Mercedes-Benz CLS Body Kit Review: Sporty Upgrade
Service Price
$75–115
Estimated price · Actual price may vary by shop
Mercedes-Benz CLS 450 aero kit installation with vertical grille & 53 AMG diffuser: ~$75-115. Enhances sporty appeal.
Transform Your Mercedes-Benz CLS 450 with a Sporty Aero Kit
Are you looking to elevate the sporty appeal of your Mercedes-Benz CLS 450? While the CLS boasts inherent luxury, adding a custom touch with a vertical grille and a 53 AMG-style diffuser can significantly enhance its unique character. This modification focuses on the vehicle's front and rear aesthetics, creating a more aggressive and dynamic presence on the road. This review explores the impact of such an aero kit installation, detailing the before and after transformations, the installation process, and whether it's a worthwhile upgrade for your CLS 450.
Before & After: The Dramatic Impact of Aero Kit Installation
The visual difference after installing a body kit, specifically a vertical grille and a 53 AMG-style diffuser, on a Mercedes-Benz CLS 450 is striking. The front grille is often the first thing people notice, and the vertical slat design of the new grille accentuates the CLS 450's sharp lines, giving it a more commanding and assertive look. Complementing this, the 53 AMG-style rear diffuser adds a muscular, performance-oriented stance, akin to reinforcing the car's lower body. This combination creates a cohesive and significantly sportier silhouette, boosting the vehicle's overall visual appeal and presence. The attention to detail in fitting these parts ensures a seamless integration with the existing bodywork, making the car appear as if it left the factory with these aggressive enhancements.
Professional Body Kit Installation: Precision and Durability
Achieving the best results from a body kit installation hinges on professional execution, ensuring not just aesthetics but also the preservation of original functions and a flawless fit. The process for a CLS 450 typically involves careful removal of the original front bumper to install the new vertical grille. During this stage, sensitive components like the Distronic sensors and cameras must be meticulously handled. Using a dedicated work area and lift helps prevent scratches to the bumper. Post-installation, thorough testing is crucial to confirm that all sensors are functioning correctly without any errors. For the rear, while the bumper might not always need removal for diffuser installation, the installer's skill is paramount. Precise alignment, down to millimeters, is required for the diffuser and exhaust tips to ensure perfect symmetry and a flush fit. It's important to note that the diffuser and exhaust tips often come as a set and cannot be installed separately. This meticulous approach to body kit installation ensures longevity and maintains the vehicle's sophisticated appeal.
Installation Process:
- Carefully remove the front bumper, paying close attention to delicate sensors and cameras.
- Install the new vertical grille, ensuring a secure fit and proper alignment.
- Reinstall the front bumper, followed by a comprehensive sensor functionality test.
- For the rear, precisely position and secure the 53 AMG-style diffuser and exhaust tips for perfect symmetry.
The estimated cost for such a body kit installation in Korea can range from approximately ₩750,000 to ₩1,150,000 (roughly $75–$115 USD, though exchange rates vary). This price reflects the specialized labor and quality of the parts involved in achieving a factory-level finish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. How much does a body kit cost for a Mercedes-Benz CLS?
The body kit installation for this Mercedes-Benz CLS 450, including a vertical grille and 53 AMG diffuser, was approximately ₩750,000 to ₩1,150,000 in Korea. In the US, similar aero kit installations can range from $750 to $3,000+ depending on the kit's complexity and brand.
Q. How long does body kit installation take on a Mercedes-Benz CLS?
Body kit installations on a Mercedes-Benz CLS typically require careful attention to detail and can take several hours to a full day. Proper maintenance involves regular cleaning and inspection for any signs of damage or loose fittings to ensure long-term durability.
Q. Is a body kit worth it for a Mercedes-Benz CLS?
A body kit is worth considering for a Mercedes-Benz CLS if you desire a more personalized and aggressive aesthetic. It offers a significant visual upgrade that can enhance the car's sporty character and potentially its resale value among enthusiasts.
Q. How is a body kit installed on a Mercedes-Benz CLS?
Installation involves carefully removing the original bumpers to fit new components like grilles and diffusers. Sensitive sensors are protected, and parts are precisely aligned before reassembly, followed by thorough testing of all electronic systems.
Q. What is the difference between FRP and polyurethane body kits for a Mercedes-Benz CLS?
Polyurethane kits are generally more flexible, durable, and impact-resistant, making them ideal for daily driving and less prone to cracking. FRP (Fiber Reinforced Plastic) kits can be lighter and more affordable but are often more brittle and susceptible to damage from impacts.
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