Mercedes W218 CLS Grille Guide: AMG Look vs Diamond, 2012–2014 Fitment

If the W219 CLS introduced the world to the four-door coupe concept, the W218 (2012–2014) perfected it — sharper lines, a more planted stance, and a front end that looks every bit as expensive as its window sticker suggests. When it's time to refresh that front end with a new grille, the W218 is actually one of the more straightforward chassis to shop for: one generation, one year range, two style directions. Here's everything you need to know.

W218 Fitment: 2012–2014, All Variants

The W218 CLS was produced for the North American market from 2012 through 2014. Unlike the W219 (which had a Distronic sensor situation to navigate), the W218 grille is a clean swap — no sensor cutout decisions, no year-range split. CLS350, CLS550, CLS63 AMG — they all share the same front grille aperture and mounting system.

One important note: if you have a 2015 or later CLS, that's a mid-cycle refresh with a revised front fascia — a different fitment. And if you have the earlier W219 CLS (2004–2010), see our dedicated W219 CLS Grille Guide for that chassis.

The Two Styles for W218

AMG Look Grille

A single horizontal bar with an AMG-style mesh insert — assertive, purposeful, and the most popular style choice for the W218. It gives the CLS a more athletic look while staying true to the car's aggressive-but-elegant design language. This is the go-to if you want your CLS to read "sport" without going full chrome diamond.

Works for both CLS350 and CLS550 owners looking for a sportier presence, and for CLS63 AMG owners who need a direct replacement.

→ AMG Look Grille — W218 CLS (2012–2014)

Diamond Grille

Diamond-pattern mesh insert, modern and distinctive. The Diamond grille is a bolder style statement — it moves away from the traditional horizontal-bar look toward something more contemporary. If you want your W218 to stand out from the standard CLS appearance, the Diamond is a strong choice. The pattern is open enough to maintain adequate airflow and creates a striking front-end presence, especially in direct light.

→ Diamond Grille — W218 CLS (2012–2014)

Which Style is Right for You?

• Want the sportiest, most AMG-aligned look? → AMG Look Grille. It's the natural evolution of the W218's own design language.
• Want something more distinctive and modern? → Diamond Grille. A head-turner that sets your CLS apart from others in traffic.
• Replacing a worn or damaged factory grille? → Both are direct bolt-ons. The AMG Look is closer to the factory appearance on AMG Line models.

Installation

W218 grille installation is a direct clip-and-bolt swap — no cutting, no modifications. Push-pin clips along the top and two bolts secure the assembly. Plan for 30–45 minutes. If you're coming from a factory grille on a non-AMG car, the new grille will fit identically into the same mounting points.

FAQ: W218 CLS Grille Fitment

Will these fit a CLS63 AMG?
Yes — the CLS63 AMG uses the same front fascia and grille aperture as the CLS350 and CLS550. Both styles are direct fits.

What about the 2015+ CLS?
The 2015 facelift brought a revised front bumper. Those are a different fitment and not covered by either style listed here.

Can I go back to stock later?
Yes — the factory grille bolts back on using the same mounting points. Save your original if you want that option.

Do these come with the Mercedes star emblem?
Check the individual product listings — star inclusion varies by style. If needed, a separate emblem can be sourced independently.

Browse the full W218 CLS grille collection (2012–2014).

Also see our grille guides for the W219 CLS, W221 S-Class, R170 SLK, and W204 C-Class & C63 AMG — the same fitment-first approach, applied to each chassis.