Mercedes-Benz CL-Class Review

2008 Mercedes-Benz CL-Class CL600 Coupe Shown

The Mercedes-Benz CL-Class is a rare animal in the automotive kingdom; a large luxury coupe capable of seating two rear passengers while simultaneously shoving them into their seatbacks with abundant power. Other two-doors can boast either of these, but the CL manages both and features sumptuous leather-adorned interiors to boot. Now in its fourth generation, the CL has undergone a few name changes over the years, but it has continuously maintained its status as Mercedes' quintessential large luxury coupe.

Whether it was called 560SEC or S500 coupe, the CL-Class has essentially been a two-door version of the Mercedes-Benz flagship sedan -- today's S-Class. Although the CL now ventures a little farther from momma in terms of styling, it has retained its close family ties. As in the past, the two vehicles share similar interior design, features and engine options. Since it's based on such a large sedan, the CL is more of an autobahn-storming, boulevard-cruising luxo coupe, rather than a road-carving GT like a BMW 6 Series or Jaguar XKR.

Current Mercedes-Benz CL-Class

The current Mercedes-Benz CL-Class first donned its pretty face (and tail) as a 2007 model following the successful launch of the recently redesigned S-Class. Like the Benz flagship sedan, the CL is crammed full of the latest and greatest safety, comfort and entertainment technologies the engineering wizards from Stuttgart have been able to craft. The CL ventures farther from the S-Class than past generations in terms of exterior styling, featuring curvier, more muscular lines than its subdued predecessor. It also grew slightly in length, width and height versus the previous CL, while remaining 5 inches shorter than the S-Class. This girth makes the CL much larger and hundreds of pounds heavier than its closest competitors.

There are three trim levels and engines: CL550 (382-horsepower V8), CL600 (510-hp V12) and CL63 AMG (514-hp V8). A seven-speed automatic transmission is standard on the V8-powered models, while a more robust five-speed auto is standard on the torque-rich V12. Highlights for the CL550 include 18-inch wheels, 14-way power front seats with heat and memory, a hard-drive-based navigation system, Bluetooth phone connectivity and an 11-speaker surround-sound system with a hard drive capable of storing MP3 files. There are also a full array of Mercedes' latest high-tech safety features should all that high-speed fun come to an abrupt stop.

Standard features on the CL600, and options on the CL550, include Keyless Go entry and exit, cooled front seats, infrared night vision system and Distronic Plus adaptive cruise control that can automatically accelerate and brake even in stop-and-go traffic. The CL63 AMG is equipped more like the CL550, but focuses on performance with unique exterior enhancements, a sport-tuned suspension, high-performance brakes and AMG multicontour leather sport seats.

In our reviews, we were impressed by the CL's striking appearance, top-quality interiors, competent handling and three thumping engines. We had a tough time finding anything wrong with the CL550 and as the model number rose, so did our appreciation -- especially of the CL600's V12 that pumps out a whopping 612 pound-feet of torque. In fact, one of the only complaints was that the long doors make it difficult to exit in small parking spaces. But chances are, you'll be parking this stunning $100,000-plus Mercedes coupe as far away from other vehicles as possible.

Past Mercedes-Benz CL-Class Models

The third-generation Mercedes-Benz CL-Class produced from 2000-'06 was lighter, less expensive and much sleeker than its massive, brick-shaped predecessor. The CL500, powered by a 302-hp V8, was the only model offered initially, with the 362-hp, V12-powered CL600 and the 354-hp, V8-powered CL55 AMG arriving in 2001. As usual, Mercedes used the CL to showcase its latest technologies such as Active Body Control, Distronic adaptive cruise control and PreSafe (for 2003). Mercedes also used '03 to introduce the now-turbocharged CL600 and now-supercharged CL55 AMG, both pumping out 493 hp. The CL500 added a seven-speed automatic transmission in 2004, while an AMG Sport Package was added to the CL500 and CL600 as standard equipment for this generation's last year.

With many of these cars available as "certified pre-owned" (meaning a pristine, lower-mileage example with all maintenance up to date and an extended warranty), this generation represents the best choice for a consumer looking to get into a Benz CL-Class that should serve them for a long time without their having to spend a small fortune. At the time, our editors were impressed with its powerful engine choices, dizzying array of high-tech features, classic styling and comfortable long-distance cruising ability. We weren't fond of its complex COMAND navigation and audio system, and found the rear seat to be cramped.

The second-generation Mercedes-Benz CL-Class had a slight identity crisis, beginning its life as the 500SEC and 600SEC in 1993, changing into the S-Class Coupe in 1994 and finally settling with today's CL-Class moniker in 1998. Its sturdy, boxlike body changed very little during its run, giving it a strong resemblance to the S-Class/500SEL. It was offered with a 315-hp V8 and a new 389-hp V12 engine, neither of which changed during this generation's lifespan. As with today's generation, our editors couldn't find much to fault about this generation with its ample combination of size, luxury and power. Its blocky styling did not age well, however, and its huge price tag led us to suggest taking a look at cheaper alternatives.

The original flagship sedan-based Mercedes-Benz luxury coupe was known as the SEC, which lived from 1981-'91. The 1986-'91 editions had a 238-hp, 5.6-liter V8, whereas the prior years were underpowered with a 3.8-liter, 155-hp V8. With its especially commodious rear seat, the 560SEC was actually considered a two-door sedan. This generation was also one of the first vehicles to offer airbags, antilock brakes, traction control and a self-leveling suspension.

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* Edmunds.com maintains vehicle data as far back as 1990.