Major Options:  Distronic Plus, Heated Steering Wheel, Premium II Package (Dynamic Rear View Monitor, Active Ventilated Front Seats, Night View Assist, Keyless Go), Gas Guzzler Tax

Consumer Guide® Fuel Economy:  15.95 mpg (what's this?)

Problems During Test: None

From The Back Seat
Chuck Giametta 8- Of course, it's folly to attempt to justify $111,000 for a four-place automobile. But this ratings category compares it against others in the class, and no rival at this strata (BMW 6-Series, Jaguar XK-R) matches the CL 550 for room, comfort, poise, or ease of everyday use. This is a wonderful automotive accomplishment, a car that doesn't chase fashion and whose all-around greatness will not dim with the years.

Damon Bell The uber-spendy '07 CL550 bristles with some complicated luxury gadgetry that takes getting used to. However, in road manners, power, and overall refinement, it remains at the top if its rarefied class.

John Biel If you must have your sybaritic luxuries and techno toys bound in a stylish wrapper, then a CL hardtop coupe is the ticket. Materials and assembly are excellent, and the powertrain is terrific--even at "only" 382 horsepower. Rear-seat practicality isn't as good as in an S-Class sedan--obviously--but it's hardly embarrassingly skimpy, either. This is a legitimate four-passenger car that's dressed to impress as it effortlessly eats up highway miles.

Tom Appel I'm not sure I've ever done anything cool enough to justify this sort of indulgence. But if you just took the company public and your options are worth cashing in, few cars satisfy with like these big coupes. If my budget allowed for a third car in the $110,000 range, CL would be on my list.