2007-2008 Mercedes-Benz CL-Class: Full Review
Updated: 11/23/08
2008 Mercedes-Benz CL-Class
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2007-2008 Mercedes-Benz CL-Class ▼
- Price Range: $76,000 - $151,700
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Learn about the year-to-year changes and reliability for the 2007-2008 Mercedes-Benz CL-Class and our price chart details a range of prices based on vehicle mileage and condition.
Pros
- Seat comfort (front)
- Acceleration
- Ride
- Handling
- Quietness
- Interior materials
Cons
- Fuel economy
- Rear-seat room
- Cargo room
Vehicle Highlights
Mercedes redesigned its flagship rear-wheel-drive coupe for 2007, giving it fresh looks, more power, and added safety features. The 2007 CL-Class was about 3 inches longer in wheelbase and overall length than the 2000-2006 generation. This coupe shared its basic design with the Mercedes S-Class full-size sedan. Two models were offered. The CL550 had a 382-horsepower V8 and seven-speed automatic transmission; it replaced the 302-hp CL500. As before, the CL600 had a turbocharged V12 and five-speed automatic, but now issued 510 horsepower versus 493. Antilock braking, traction/antiskid control, front and rear side airbags, and curtain side airbags were standard. Newly standard was Mercedes' Pre-Safe system that tightened seatbelts and applied additional braking force if sensors detected an impending collision. All CLs had Mercedes' COMAND system, which incorporated a video screen and console-mounted "joystick" knob to control audio, navigation, phone, and other functions; it also accepted voice commands. Newly standard on all CLs were rear obstacle detection and wireless cell phone link. Standard on the CL600 and optional for the CL550 was Mercedes' infrared Night View Assist, which projected onto an instrument panel screen a black-and-white image of objects beyond headlight range. ivals included the BMW 6-Series and Jaguar XK-Series.
Expert Ratings Summary (view detailed report)
| Category | CL550 Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 8 | |
| Fuel Economy | 3 | |
| Ride Quality | 10 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 8 | |
| Quietness | 9 | |
| Controls/Materials | 8 | |
| Interior Room | 10 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 2 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 3 | |
| Value within Class | 4 | |
| Total Score: | 65 |
Learn about the year-to-year changes of the 2007-2008 Mercedes-Benz CL-Class. Get full details of the styling and performance changes throughout the history of the 2007-2008 Mercedes-Benz CL-Class.
Year to Year Changes
2008 Mercedes-Benz S-Class/CL-Class:
Two new models joined the lineup for 2008, both tuned by Mercedes' high-performance AMG division. Beneath the CL63 hood sat a 518-horsepower, 6.2-liter V8, accompanied by specific suspension tuning and exterior trim. The CL65 got a super-powered 6.0-liter V12, rated at 604 horsepower. A five-speed automatic transmission worked with the CL65, while the V8-powered CL63 used a seven-speed automatic.
Our road test for the 2007-2008 Mercedes-Benz CL-Class includes a full evaluation from the inside out. We've evaluated every aspect of the 2007-2008 Mercedes-Benz CL-Class and highlighted the vehicle's performance with pros and cons. Use our comprehensive road test ratings to decide if this generation 2007-2008 Mercedes-Benz CL-Class is right for you.
Consumer Guide® Road-Test Evaluation
Power delivery across the CL-Class lineup ranges from ample in the CL550 to outright ferocious in the CL65. Expect plenty of punch for highway passing and merging, and the CL65 has no evident turbo lag. Mercedes-Benz said the CL550 accelerated to 60 mph in 5.3 seconds, with the CL65 needing a mere 4.2 seconds. Both of those figures seem accurate. In the CL550 and CL65, the transmission is occasionally slow to downshift, but is otherwise smooth and responsive. Fuel economy is not a CL-Class virtue. A test CL550 coupe averaged just 14.8 mpg. All models require premium-grade fuel. Ride quality scores high. All CL-Class models have firm suspension tuning, but virtually all harshness is filtered out-even in the sport-tuned CL65. The CL550 suffers a trace of floatiness, when the driver-adjustable suspension is set in Comfort mode. Despite their size and heft, CLs are reassuringly stable when cornering, and when traveling at high speeds. The CL65 has the sharpest moves of the group. Standard Active Body Control further enhances agility. Powerful brakes provide short, drama-free emergency stops. Whether V8 or V12, Mercedes' engines produce classy, mechanical sounds during acceleration and are nearly silent while cruising. The CL's slippery shape means minimal wind noise. Tire roar is more evident on the CL65 than the CL550, due to the former model's high-performance treads. Most major controls are logically positioned and easy to reach. Mercedes' COMAND system integrates many audio, navigation, and other secondary controls into a single rotary-knob controlled interface. With patience, COMAND becomes second nature for audio functions, but greatly complicates others. Though understated, the CL's cabin is appointed with luxurious, top-notch materials. Assembly quality is simply flawless. Front space is generous on CL's broad, supportive seats. Multiple standard power adjustments make it easy to find a comfortable driving position. Heated and cooled seats, "massaging" air bladders, and automatic-inflating side bolsters have been standard or available, but not all of our test-drivers feel they enhance comfort. Rear seats are shaped only for two, and cramped for even average-size adults. Entry and exit are tight despite power-forward front seats. Although the trunk is not cavernous, it has a useful shape and is luxuriously finished. Interior storage includes deep door pockets, a multi-chambered center console, and a large glovebox.
Value for the Money
Any CL-Class is very pricey when new or even secondhand, but all of these coupes are brimming with power, technology, and luxury. For the well-heeled shopper with little use for a rear seat, these well-crafted two-doors are a wonderful indulgence.
Any CL-Class is very pricey when new or even secondhand, but all of these coupes are brimming with power, technology, and luxury. For the well-heeled shopper with little use for a rear seat, these well-crafted two-doors are a wonderful indulgence.
Expert Ratings Summary
| Category | CL550 Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 8 | |
| Fuel Economy | 3 | |
| Ride Quality | 10 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 8 | |
| Quietness | 9 | |
| Controls/Materials | 8 | |
| Interior Room | 10 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 2 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 3 | |
| Value within Class | 4 | |
| Total Score: | 65 |
Each vehicle report contains one rating chart for representative model. Consumer
Guide® rates in ten key areas: Performance, Fuel Economy, Ride Comfort, Steering
and Handling, Interior Noise, Controls and Materials, Driver Room, Passenger Room,
Cargo Capacity, and Insurance Costs. These ratings compare the particular vehicle
rated to ALL other vehicles, not a vehicle's standing in a particular class. In the
ratings table, "1" is the lowest rating and "10" is the highest rating.
Our reliability study for this generation Mercedes-Benz S-Class/CL-Class includes details on average repair costs, manufacturer recalls, and everything you need to know to gauge the long-term reliability of this generation Mercedes-Benz S-Class/CL-Class .
Trouble Spots
Consumer Guide's® Auto Editors have scoured repair bulletins and questioned mechanics to search
for commonly occurring problems for a particular vehicle. In some cases we also give possible manufacturer-suggested
solutions. In many instances these trouble spots are Technical Service Bulletins posted by the manufacturer,
however, we have our own expert looking at additional vehicle problems.
Blower motor:
The blower may not run when first turned on, but may start running after hitting a bump due to a bad blower motor. (2007-08)
None:
A chirping noise, similar to a drive belt noise, may come from under the hood due to a defective pump for the active body control system. (2007-08)
Seat:
The multi-contour seat cushions on some cars may inflate or deflate even though the driver has not made any inputs, requiring an updated electronic module for which there was a service campaign. (2007-08)
Water leak:
Water may leak into the trunk because the plugs sealing the holes in the deck lid may not seal sufficiently. (2007-08)
Windshield washer:
The low washer fluid may illuminate if distilled or deionized water is used instead of tap water. (2007-08)
Consumer Guide® Estimated Repair Costs
This table lists costs of likely repairs for comparison with other vehicles. The
dollar amount includes the cost of the part(s) and labor (based on $50 per hour) for the
typical repair without extras or add-ons. Like the pricing information, replacement
costs can vary widely depending on region. Expect charges at a new-car dealership
to be slightly higher.
| Item Name | Repair Cost |
| A/C Compressor | $1,360 |
| Alternator | $1,160 |
| Automatic Transmission or Transaxle | $4,950 |
| Brakes | $940 |
| Constant Velocity Joints | $3,950 |
| Exhaust System | $1,390 |
| Radiator | $1,580 |
| Shocks and/or Struts | $3,810 |
| Timing Chain or Belt | $2,350 |
Our price chart for this generation Mercedes-Benz S-Class/CL-Class details a range of prices in
year-by-year listings based on vehicle mileage and condition.
| Prices | Good | Average | Poor |
|
|
|||
| 2008 | |||
| CL550 | $90,000-95,000 | $85,500-90,300 | $69,300-73,200 |
| CL600 | $110,000-115,000 | $104,500-109,300 | $97,900-102,400 |
| CL63 | $105,000-110,000 | $99,800-104,500 | $81,900-85,800 |
| CL65 | $150,000-158,000 | $144,000-151,700 | $118,500-124,800 |
| 2007 | |||
| CL550 | $80,000-84,000 | $76,000-79,800 | $61,600-64,700 |
| CL600 | $100,000-104,000 | $95,000-98,800 | $78,000-81,100 |
|
|
|||
This chart details a range of prices in year-by-year listings for vehicles in three condition levels:
Good: a clean low-mileage, solid-running vehicle that needs little or no repair.
Average: a car with normal miles on the odometer, perhaps a few scrapes or dings;
engine might need a minor repair or two, but runs acceptably well.
Poor: might have potentially dangerous problems with the engine and/or body, or
abnormally high mileage; definitely in need of mechanical attention. Valuations
reflect wholesale prices paid by dealers at auction, and retail prices on used-car
lots. Each range covers all trim levels and engine types for a vehicle with a typical
amount of equipment--usually an automatic transmission, air conditioning, stereo,
etc. Fully loaded vehicles may cost more. Average mileage is 12,000 miles per year. Keep
in mind that these are guidelines only. Actual selling prices vary- especially from
region to region.
Specs for this generation Mercedes-Benz S-Class/CL-Class include everything from fuel mileage to seating capacity to options availability.
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | 2-door coupe | |
| Wheelbase, in. | 116.3 | |
| Overall Length, in. | 199.4 | |
| Overall Width, in. | 73.7 | |
| Overall Height, in. | 55.8 | |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 4360 | |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 12.9 | |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- | |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 23.8 | |
| Seating Capacity | 4 | |
| Front Head Room, in. | 36.9 | |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 42.2 | |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 36.4 | |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | 32.2 | |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
||
Powertrain Options and Availability
In the CL550, a 5.5-liter V8 produces 382 horsepower. A 6.2-liter V8, rated at 518 horsepower, goes into the CL63. Both V8 engines mate with a seven-speed automatic transmission. A turbocharged 5.5-liter V12 and five-speed automatic go into the CL600. The CL65 gets a 604-horsepower turbo V12. Each V12 engine works with a five-speed automatic transmission.
| Engines | cu. in |
Horse- power | Torque | Transmission: |
Consumer Guide Observed |
| dohc V81 | 5.5 / 333 | 382 | 391 | 7-speed automatic: 15/22 | 7-speed automatic: 14.8 |
| dohc V81 | 6.2 / 379 | 518 | 465 | 7-speed automatic: 11/18 | 7-speed automatic: -- |
| Turbocharged ohc V121 | 5.5 / 336 | 510 | 612 | 5-speed automatic: 13/19 | 5-speed automatic: -- |
| Turbocharged ohc V121 | 6.0 / 365 | 604 | 738 | 5-speed automatic: 11/17 | 5-speed automatic: -- |
|
1. EPA Note: Figures shown are for 2008 models. The Environmental Protection Agency changed its procedure for 2008 to yield more realistic estimates. Therefore, estimated mileage is lower than for prior years. Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
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Built In: Germany
Drive Wheels: longitudinal front-engine/rear-wheel drive
Detailed safety information for this generation Mercedes-Benz S-Class/CL-Class include detailed crash test scores from the NHTSA.
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
Vehicle crash test information not available at this time.The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury: 5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Sideimpact crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%; 1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%; 2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Learn about official auto recalls, reliability issues, and vehicle problems for the 2007-2008 Mercedes-Benz CL-Class directly from the NHTSA and manufacturers.
NHTSA Recall History
2007-08 CL-Class equipped with Active Body Control (ABC) acceleration sensors on the front struts:
ABC sensors on either of the front struts may not transmit body movement data because of inconsistent soldering points. This could result in unexpected body movements at the front axle, which can adversely influence the vehicle's directional stability and could lead to a vehicle crash. Dealers will inspect and replace, if necessary, the front ABC sensors in all potentially affected vehicles.
2008 CL-Class:
Transistors in signal acquisition and actuation module (front) may have been exposed to excess moisture and could fail to function properly, increasing risk of crash.
2008:
A malfunction may occur on the Signal Acquisition and Actuation Module-Front (SAM-F) transistors. The SAM-F is a double transistor that helps control vehicle functions and the lighting of the center console. Dealers will inspect and replace all potentially affected SAM-Fs.
2008:
An incorrect software calibration number (SCN) coding received during a recent workshop visit can affect a number of functions: (1) the fuel gauge readings may be incorrect; (2) a stuck fuel-level sensor may not be displayed in the instrument cluster; (3) the check engine light may illuminate incorrectly; and, (4) the speedometer may be out of tolerance. In the event of a vehicle crash, the electrical fuel pump may not receive a crash signal that is required for the fuel pump to disconnect and prevent future fuel delivery as designed. Dealers will recode the SCN.
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