2009 Mercedes-Benz CL-Class: Road Test
2009 Mercedes-Benz CL-Class ▼
Select a Trim ▼
- MSRP: $107,900 - $203,700
- Invoice: $100,347 - $189,441
Features & Specifications
Compare Vehicle
Related to Mercedes-Benz S-Class/CL-Class
Previous Year's Reviews
View Another Vehicle
Our road test for the 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL-Class includes a full evaluation of the 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL-Class from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL-Class, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL-Class help you decide if a 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL-Class is right for you.
Advertisement
ACCELERATION
| CL63 | CL65 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 9 | 10 | 7.2 |
No AWD CL550 or any CL600 has been made available for testing so far. Power delivery in the CL63 is more than ample, and is outright ferocious in the CL65. Highway passing and merging are strong, and the CL65 has no evident turbo lag. Mercedes-Benz says the CL63 does 0-60 mph in 4.5 seconds, and the CL65 just 4.2. The CL63 time feels slightly optimistic to us. The transmission is occasionally slow to downshift but is otherwise smooth and responsive.
FUEL ECONOMY
| CL63 | CL65 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | 1 | 3.8 |
In Consumer Guide testing, a CL63 averaged 16.0 mpg with more highway driving than city use. All CL-Class cars require premium-grade gas.
RIDE QUALITY
| CL63 | CL65 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 9 | 9 | 7.9 |
All CL-Class models have firm suspension tuning, but virtually all harshness is filtered out--even in the sport-tuned CL63 and CL65.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| CL63 | CL65 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 9 | 9 | 6.6 |
Despite their size and heft, CLs are reassuringly stable when cornering and when traveling at high speeds. Standard Active Body Control further enhances agility. Powerful brakes provide short, drama-free emergency stops.
QUIETNESS
| CL63 | CL65 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 8.1 |
The 6.2 V8 and turbo V12 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 minimally intrusive on the CL63 and CL65, even with those models' high-performance treads.
CONTROLS
| CL63 | CL65 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 6.2 |
Most major controls are logically placed 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 it greatly complicates others.
DETAILS
| CL63 | CL65 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 10 | 10 | 8.2 |
Though understated, the CL's cabin is appointed with luxurious, top-notch materials. Assembly quality is flawless.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| CL63 | CL65 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 10 | 10 | 8.5 |
Space is generous on CL's broad, supportive seats. Multiple standard power adjustments make it easy to find a comfortable driving position. Heated and ventilated seats, "massaging" air bladders, and automatic-inflating side bolsters are standard or available, but not all of our testers feel they enhance comfort.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| CL63 | CL65 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 2 | 2 | 7.6 |
The rear seat is shaped only for two and cramped for even average-size adults. Entry and exit is tight despite power-forward front seats.
CARGO ROOM
| CL63 | CL65 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | 3 | 4.1 |
The trunk is not cavernous, but it has a useful shape and is luxuriously finished. Interior storage includes deep door pockets, multi-chambered center console, and a large glovebox.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| CL63 | CL65 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | 2 | 6.2 |
Any CL-Class is very pricey, but they're all brimming with power, technology, and luxury. For the well-heeled shopper with little use for a rear seat, these well-crafted coupes are a wonderful indulgence.
Total Score
| CL63 | CL65 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 71 | 69 | 74.4 |
Total Score: 70
Scores for all Premium Large Cars
Next Step: Get a price quote from your local dealer ►
