2009 Mercedes-Benz CL-Class: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

The 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL-Class lineup gains all-wheel drive as a new feature. The CL550 and CL63 use V8 engines of 5.5 and 6.2 liters, respectively. CL600 and CL65 versions have V12 engines of 5.5 and 6.0 liters, respectively. All CLs have an automatic transmission: 7 speeds on the CL550 and CL63, 5 speeds on the CL600 and CL65. For 2009, the CL550 is newly standard with Mercedes' 4MATIC all-wheel drive; the rear-drive CL550 has been discontinued. All other CL-Class models are rear-drive only. CL-Class is essentially a 2-door coupe version of the 4-door S-Class sedan. Available safety equipment includes ABS, traction control, antiskid system, front and rear side airbags, and curtain side airbags. The 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL-Class has a standard navigation system and wireless cell-phone link. All models now have steering-wheel gearshift paddles. Mercedes' Parking Guidance system--which assists drivers with parallel parking maneuvers--is now available. Also available for 2009 is the company's Blind Spot Assist, which alerts drivers to the presence of another vehicle in their blind spot.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 classes based on size, price, and market position. Premium Large Cars are top-of-the-line sedans in size and luxury. Many are manufacturer flagships and/or showcases for the newest automotive technology. Some have six-figure price tags.

Our Best Buys are the Mercedes-Benz S-Class and Lexus LS. Our Recommended picks are the Audi A8, Cadillac DTS, and Hyundai Genesis.

New or significantly redesigned models include the BMW 7-Series, Hyundai Genesis, and Lincoln MKS.