2011 Mercedes-Benz CL-Class

The new CL-Class comes in CL550 4Matic, CL600 and CL63 AMG models. The CL550 is now powered by a new 4.7-liter bi-turbo V8 engine that makes 529 horsepower. The 2011 Mercedes-Benz CL63 AMG gets a new 5.5-liter bi-turbo V8 that makes 536 horsepower and 590 pound-feet of torque. The flagship CL600 includes a 510-hp V12 that makes 612 lb-ft of torque and can blast the CL to 60 mph in just 4.5 seconds. The very exclusive CL65 AMG includes a 621-hp version of the V12. With an optional AMG Performance Package, the CL63's engine gets a power bump to 563 hp and 664 lb-ft and makes that the choice for any who plan to bring this big luxury coupe out for track time.

The CL550 4Matic has a 7-speed automatic transmission that now includes Direct-Select manual shift control via shift-paddles, along with Sport and Economy modes. AMG models get a different transmission entirely--a 7-speed Speedshift MCT sports transmission that uses multiple clutches and matches revs on downshifts.

Both engines are completely new designs, using direct gasoline injection, bi-turbos and a stop-start system to help save fuel. The system automatically turns the engine off at stoplights and the seamlessly restarts it when the brake pedal lifts. With either of the powertrains, acceleration is smooth and seamless, and it's very easy to break speed limits without knowing it because of the isolated, refined character of the coupe.

The CL-Class also has a Direct-Steer system that works together with Active Body Control (ABC) to help provide pillowy ride comfort during relaxed cruising, tighter body control for curvy roads, and even adaptive operation for crosswinds.

Appearance-wise, the CL-Class has a new front bumper with three air intakes, a new chrome strip and an LED light strip. Sheet metal has been slightly reshaped as well. Inside, the CL has plush, soft leather seats and a choice of four different trim themes. Wood trims are hand crafted and from renewable forestry sources. And inside, the ambient lighting system allows solar, neutral, and polar hues. AMG models include special sport seats with heating and ventilation, while massage and dynamic features are optional.

Along with luxury, the CL-Class is a flagship for top technology and safety features, including Active Lane Keeping Assist, Active Blind Spot Assist (to help spot adjacent vehicles). Bi-xenon headlamps are standard with smart Adaptive Highbeam Assist to automatically adjust them to the conditions and oncoming traffic. Also standard in the CL-Class is Attention Assist, which evaluates steering movements and provides a warning if it thinks the driver is falling asleep.

The CL-Class offers the latest COMAND screen-based interface atop the instrument panel, including voice control and a navigation system that stores data on a 40-GB hard drive. The harman/kardon sound system in the CL-Class includes an iPod interface, USB and SD capability, Sirius Satellite Radio and HD Radio, along with 7.2 GB of music storage and a Gracenote database to display clean song information.
The big, luxurious Mercedes-Benz CL-Class coupes have been revised for 2011, with a new grille and taillight design, as well as revised sheetmetal for a slightly different look. But the major news is that two all-new direct-injection bi-turbo V8 engines--a 4.6L and a special high-performance AMG 5.5L--make their U.S. debut in the CL-Class, bringing improved performance and fuel economy. Both engines are matched to a retuned 7-speed automatic transmission and the base CL550 model now comes with 4MATIC. Automatic engine stop/start, allowing the engine to turn off to save fuel at stoplights, has also been added to the top-of-the-line CL63. Mercedes-Benz has also made Adaptive Highbeam Assist standard and made Active Blind Spot Assist standard on V12 models and optional on V8 models. Attention Assist is also now a standard feature.
Strong, refined engines; very quick acceleration; useful active-safety features; AMG models' supercar performance with top-notch luxury; exclusivity
The 2011 Mercedes-Benz CL-Class has blistering acceleration, enough comfort inside for a cross-country trip, a host of industry leading tech features and exclusivity.