2010 Mercedes-Benz CL-Class

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Based on the S-Class platform, the 2010 Mercedes-Benz CL-Class is offered in four different versions: CL550, CL600, CL63 AMG and CL65 AMG. The CL550 4MATIC, the all-wheel-drive version, is powered by a 5.5L V8 engine producing 382 hp and 391 ft-lb of torque, with a 7-speed automatic transmission. Next up is the CL600, which gets a 5.5L V12 bi-turbo engine making 510 hp and a noteworthy 612 ft-lb of torque, paired with a 5-speed automatic.

The CL63 AMG gets a 518-hp, 6.2L V8 engine that makes 465 ft-lb of torque and is paired with a 7-speed automatic, while the top-performing CL65 AMG gets a 6.0L V12 twin-turbo AMG-built engine that makes an astounding 604 hp and 738 ft-lb of torque and can reach 60 mph in 4.2 seconds. Combined mileage is 13 mpg for all models.

Both AMG vehicles use engines that have been modified extensively for high-performance and are hand-assembled with a "one man, one engine" philosophy. AMG also equipped the cars with huge brakes and wheels to handle the extra power, plus firmer suspension damping and a specially-tuned version of the ESP stability control system.

The entire line of CL-Class coupes serves as the technological flagship of the Mercedes-Benz line, with standout features such as the sophisticated active body control suspension (standard on all models), which adjusts damping response to driving conditions. Also included is Distronic Plus cruise control, which will maintain a safe distance relative to traffic ahead, and a night-vision system that bathes the road ahead in infra-red light.

The CL550 comes standard with 18-inch alloy wheels, bi-xenon headlights, a power sunroof, 14-way power heated and active ventilated front seats, power door and trunk closers, park assist, keyless ignition and entry, a hard-drive-based navigation system, Bluetooth connectivity and a 600-watt Harman Kardon audio system with 6-disc CD/DVD changer and satellite radio. Options include a Sport package with 19-inch wheels and the Premium 2 package, which includes rearview camera, nighttime vision assist system and Drive Dynamic front seats.

The CL600 includes all the standard features on the CL550 plus the Premium 2 package and adds a heated steering wheel and the Mercedes Distronic Plus system, which includes adaptive cruise control, brake assist, parking guidance and a blind spot detection system. Stand-alone options include an iPod integration kit and 19-inch wheels.

AMG versions offer unique exterior enhancements, sport-tuned suspensions, high-performance brakes, 20-inch wheels and AMG multi-contour leather sport seats. The CL63 AMG comes standard with all the features found on the CL550 plus AMG active suspension, leather steering wheel with aluminum shift paddles and Drive Dynamic seats. An optional AMG performance package adds lighter, twin-spoke 20-inch wheels, carbon fiber trim and a higher top speed of 186 mph. The CL65 AMG includes all the standard features found on other models plus the Distronic Plus system, the Premium 2 package and the AMG performance package. The CL65 AMG comes with special leather sport seats and diamond cross-stitching on the seats and door panels.

Standard safety features include a full complement of airbags, adaptive xenon headlights and stability control. The brakes utilize Mercedes's PreSafe system, which, when it senses a possible accident, will automatically apply up to 40% of the vehicle's braking capacity, while also positioning the front passenger seat for optimal airbag use. It will also close the windows and sunroof if a rollover is imminent. In addition, the brake lights flash rapidly during emergency braking to help prevent rear-end collisions.
For 2010, the Mercedes CL-Class carries over largely unchanged, though updates include a new direct-steer system, improved selection of Sport mode for the transmission and suspension, and new mirrors with arrow-shaped LED indicators. Multi-color ambient lighting is available, as is Night View Assist PLUS with pedestrian detection and Active Body Control (ABC) with crosswind stabilization. Palladium Silver is a new exterior color.
Grand Touring style and comfort; strong performance; interior technology; ultimate luxury
The CL-Class cars are the ultimate combination of luxury sedan and race-qualifying performance. The CL-Class boasts the same elegant, luxurious interior design as the S-Class sedan, with ample leathers, refined wood and metallic trim all part of its exquisite finish. The top-performance AMG versions, the CL63 and CL65, appeal to those who value exclusivity and lap times yet still want the comforts of a true luxury vehicle. Ultimately, little comes close to the CL65 AMG with an engine capable of 604 horsepower and 738 foot-pounds of torque, it offers unparalleled power and performance to go along with the ultimate in luxury.