The 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL-Class consists of four models: The CL550 4MATIC ($107,900) is powered by a 382-horsepower 5.5-liter V8. The CL600 ($151,900) packs a 510-horsepower twin-turbocharged 5.5-liter V12. The CL63 AMG ($142,700) has a 6.2-liter V8 that develops 518 horsepower. And the CL65 AMG ($203,700) has 604 horsepower and a stupendous 738 pound-feet of torque from a 6.0-liter twin-turbo V12. All are subject to the federally imposed Gas Guzzler Tax, ranging from $1,300 upward.
Standard CL equipment is comprehensive. The seats, doors and instrument panel are all leather covered, and burled walnut wood trim is used liberally. The front seats are 14-way adjustable and heated, and have a three-setting memory capability that also sets the electrically telescoping-and-tilting steering wheel and side mirrors.
The standard audio system is a harman/kardon Logic7 5.1 Digital unit with 11 speakers and a six-CD in-dash changer (with memory card slot). Sirius satellite radio is standard. There's a power sunroof overhead and a power rear-window sunblind in the rear parcel shelf. Doors have power assist closing mechanisms, and the trunk is electrically powered.
The Mercedes COMAND system, a centralized computer interface with a dash-mounted flat panel screen, is also standard. It enables access to many of the car's accessories including GPS navigation, phone, climate controls, and other customizable features (exterior courtesy lights, seat settings and voice command setup). Bi-Xenon headlights are standard, too, as is Parktronic, a distance sensing parking aid. All CLs are equipped with ABC active suspension, which utilizes electro-hydraulic cylinders to control body roll and some damping functions.
The optional Premium 2 Package ($3370) for the CL550 4MATIC includes heated and ventilated front seats, a keyless entry system, multi-adjustable front seats fitted with pneumatic chambers that adjust cushion firmness and lumbar support, a night vision system with an in-dash screen, and a rear backup camera. A heated steering wheel ($470) is also available. A Sport Package ($5690) adds special aerodynamic pieces and larger, 19-inch wheels (18-inch wheels are standard). Or choose 19-inch wheels by themselves ($1230).
The CL63 AMG has the heated steering wheel, and the body kit, and includes 20-inch wheels as standard; Premium 2 equipment is optional ($2120). Optional for both V8 models are Distronic Plus distance monitoring cruise control with Parking Guidance and Blind Spot Assist ($2880), and an iPod integration kit ($425). Buyers seeking even more exclusivity can choose among two designo edition combinations of exterior color and interior leather and trim (Espresso or Graphite).
Most of the above are standard on the CL600. The only options it offers are the iPod kit, the two optional wheel choices, and the designo editions. Ditto the CL65 AMG, except that it, like the CL63 AMG, already comes with 20-inch wheels.
Safety features on all CLs include a pair of two-stage front airbags, a driver's-side knee airbag, two front side airbags, two rear side airbags, and side head-curtain airbags for front and rear passengers. There are seatbelt pre-tensioners for the front passengers' belts. Windows close automatically in a crash, and a sunroof closing feature activates in rollovers. Also standard: ABS with electronic brake-force distribution and automatic wet-weather drying, dynamic stability control, traction control, and Distronic cruise control. Optional safety equipment includes Distronic Plus distance-sensing cruise control with Parking Guidance and Blind Spot Assist.