2008 Mercedes-Benz CL-Class in Raleigh, NC - $13,788

Recalling the glorious Mercedes coupes of the past while engineering a vehicle platform years ahead of its time, Mercedes-Benz offers motorists the ultimate coupe -- the rear-drive CL Class. Based on the large S-Class sedan platform, the limited-production CL-Class features a unique two-door premium coupe design.

Available in CL550 and CL600 models, the big news for 2008 is the addition of two hot models from the company's AMG high-performance division –- the CL63 AMG and the no-holes barred CL65 AMG. In recognition of AMG's 40th anniversary, 40 of the CL65 AMG coupes will be produced as 40th Anniversary Editions, with only 20 coupes destined for the US market.

The CL65 AMG 40th Anniversary Edition coupe is the first-ever production car finished in exclusive AMG Liquid metal paint. Stretched over the body like a metallic skin, AMG Liquid Metal shows off the compelling lines of the large coupe better than any conventional paint.

Base power for the CL-Class coupe is generated by a 5.5 V8 or a twin-turbocharged V12 prime mover of the same displacement. The CL63 AMG is powered by a hand-built 6.3L V8, while the ultimate performance-oriented CL65 AMG is equipped with a 6.0L V12 twin-turbo prime mover.

It takes a technologically advabced transmission to handle all the torque this trio generates. Mercedes-Benz engineers answered the challenge with a seven-speed electronically-controlled automatic gearbox with adaptive shift logic and Touch Shift manual control. A five-speed electronically-controlled gearbox with adaptive shift logic and Touch Shift control is offered for the CL600 while the CL65 is also equipped with a version of the seven-speed automatic. The CL63 and CL65 AMG models add SpeedShift programming and selectable manual control to the mix.

Described by the automaker as a two-door, four-passenger pillarless coupe, space will not allow a list of all the technology that Mercedes-Benz engineered into this vehicle. Be sure to have an inhaler and nitroglycerin pills handy when taking this coupe for a test drive.

A sophisticated, powerful techie-mobile, the CL-Class coupe is fast, solid and very comfortable. The full independent four-link front suspension and Mercedes-Benz patented five-link rear suspension are just the beginning of the handling and performance story. The Active Body Control (ABC) active suspension system is the shining star of this car, like ABC's are to a kindergartner.

Twenty years of research and development produced a system that virtually eliminates body roll in cornering squat under acceleration and dive during braking. Hydraulic, electronic and mechanical components work together to reduce body roll by 68 percent -- without eliminating driver feedback. A Sport switch on the dash can increase this to a 95 percent reduction if sportier handling, is desired. ABC eliminates the tradeoff of ride comfort vs. handling precision. With ABC -- now a driver can have both.

The passenger cabin is a spa of comfort -- front seats with an infinite number of adjustments that can heat or cool on command. Displays and controls are tasteful, complete and advanced. Be sure to read the owner's manual before experimenting with them.

Rear seating is every bit as charming. Four adults share an intimate moment, yet can be very comfortable for miles and/or hours at a stretch. Excellent access to the rear seat is further complemented by hand grips in the body of the vehicle behind the doors. Storage is plentiful and convenient. Front and rear armrests and cupholders make the CL Class a very hospitable place.

Dimensions & specifications

CL550

Wheelbase: 116.3; overall length: 199.4; width: 73.7; height: 55.7 -- all measurements are in inches.

CL600

Wheelbase: 116.3; overall length: 199.4; width: 73.7; height: 55.8 -- all measurements are in inches.

CL65 AMG

Wheelbase: 116.3; overall length: 200.2; width: 73.7; height: 55.8 -- all measurements are in inches.

CL63 AMG

Wheelbase: 116.3; overall length: 200.2; width: 73.7; height: 55.7 --

all vehicle measurements are in inches.

Engine: 5.5L V8 -- 382 hp at 6,000 rpm and 391 lbs-ft of torque at 2,800-4,000 rpm; 6.3L V8 (AMG) -- 518 hp at 6,800 rpm and 465 lbs-ft of torque at 5,200 rpm; 5.5L twin-turbo V12 zero-510 hp at 5,000 rpm and 612 lbs-ft of torque at 1,800-3,500 rpm; 6.0L V12 twin-turbo (AMG) -- 604 hp at 4,800-5,100 rpm and 738 lbs-ft of torque at 2,000-4,000 rpm.

Transmission: five-speed automatic with AMG SpeedShift programming and selectable manual control, seven-speed electronically controlled automatic with adaptive shift logic and Touch Shift manual control and seven-speed electronically controlled automatic with AMG SpeedShift programming and selectable manual control.

EPA fuel economy: 5.5L V8 -– 15 city/22 hwy.; 5.5L V12 bi-turbo -– 13 city/19 hwy.; 6.0L V12 (AMG) bi-turbo -– 11 city/17 hwy.; 6.3L V8 (AMG) –- 11 city/18 hwy.

Cargo capacity: 12.3 cu. ft.

Safety features

Dual front airbags, front/rear head protection curtain, front/rear side-impact airbags, driver's side knee airbag, four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock, brake assist, electronic stability program, PRE-SAFE system, alarm system, engine immobilizer, TeleAid communication system, remote keyless entry w/SmarKey, front/rear fog lights, garage door opener, automatic headlamp control, bi-high intensity discharge headlamps, daytime running lights, central locking system, automatic power door locks, navigation system, parking sensors, tire pressure monitor, traction control and heated rain-sensing variable intermittent windshield wipers. CL63 AMG adds AMG enhanced disc brakes and Keyless Go engine start. CL600 ads Distronic Plus adaptive cruise control, blind spot alert, night vision system and rearview monitor.



Warranty

Basic: 4-year/50,000 mile, bumper-to-bumper.

Corrosion: 4-year/50,000 mile.

Roadside assistance: unlimited, 24-hour.

Pricing

The base Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL-Series coupe starts from $103,600 for the CL550 up to $197,500 for the CL65 AMG. Destination charges add $825.

#####