Overview & Reviews

The Mercedes-Benz CL-Class is that rare animal in the automotive kingdom, a large luxury coupe capable of accommodating two rear passengers in comfort while simultaneously shoving them into their seatbacks with abundant power. Other two-doors tend to offer either opulence or power, but the CL manages both and features a sumptuous leather-adorned interior to boot. Spanning four generations, the CL has seen a few name changes over the years, but has steadfastly maintained its status as perhaps the quintessential large luxury coupe.

Most recently, though, Mercedes-Benz has decided to completely drop the CL badge, instead calling its big two-door luxury coupe the S-Class coupe. From a used car standpoint, though, there's nothing quite like the CL.

Used Mercedes-Benz CL-Class Models
The fourth-generation Mercedes-Benz CL-Class luxury coupe was produced from 2007 through 2014. The CL was crammed full of the latest and greatest safety, comfort and entertainment technologies that the engineering wizards from Stuttgart could craft. This generation of the CL ventured farther from the S-Class sedan than past generations in terms of exterior styling, featuring curvier, more muscular lines than its subdued predecessor. This girth made the CL much larger and hundreds of pounds heavier than its closest competitors.

From 2011-'14 the CL came in four trim levels with corresponding engines: CL550 (429-horsepower twin-turbo 4.6-liter V8), CL600 (510-hp twin-turbo 5.5-liter V12), CL63 AMG (536 hp twin-turbo 5.5-liter V8) and CL65 AMG (621-hp twin-turbo 6.0-liter V12). The CL63's output could be further boosted to 563 hp and 664 pound-feet of torque via the AMG Performance package. The V8s had a seven-speed automatic transmission, while the V12's abundant torque required a more robust five-speed. The CL550 came standard with all-wheel drive, while the rest were rear-wheel drive.

Standard feature highlights included highly adjustable power front seats with heating, ventilation and memory functions, a navigation system, Bluetooth phone connectivity and a surround-sound audio system. There was also a full array of Mercedes' latest high-tech safety features such as Distronic Plus adaptive cruise control. The latter, which automatically accelerated and braked even in stop-and-go traffic, came standard on higher trims. The AMG models focused on performance with their more powerful engines, sport-tuned suspensions, high-performance brakes, unique exterior enhancements and leather sport seats.

In reviews, our editors were impressed by the CL's top-quality interior, competent handling and awesome performance regardless of trim level. Even the base CL550 is hard to fault, though its more powerful siblings are a league apart. In particular, the CL65's 738 lb-ft of torque seems sufficient to alter the Earth's rotation. One complaint is that the CL's long doors make it difficult to get in and out of the car in small parking spaces. But that will likely be a non-issue, as chances are you'll be parking this swanky Mercedes coupe as far away from other vehicles as possible.

CL models from 2007-'10 featured softer, less aggressive styling and different engines than those later CLs. But we can't say these are significant detractors when springing for a used CL. Initially there were just two models: CL550 and CL600. The CL550 had a 5.5-liter V8 that produced 382 hp and was rear-wheel-drive only -- all-wheel drive became standard for '09. The CL600 had the same V12 throughout this generation's run. The AMG models joined the lineup for 2008, though until 2011 the CL65's engine produced 604 hp, while the CL63 featured a 6.2-liter naturally aspirated V8 good for 518 hp.

The third-generation Mercedes-Benz CL-Class was produced from 2000-'06. It was lighter, less expensive and much sleeker than its massive, brick-shaped predecessor. The CL500, powered by a 302-hp V8, was the only model offered initially, with the 362-hp, V12-powered CL600 and the 354-hp, V8-powered CL55 AMG arriving in 2001. As usual, Mercedes used the CL to showcase its latest technologies such as Active Body Control, Distronic adaptive cruise control and PreSafe (for 2003). Mercedes also used '03 to introduce the turbocharged CL600 and supercharged CL55 AMG, both pumping out 493 hp. The CL500 added a seven-speed automatic transmission in 2004, while an AMG Sport Package was added to the CL500 and CL600 as standard equipment for this generation's last year.

At the time, our editors were impressed with the powerful engine choices, dizzying array of high-tech features, classic styling and comfortable long-distance cruising ability. We weren't fond of its complex COMAND navigation and audio system, however, and found the rear seat to be cramped.

The second-generation Mercedes-Benz CL-Class had a slight identity crisis, beginning its life as the 500SEC and 600SEC in 1993, changing into the S-Class Coupe in 1994 and finally settling on today's CL-Class moniker in 1998. Its sturdy, boxlike body changed very little during its run, giving it a strong resemblance to the S-Class/500SEL. It was offered with a 315-hp V8 and a new 389-hp V12 engine, neither of which changed during this generation's lifespan. As with today's generation, our editors couldn't find much to fault about this coupe's impressive combination of size, luxury and power. Its blocky styling is polarizing, however, and its huge price tag led us to suggest taking a look at cheaper alternatives.

The original flagship-sedan-based Mercedes-Benz luxury coupe was known as the SEC, which lived from 1981-'91. The 1986-'91 editions had a 238-hp, 5.6-liter V8, whereas the prior years were underpowered with a 3.8-liter, 155-hp V8. With its especially commodious rear seat, the 560SEC was actually considered a two-door sedan. This generation was also one of the first vehicles to offer airbags, antilock brakes, traction control and a self-leveling suspension.

User Reviews:

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  cool - 2003 Mercedes-Benz CL-Class
  By Juggluv - October 6 - 10:00 am

  much better than BMW

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  2004 CL500 - 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL-Class
  By cincy1 - September 30 - 2:00 am

  The CL500 comes close to meeting my expectations. Most features of this uber-machine are on a par with any super coupe on the planet. The exterior styling is elegant but understated. The engine and drivetrain are beyond comparison. The interior improvements over all other MB models sold me on the car. I am still disappointed that the floor carpeting and headliner material is less luxurious than my previous Lexus LS430. The dash (all leather), the seats, the center console and the instrument cluster are all amazing manifestations of the art of automotive design. Well done MB.

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  very fun to drive - 2003 Mercedes-Benz CL-Class
  By Eric Hwang - September 10 - 2:00 am

  I bought this car during the summer and ever since than i leave 2002bmw7 in my garage. Everyone that sees this car says that it really look good. My favorite part of this car is the visibility, you can really see clearly so its really fun to drive!

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  My 2002 CL55 - 2002 Mercedes-Benz CL-Class
  By IAF - August 16 - 10:00 am

  I have owed numerous other high end luxury and sports cars such as the SL Mercedes, Porche 911 . This is the finest blend of luxury and performance that I have experienced. The extraordinary attention to details is noteworthy. Although I have only owed the car for 6 months, I cant remember being quite as impressed with my other vehicles.

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  A Rocket with Class - 2006 Mercedes-Benz CL-Class
  By mcrosson - June 18 - 1:33 pm

  I recently bought an 06 CL55 AMG with low miles. It is the best looking big coupe MB has ever built, far better looking than the current body style, in my opinion. It is an absolute blast to drive... it has tremendous power and torque, faster than a speeding bullet and able to leap tall buildings in single bounds. It makes you feel like a superman driving it. The AMG seats are the best Ive ever sat in, with more adjustments available than a chiropractor. The only downside to the vehicle is the gas mileage - 17 in the city, 19- 20 highway. When you pay $75 to fill a 21.5 gallon tank, it kind of hurts. Until you press the engine start button. That that big grin takes over.

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  Awesome - 2005 Mercedes-Benz CL-Class
  By Amy - June 3 - 1:40 pm

  Excellent vehicle - luxury, sporty and powerful. Very comfortable and drives itself. Sound system is top notch. Navigation system is easy to use - not complicated at all as others have rated. It is a gas guzzler, however it is worth the extra premium gas price because the ride is awesome. Mercedes employees are very helpful and so professional. I love it.

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  Greatest MB Ive ever owned! - 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL-Class
  By Warren - May 8 - 12:46 am

  The CL600 just blew me away when I test drove it at the dealership! Fit and finish is superb. Handling is excellent. I love how it comes fully loaded with all options. Ive owned an SL500, SL55 and a CLS500 before this car. None of those MB cars comes close to how wonderful this car is.

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  JUST ABOUT BEST MONEY CAN BUY - 2005 Mercedes-Benz CL-Class
  By LETCHAW - March 21 - 10:00 am

  TRADED IN A 2004 MB 500. THAT CAR WAS A DELIGHT TO OWN, BUT NOW WITH THE CL500S IT FEELS LIKE I AM FLOATING ON A SOFT CLOUD INTO HEAVEN. WISH I COULD HAVE HAD PARKTRONIC WITH IT, BUT DEALERS INVENTORY DID NOT HAVE ANY IN STOCK. AND I WANTED IT NOW, NOT LATER!

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  Incredible for the money on the used market - 2005 Mercedes-Benz CL-Class
  By syberfilm - March 12 - 12:43 am

  I have about 150,000 miles on my CL65. I always wanted a 65 but was told not to get one because of the expense to work on. Let me tell you this is ultra reliable and way cheaper then my Ferrari. I have only had to issues in over 100K of driving. I bought it used with about 50K on it. First issue was a coil unit went out and I had to replace it. Cost about $2,500. The other issue, the ABC was drooping. The shop wanted over $3,000 to fix. I found a video on youtube and did it myself. for about $400 US. I am not very mechanical at all. It took me all day to do. But saved some bucks. Other then those two issues. The car has been a dream. I just do the scheduled maintenance and drive.

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  Bullet Proof CL63 - 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL-Class
  By CMM - January 23 - 6:36 pm

  An absolutely phenomenal car that makes CL (or S) driving more excitement than you can imagine. Not quite as much torque as the 12cyl CL600, but quick as nearly anything else on the street. When speed isnt an issue, it rides like a limo - smooth & quiet. With the AMG sport package and 20" wheels and tires it turns heads wherever it goes. Although its 4500lbs, it feels like a sports cars with the Active Body Control suspension that keeps the car dead flat. The tranmission is tied to the suspension settings and here again goes from smooth and easy to 7000rpm manual only shifting. Actually the middle Sport Mode is the best selction for shifting. Overall, the best Benz Ive owned in 20yrs