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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  CL Amazing! - 2003 Mercedes-Benz CL-Class
  By aedjlali - January 26 - 1:26 am

  I just bought my 2003 CL 500 and I love the car! It is great, no problems and many standard features. I wish the car had a more aggressive look, but it still looks very classy. Fuel economy also is bad 16-24mpg I typically get 15-17 and I drive conservatively. If you have the money I would def recommend one, a lot better than most cars out there!

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  Best car I ever owned - 2002 Mercedes-Benz CL-Class
  By richard - January 18 - 11:16 pm

  This is the best car I have ever owned. There is absolutely nothing wrong with it. The styling, power and build quality are as good as it gets.I suggest you get silver with the charcoal interior for the classic Mercedes look. Its a head turner.

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  It doesnt get any better than this - 2002 Mercedes-Benz CL-Class
  By fredric palmieri - January 3 - 10:00 am

  Everything its cracked up to be and everything that you would expect. Power, handling, smoothness, refinement. It literally does anything that you want it to do. The turning radius is incredible(lock to lock), The looks are awesome and the gadgets aplenty. A true tour de force for MB as its flagship,

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  Head Turning Style and Mercedes Quality - 2001 Mercedes-Benz CL-Class
  By BenzOwner - December 21 - 10:00 am

  Purchased this car from Park Place Bedford,TX. I had always wanted a Benz, saw this one and fell in love. This car is in tip top shape in every way. It looks brand new inside and out, and my purchase and service experiences have been the best. This dealership treats you like royalty in every way! (Thanks Brian) I do wish the fuel economy was better, but with power and performance like no other its better than expected. Sound system is top notch, and all the options are user friendly. This care is impressive in every way. Mercedes was way ahead of its time when they built this dream machine!

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  Black/Java CL 500 - 2002 Mercedes-Benz CL-Class
  By Dr GMF - December 11 - 2:00 am

  Replacing passenger door electric window motor has been frustrating. Dealer service cut the leather then they broke every speaker grill (3) at the next three appointments. They replaced damaged wood trim on door and seat function panel. Always delivered car with grease spots everywhere they touched it and really did not care. Finally the center console split in half and needed replacement. Strange vibrations from wheels in the mornings that the dealer blames on low battery charge? The paasenger door is still not right but no body including MB cares.

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  Dangerous car - 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL-Class
  By Lewis L - November 8 - 12:26 am

  I own a CL600 and recently had a total brake failure. I hit a wall doing about 60mph. No airbag deployment, presafe brake failed, and no warning about the brakes. Mercedes lawyered up and refuses to deal with this. Ive had lots of other little problems, but am shocked at how they treat customers buying a flagship model.

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  Absolutely stunning - 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL-Class
  By Adlibber - November 4 - 4:36 pm

  I was a bit leery about jumping back into the Mercedes fold after a less-than-satisfying stint in a 2000 S-class. My leap of faith has been richly rewarded. This car is fast, tight, and a feast for the eyes. One minor problem, apparently caused by repairman error at 2500-mile checkup. oil not filled all the way. A ten-minute fix. Mines black with black interior. It handles like a fighter plane on Mulholland Drive. Lots of thumbs-up from fellow drivers. The awesome power, ABC and the active seats make this hands-down the most amazing car Ive ever driven. If you can afford it, and can live with the ozone destruction, get on the waiting list.

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  coup no more... - 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL-Class
  By silver coupe - October 24 - 10:00 am

  this is my 2nd cl 500 ,as the first one (2003), was deliverd to me demaged from merceds benz... and after some"persuation" was bought back from me and replaced. this car is beautifull to look at ,inside out but very quirky on many levels--- ride is mushy ,handling is ok but its no beamer, too many rattles and noises coming at you from all directions. this is not what youd expect from $100k car! my first(or shall i say second)mb ,and the last one! please ,drive me to the nearest bmw dealership!

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  Almost Perfect...almost - 2002 Mercedes-Benz CL-Class
  By Ken - September 2 - 12:50 am

  Classic design...just a beautiful machine. I had heard about some MB quality issues in the early 2000s model lines and there are some bugs in the car: engine computer replacement, radiator hose replacement, window wahser resvoir repalcement, a turn signal that just wont work. Bummer on a car that cost $120k new. On the plus side this is a magical machine that you only really begin to understand at 100mph+. The design is clean and classic...the V12 purrs unless you want it to growl, which it is happy to do. This car is all alpha male selection.

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  2002 MBZ CL 500 - 2001 Mercedes-Benz CL-Class
  By Paula M. - July 28 - 10:00 am

  My experience driving the MBZ CL 500 2002 for 15 months has been excellent. One repair was needed, a part for the brakes was relpaced due to squeaking. I highly recommend the car. It drives like a sports