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:
Showing 41 through 50 of 135.00-
Design, Safety, Performance and Luxury - 2003 Mercedes-Benz CL-Class
By ADP - February 25 - 2:00 amThe CL55 is a supercar. Its dynamic performance matches that of a number of two seat sports cars that are widely considered supercars. Despite the performance capabilities, the car is quite comfortable and quiet. The Automatic Body Control is amazing, as are the brakes. The build quality is very good. My experience with the car has been entirely satisfactory.
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The Best Luxury Coupe! - 2007 Mercedes-Benz CL-Class
By mykelsang4lyf - November 17 - 5:00 pmThe standard features for this car are amazing. Basically the options for the other models of Mercedes are standard on this model. Navigation, Bi-Xenon headlights, etc. The performance from this is phenomenal. Mercedes has stepped up with not only performance, but they also topped the world of automotive technology. I would not trade this car for anything else.
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Amazingly unreliable - 2002 Mercedes-Benz CL-Class
By amcl500 - November 6 - 2:00 amM-B has sometime in the last few years lost its commitment to quality control and reliable design. Problems in first 30 days: picked it up on a Friday afternoon - returned it immediately: the brake lights didnt function. Picked it up on Tuesday: returned it later the same day when it exhibited a disturbing vibration at highway speed. (poorly aligned drive shaft)Next drive showed the car handled extremely poorly. (M-B dilivered the car with a cheap set of tires not suitably rated) A few mornings later (with only 150 miles on the vehicle) the car was totally dead in my garage. The dealer claims it was "only" a bad battery.
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Dont Do It !!! - 2001 Mercedes-Benz CL-Class
By Ian Bourne - August 26 - 7:26 amI bought this car in 2003 and kept it 5 years. It was $118 new, I paid $66k, I sold it in late 2008 for $19,500. Is that a clue ? Great looking , great driving and the absolute worst reliability. Mostly electronics, although the trunk brake light popped off when my wife closed the lid gently. the V-12 side emblem broke its plastic self off twice while I gently washed it. The car developed oil leaks, my " Nice People, Nice cars dealer " quoted $9,200 for that. Suspensions tend to collapse also I was told. When we sold it it only had 42k miles on the clock. Oh, We also replaced a computer fuel feed unit, $1,400. Youll fall in love but be ready for an expensive divorce !!!
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It tickles me - 2003 Mercedes-Benz CL-Class
By FILSEE - August 2 - 10:00 amIt still continues to exceed my performance expectations and in my estimation is a stronger, beefier design than the 2007 model change.
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Mercedes-Benz - 2002 Mercedes-Benz CL-Class
By Mahmoud - July 20 - 10:00 amMercedes-Benz it is very good fantasitic very fast and comfort with good Performance
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Mercedes Benz CL500 - 2002 Mercedes-Benz CL-Class
By allan wexler - June 1 - 10:00 amThe best car that I have ever owned. The most fun car to drive. Excellent styling. The seats are firm, but I think that this is due to the comfort control package which massages your back. Vey smooth and powerful.
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Best Ever - 2003 Mercedes-Benz CL-Class
By Coppy - April 21 - 2:00 amIve owned most makes over 40 years,MB since 1969, every high line Mercedes made in the last 20 years (no AMGs) and this by far the finest and most reliable car of all. After eight months of ownership the car remains flawless, is perfectly comfortable and a blast to drive.
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Beautiful Machine - 2003 Mercedes-Benz CL-Class
By Yoo Fool - February 24 - 2:00 amIt was awesome. I loved every bit of it. The look is a diamond by itself. It is another world when I drive it. I take my car every where.
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Mercedes Benz CL500 " A Drivers Dream." - 2005 Mercedes-Benz CL-Class
By Champlinmarty - February 3 - 1:06 pmAll around beautifully designed inside and out. Very comfortable on long drives or just out for a fun spin around the block. Adequate power and great automatic shifter for extra fun on the highways. Many extra options available which I took advantage of. Includes automatic starter, AMG sport package, satelite radio, upgraded navigation and a few others. Being a huge car fan, this is THE car to drive. Luxury, sport orientated, and sophistication in one awesome package. No dissapointments for the true car driver!
