2007 Mercedes-Benz CL-class and CL63 AMG

Mercedes-Benz's redesigned megacoupe adapts the style of the new S-class sedan while incorporating characteristic elements such as the pillarless hardtop greenhouse; thin, elegant c-pillars; and a low, wide grille with an integrated star. The interior matches that of its four-door sibling and truly marks a return to the beautiful cabins of classic big Mercs. At launch, the CL-class starts out as a two-model lineup: The CL550 and CL600. The former uses a 5.5-liter V-8 (382 hp, 391 lb-ft) and a seven-speed manu-matic to reach 60 mph in 5.4 seconds. The CL600's twin-turbocharged 5.5-liter V-12 (510 hp, 612 lb-ft) and five-speed manu-matic enable it to achieve the same speed in 4.5 seconds. As one would expect, the CL600 also is suffused with every electronic weapon in the company's considerable arsenal. It's an imposing piece.

Just as imposing is the CL63 debuting here in Paris. It employs the AMG shop's new 6.2-liter, normally-aspirated V-8 with a SAE output of 518 hp and 465 lb-ft, and while that torque figure may seem disappointing next to the CL600's number, the CL63 suffers from no turbo lag on its estimated 4.4-second trip to 60 mph and benefits from a stiffer, AMG-tuned suspension. As expected, the CL63 also gets big wheels and aggressive-looking bumpers and side skirts.