The 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL600 might be considered the Crme d' Le Crme of the high end touring car genre.
This carryover design from 2007 exudes an air of speed and performance even when at rest. Sweeping rearward, the pronounced body crease makes the car appear even lower than its overall height of 56 inches. The swept-back line of the front grille is repeated in the steeply raked roof pillars, and the abruptly cut-off rear-end brings to mind the aerodynamic-style that graced European racing coupes of the 1960s. Aggressively styled 18-inch alloy wheels shod with ultra-low profile high-performance tires virtually fill the fully radiused wheel wells.
Residing under the hood is a 5.5 liter single overhead cam, bi-turbo V-12 that produces an eye opening 510 horsepower, while delivering an EPA fuel estimate of 11 City/17 Highway. The CL's 612 pound feet of torque are routed to the rear wheels via a 5-speed, automatic transmission, laying down enough power to propel the 4900 pound coupe from 0-60 in just 4.5 seconds.
Four-wheel ventilated disc brakes with ABS and brake assist technology are standard, as are traction, and stability control.
The CL600 features leather and wood appointed upholstery throughout with heated and cooled, 14-way programmable seats up front and folding armrests both front and rear. The driver and front passenger are protected by dual-stage front and side-impact airbags with side curtain airbags provided for all passengers.
A remote controller provides operation of all the vehicles systems, such as state-of-the-art audio, climate, navigation and mobile communications, with additional controls mounted on the fully-adjustable leather and wood-trimmed steering wheel.
With an MSRP of $146,900, the Mercedes-Benz CL600 can be counted on to provide spirited and sophisticated motoring in the grand European tradition for a limited, but lucky few.