The
2011 Mercedes-Benz CL-Class is a large four-passenger luxury coupe distinguished by its prodigious power and refined handling. Power train choices range from a 4.6-liter V-8 engine to a 6.2-liter V-12 engine paired with a seven-speed automatic transmission. All-wheel drive is available at the turbo V-8 trim level, while the rest of the line comes with rear-wheel drive.
As one of the largest coupes on the market, the CL-Class is in an elite class and sports a wheel base of 116 inches. While similar to the S-Class, the CL-Class features pronounced wheel arches, dramatic contouring, and an angular nose and tail. Packaged into the Mercedes CL is one of the most sophisticated safety systems on the road. And for so much car, fuel economy in the 15 mpg city/23 mpg highway range is par for the course.
New for 2011
The 2011 Mercedes CL-Class sports a restyled body and cabin, bolstered by the new mbrace emergency telematics system. The coupe's new engine is a 4.6-liter, 429-horsepower direct-injection V-8 with 47 more in horsepower and a mind-boggling 185 pound-feet more torque than its predecessor. The CL63 trim level received a new twin-turbo 5.5-liter direct-injected V-8 with stop-start technology, plus AMG's seven-speed multi-clutch transmission, while the CL65 now offers even more power.
Essentials
Engines: 4.6L V-8, 5.5L turbocharged V-8, 6.0L V-12, 6.2L V-12
Transmission: 7-speed automatic
Body Style: Coupe
Trims: CL550 Coupe, CL63 AMG Coupe, CL600 Coupe, CL65 AMG Coupe
On the Outside
On the exterior, the 2011 Mercedes CL-Class got a new hood, grille, fenders, LED turn signals, and taillights. A new exterior color Magnetite Black is optionally available. The CL-Class travels on 18-, 19-, or 20-inch wheels depending on trim level and options.
From the Inside
The Mercedes CL-Class transports four passengers comfortably with leather, 14-way power heated and vented seats, and an 11-speaker Harman Kardon audio system. Options include Alcantara headliner, Bluetooth interface, iPod integration, and heated steering wheel.
Driving Performance
The twin-turbo V-8 gets nearly 200 pound-feet more torque for the 2011 CL, while the largest engine also now has 621 horsepower and 738 pound-feet of torque. All engines generate smooth power paired to a seven-speed automatic transmission making Mercedes CL-Class handling a thing of beauty. AMG options make 0-to-60 exciting, and braking power is impressive as well.
Safety Equipment
Standard safety features on the Mercedes CL are dual front airbags, front and rear side airbags, driver-side knee bag, and full-length head curtain. In addition, four-wheel disc brakes with ABS, stability control, attention assist, active lane keeping assist, and active blind spot assist are also standard.
Gas Mileage
15 mpg city / 23 mpg highway
Plusses
- Beautiful styling
- Fluid handling
- Prodigious engines
- Tons of luxury
Minuses
- Cramped rear seat
- High price tag
- AWD on only one trim
Rating
Top of the line performance, luxury & beauty in a big coupe package
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