2010 Mercedes Benz CL
- 2009 Mercedes Benz CL
Based on analysis of 41 CL reviews and test drives.
Mercedes Benz CL - What the Auto Press Says
The 2010 Mercedes Benz CL ranks 1 out of 9 Super Luxury Sports Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 41 published reviews and test drives of the Mercedes Benz CL, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
The 2010 Mercedes-Benz CL is fast, powerful and classy. What's more, it doesn't sacrifice performance for comfort - it excels at both.
Auto critics admire the CL for its combination of power and elegance. While other super luxury sport cars flash their sporting abilities and high-priced marquees in your face, the CL defines itself as an exclusive and high-class vehicle without resorting to gimmicks. "Sumptuously furnished, beautiful to behold, and packed with enough technology to make a Radio Shack employee blush, the CL is a perfectly understated vehicle for showcasing your success," writes Car and Driver.
Still the CL isn't without its flaws. In addition to a cramped backseat, which is common in this class, critics note that its COMAND multimedia interface system is difficult to operate. Most, however, agree that these are minor issues and they shouldn't dissuade interested car shoppers.
If you're in the market for a super luxury sports coupe, be sure to also test drive the Jaguar XK and BMW 6-Series. Like the CL, both are criticized for cramped accommodations in the rear cabin and difficult-to-use multimedia interface systems. However, some critics find that the XK's exterior design is sleeker and more aggressive. Meanwhile, the 6-Series, like almost every BMW, features superb handling dynamics.
The CL is available in two trims, the CL550 and CL600. High-performance CL63 AMG and CL65 AMG models are also available.
- "Any CL-Class is very pricey, but they're all brimming with power, technology, and luxury. For the well-heeled shopper with little use for a rear seat, these well-crafted coupes are a wonderful indulgence." -- Consumer Guide
- "Along with the cachet that comes with driving this $100,00-plus automobile is the acknowledgement that its fluid, flowing lines are accompanied by superb V8 performance and one of the most dazzling arrays of hi-tech equipment ever packed into a single vehicle." -- Kelley Blue Book
CL Performance - 8.8 (Very Good)
Test drivers fancy the CL's powerful, yet composed road manners. It "delivers a serene driving experience with plenty of performance to wake up passengers who might have otherwise been lulled to sleep by the car's super-quiet and comfy cabin," says Edmunds. Standard on the CL550 is Benz's 4Matic all-wheel drive system. Read More
CL Exterior - 8.4 (Very Good)
Unlike some competitors, the CL isn't overly flashy -- which is what reviewers admire most about it.."In the world of high-dollar coupes, the CL550's styling is rather restrained," writes Cars.com. "Still, its long profile, low-slung stance and big three-pointed star on the grille say 'I'm expensive,' even to casual observers." Read More
CL Interior - 8.6 (Very Good)
Auto writers admire the CL's elegant cabin. "Though understated, the CL's cabin is appointed with luxurious, top-notch materials," says Consumer Guide -- before adding, "Assembly quality is flawless." Still, reviewers take issue with its cramped rear seats and difficult-to-use COMAND multimedia system. Read More
CL Safety - NA
The 2010 CL has not been crash tested. At this price point, few cars are. Nevertheless, it comes equipped with loads of advanced safety technology -- including Mercedes-Benz's PRE-SAFE system. Read More
CL Reliability - NA
The Mercedes-Benz CL carries a four-year/50,000-mile basic warranty. An extended limited warranty is also available. Read More
