Mercedes Benz 2007 Model

Feast your eyes on the first aftermarket customization package for the new 2007 Mercedes-Benz CL Class. This Executive tuning package includes a new front spoiler, vented front fenders (they're all the rage right now), side skirts and a new rear spoiler we unfortunately can't see from this angle. Wald International also offers a lineup of custom wheels to provide the perfect accent for your CL.

Mercedes-Benz is notorious for introducing high-performance AMG editions of its passenger cars. A new CL63 AMG model with a 525-horsepower V-8 debuts for the 2007 model year. Following that trend, the CL500 grows some more muscle and becomes the CL550 for 2007, a name change that reflects the new 382-hp V-8 engine. Joining it will be an even more burly CL600 that features a 510-hp, twin-turbocharged V-12. The CL-Class hits dealerships in the fall of 2006.

The CL-Class is a two-door equivalent to the German automaker's high-end S-Class sedan. A DVD navigation system, MP3 player and 18-inch wheels can be installed. The DVD navigation system is standard on the CL600 and is bundled in Mercedes' Comand Aps program, along with controls for the radio and other items.

Keyless Go, a heated steering wheel, corner-illuminating fog lamps and an electronic trunk closer are standard on the CL600. Options include Distronic Adaptive Cruise Control, which adjusts speed automatically to maintain a preset distance behind the vehicle ahead.

Mercedes-Benz is in the middle of significant model changes throughout its lineup and today introduced what it hopes will be another success, the all-new CL-Class. Built on the same platform as the new S-Class sedan reintroduced earlier this year, the CL is a luxury coupe with plenty of punch.

The CL500 features the base engine, a powerful V-8 producing 388 hp. While the CL600 houses — wait for it — a bi-turbo 12-cylinder that puts out 517 hp. That sucker hustles to 62 mph in 4.6 seconds (German automakers release 0-100 km/h times that translate to 0-62 mph). Oh, and the CL600 actually gets slightly better gas mileage than the previous version.

Exterior
Bulges around the wheels, a sculpted ridge along the lower sill and a subtle bodyside crease distinguish the 2007 CL from the 2006 model. There is also an optional AMG appearance package that adds new front and rear aprons and side skirts; 19-inch wheels are optional with that appearance package.

All CL-Class coupes have Active Body Control, which is an active suspension system that continuously adjusts firmness to eliminate body roll and pitch during cornering, acceleration and braking. Xenon high-intensity-discharge headlights include washers. A power moonroof is standard.

Interior
CL-Class coupes accommodate up to four occupants and have bucketlike rear seats. The CL600 has unique leather upholstery. Burl walnut or chestnut wood interior trim is available.

An SOS button for automatic emergency calling is tied to the Tele Aid system. A Bose audio system is installed. Cooled seats are optional on the CL550 and standard on the CL600.

Under the Hood
A 382-hp, 5.5-liter V-8 goes into the CL550. The CL600 employs a twin-turbo 5.5-liter V-12 that generates 510 hp and 612 pounds-feet of torque. The high-performance CL63 AMG features a 6.2-liter V-8 that makes 525 hp and 465 pounds-feet of torque. The CL550 has a seven-speed automatic transmission with manual shift control. The CL600 uses a five-speed automatic transmission that also permits manually selected gear changes.



Safety
Door-mounted side-impact airbags for the front seats, side curtain airbags that deploy from above the side windows, and side-impact airbags that protect the torsos of backseat occupants are standard. The front passenger's airbag deploys at one of two levels. Antilock brakes, traction control and an electronic stability system are standard.


The CL should hit U.S. dealerships, this fall with prices announced closer to on sale dates, but we expect them to remain similar to the 2006 CL model which starts at $95,500.