All-New 2007 Mercedes-Benz CL Class Introduced

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.

The interior will look remarkably similar to the S-Class, and the exterior features the same haunches – those huge bulges above the wheels — that are the major design element from the four-door. While we applaud design boldness, the look might not be universally appealing. However, the new S-Class is selling well and we expect the CL to follow suit.

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. For more exterior and interior photos click below.

[Source: DaimlerChrysler]

Interior

With the windows down. Notice the open space from front to back.