The 2014 model year marked the culmination of an era for the Mercedes-Benz premium coupe line, a series that stood unchallenged in its segment against rivals like the G-Class, GL-Class, and SL-Class. The CL Coupe catered to a discerning clientele, those who sought unparalleled luxury and performance in a two-door form. This generation represented the zenith of Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to crafting grand tourers that were as breathtakingly beautiful as they were technologically advanced.
Alt text: Elegant side profile of a Mercedes-Benz CL Coupe showcasing its long wheelbase and graceful roofline, emphasizing the luxury grand tourer design.
Mercedes-Benz’s CL Coupe range offered a compelling choice between potent V8 and formidable V12 engines, further augmented by high-performance AMG variants for those craving ultimate power. At the heart of the lineup was the biturbo-powered CL550 4MATIC coupe, delivering 429 horsepower and 516 lb.-ft. of torque, coupled with the confidence of standard all-wheel drive. For enthusiasts demanding more, the CL63 AMG model unleashed a high-performance 5.5-liter AMG iteration of the biturbo V8, producing a staggering 536 horsepower and 590 lb.-ft. of torque, channeled through AMG’s acclaimed MCT transmission. Rounding out the engine options were the majestic V12-powered CL600, generating 510 horsepower and 612 lb.-ft., and the apex predator, the CL65 AMG, boasting an immense 621 horsepower and 738 lb.-ft. of torque.
Alt text: Detailed view of the Mercedes-Benz CL Coupe engine bay showcasing the powerful V8 biturbo engine, highlighting the engineering excellence and performance capabilities of the vehicle.
Fuel Efficiency and Advanced Transmission Technology
The 2014 CL Coupe models incorporated a state-of-the-art transmission engineered for optimal fuel efficiency without compromising driving dynamics. This advanced transmission featured a sophisticated torque converter lock-up clutch, meticulously calibrated to provide a harmonious blend of fuel economy, responsive performance, refined quietness, and enhanced long-term durability.
This transmission was specifically designed to operate in synergy with a revolutionary low-viscosity ATF transmission fluid, distinctively colored blue instead of the conventional red. This “FE-ATF” fluid, in conjunction with specialized planetary gears, bearings, and internal seals, minimized internal friction, contributing to improved fuel mileage. Furthermore, reduced hydraulic pressure and refined electronic software algorithms facilitated even smoother and more seamless gear shifts, elevating the overall driving experience.
Cutting-Edge COMAND System
The interior of the CL Coupe was a sanctuary of technology and luxury, headlined by the COMAND system. This sophisticated infotainment hub featured a vibrant seven-inch color display, seamlessly integrating GPS navigation, a substantial ten-gigabyte hard drive for music storage, an SD card slot for media versatility, intuitive voice control, and a convenient six-disc CD/DVD changer. Connectivity was paramount, with the inclusion of a Bluetooth interface for wireless audio streaming and hands-free phone calls, alongside HD/AM/weatherband radio, an FM phase-diversity twin tuner for superior reception, SiriusXM satellite radio for endless entertainment options, and a USB port discreetly located in the center console. The powerful navigation system was enhanced with a suite of new features, including a visually rich 3D city map display, a helpful compass overlay, the ability to preview alternate routes before selection, and route recording capabilities.
Alt text: Luxurious interior of a Mercedes-Benz CL Coupe featuring the advanced COMAND infotainment system, showcasing the integration of technology and premium materials in the cabin.
Downsized Engine, Undiminished Power: The Twin-Turbo V8
Beneath the CL550 4MATIC coupe’s elegant exterior resided a potent V8 engine, a testament to Mercedes-Benz’s engineering prowess. This advanced powerplant incorporated direct fuel injection, twin turbochargers, and multi-spark ignition, resulting in an exceptional balance of power and efficiency. The 4.6-liter V8 engine generated an impressive 429 horsepower and a commanding 516 lb.-ft. of torque, ensuring exhilarating performance in all driving scenarios.
Precision Direct Injection with Piezo Injectors
The V8 engine leveraged industry-leading piezo-electric fuel injectors, which precisely sprayed gasoline directly into the combustion chambers. These innovative injectors utilized a piezo-ceramic crystalline element that changed shape when an electrical current was applied. The incredibly rapid response of piezo injectors enabled the design of highly sensitive and precise injection systems, capable of executing multiple small injections within each piston stroke. This level of precision was particularly remarkable considering that engines idle around 20 strokes per second and, at high speeds, operate at approximately 200 strokes per second.
Multi-Spark Ignition Synergizing with Multi-Squirt
Complementing the spray-guided direct injection was a rapid multi-spark ignition system. This system initiated combustion with the first spark but possessed the capability to recharge and deliver up to three additional sparks within a single millisecond. This multi-spark approach created a gas plasma with greater expansion compared to conventional ignition systems. The adjustable time lapse between sparks allowed for precise control over combustion duration, resulting in a two percent improvement in fuel economy, further enhanced by a total of four percent when combined with the direct fuel injection system.
Advanced Safety and Convenience Features
The CL Coupe was a showcase of Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to safety and convenience. The innovative Splitview dual-content display, available in select states, allowed the driver and front passenger to simultaneously view different content on the same screen. For example, the driver could utilize the navigation system while the passenger enjoyed a movie, viewed from a different angle on the same display. CL Coupes equipped with the optional DISTRONIC PLUS system also benefited from Active Blind Spot Assist, which diligently monitored blind spots behind the vehicle. If a turn signal was activated while a vehicle was detected in the blind spot, the driver received visual and audible warnings.
The optional Active Lane Keeping Assist system utilized a multi-purpose camera in the windshield and sophisticated image analysis software to recognize lane markings. If the vehicle drifted from its lane without the turn signals activated, the system alerted the driver by simulating rumble strip vibrations in the steering wheel. Both Active Lane Keeping Assist and Active Blind Spot Assist incorporated an intervention feature. If the driver failed to respond to the initial warnings, the ESP braking system automatically intervened to help correct the car’s course.
ATTENTION ASSIST: Proactive Driver Drowsiness Detection
Standard across the CL Coupe range was ATTENTION ASSIST, a system designed to detect early signs of driver drowsiness, a significant factor in accidents. A steering sensor, coupled with intelligent software analyzing 70 parameters, established a unique driver profile during the initial 20 minutes of driving. Between 50 and 112 mph, the system identified erratic steering corrections indicative of drowsiness and triggered an audible warning, accompanied by a “Time for a rest?” message and a coffee cup icon in the instrument cluster.
Enhanced Visibility with Night View Assist PLUS and Adaptive Highbeam Assist
Available as an option, Night View Assist PLUS significantly enhanced nighttime visibility by allowing the driver to detect pedestrians up to 300 feet earlier than with conventional headlights. When pedestrians were recognized, the system highlighted them with an outlined frame in the display. Unlike passive thermal imaging systems, this active system utilized invisible infra-red light beams from two headlights to illuminate the road ahead. Extending the driver’s vision to nearly 500 feet, Night View Assist PLUS employed an infra-red camera in the windshield and displayed highly detailed black and white video images in the instrument cluster.
Adaptive Highbeam Assist, utilizing the same camera, detected both headlights and taillights of other vehicles and seamlessly transitioned between high and low beams to prevent dazzling other drivers. This system provided a continuously variable headlight range, extending from 220 feet up to 1,000 feet.
PRE-SAFE® Brake: Automatic Emergency Braking
Standard on all CL Coupe models was the foundational PRE-SAFE® system, proactively positioning the front passenger seat for optimized protection in the critical moments before a potential impact. Side windows automatically closed to provide enhanced support for the window curtain airbags, and specialized seat cushions inflated to improve lateral support and airbag effectiveness. In the event of a detected rollover, the sunroof also automatically closed.
The CL Coupe generation marked the debut of the revolutionary PRE-SAFE® Brake system, capable of automatically applying braking in specific emergency situations. CL Coupes equipped with the radar-based DISTRONIC PLUS system benefited from PRE-SAFE Brake. The advanced system issued three warning tones upon sensing an impending collision. Approximately 1.6 seconds before a likely impact, partial braking was automatically initiated, and the PRE-SAFE occupant protection system was activated. If the driver still failed to react, full-power braking was applied about 0.6 seconds before the collision, mitigating the impact and effectively acting as an “electronic crumple zone.”
DISTRONIC PLUS: Traffic Congestion Assistance
The optional DISTRONIC PLUS adaptive cruise control system utilized radar sensors to maintain a pre-set following distance from the vehicle ahead. In stop-and-go traffic, the system could bring the car to a complete stop and automatically accelerate again if traffic resumed within three seconds. DISTRONIC PLUS operated at speeds up to 125 mph, proving particularly beneficial in congested traffic conditions. Short-range 24-gigahertz radar covered the initial 33 yards with an 80-degree fan-shaped pattern, working in conjunction with a narrower nine-degree beam of longer-range radar. These complementary radar frequencies provided comprehensive coverage exceeding 160 yards.
DISTRONIC PLUS also integrated Park Assist, utilizing six radar sensors discreetly mounted behind the front and rear bumpers, eliminating the need for visible ultrasonic sensor “portholes.” At low speeds, the system scanned for available parking spaces and displayed a “P” in the instrument cluster if the car would fit. When reverse gear was engaged, the parking system overlaid guidance lines on the rear-view camera display, dynamically adjusting with steering input to simplify parking maneuvers.
Direct Steer and Torque Vectoring Brake
Non-AMG CL models featured Direct Steer, which employed variable-ratio gearing in the steering rack. This system provided excellent on-center steering feel and enhanced responsiveness beyond the initial five degrees of steering angle. Unlike the electronic ATTENTION ASSIST system, Direct Steer was purely mechanical, minimizing steering effort during cornering and low-speed maneuvers like parking.
Torque Vectoring Brake, standard on all CL Coupes, was a feature within the ESP stability control system specifically designed to sharpen steering response during spirited driving. When aggressive steering inputs were detected, brief braking pulses at the inside rear wheel helped pivot the vehicle and enhance handling agility.
CL63 AMG: High-Performance V8 Powerhouse
The CL63 AMG model elevated performance to new heights, featuring a larger 5.5-liter version of the twin-turbo, direct-injection V8 engine, producing a formidable 536 horsepower and 590 lb.-ft. of torque. This high-performance coupe was equipped with AMG’s award-winning MCT (multi-clutch technology) transmission. Utilizing an innovative start-up clutch in place of a conventional torque converter, operating in an oil bath, the seven-speed MCT transmission combined the direct responsiveness of a manual gearbox with the lightning-fast automatic gear shifts reminiscent of Formula 1 cars.
Alt text: Front three-quarter view of a Mercedes-Benz CL63 AMG highlighting its aggressive styling, AMG-specific alloy wheels, and powerful stance, emphasizing its high-performance nature.
Exclusive AMG Styling, Inside and Out
The CL63 AMG was visually distinguished by unique body styling, AMG alloy wheels, a sport-tuned suspension, and a high-performance brake system, all meticulously engineered by AMG. A muscular front bumper with large air intakes housed chrome-ringed round fog lights, and “V8 Biturbo” badges adorned the front fenders. Contoured side skirts flowed seamlessly from the front bumper to the rear, where an AMG rear apron accentuated the vehicle’s width. Twin tailpipes completed the signature AMG aesthetic and auditory experience. When equipped with the optional AMG Performance Package, the CL63 could reach an electronically limited top speed of 186 mph on 20-inch twin-spoke alloy wheels.
Inside the CL63 AMG, drivers were greeted by an AMG sport steering wheel with distinctive aluminum shift paddles and AMG multi-contour leather sport seats with unique piping. A Sport-Comfort-Manual button on the center console allowed drivers to select between three distinct transmission shift programs, simultaneously fine-tuning accelerator pedal response and sport suspension settings. An exclusive analog clock, inspired by the “IWC-Ingenieur” series, graced the center of the dashboard, adding a touch of refined sportiness.
AMG Enhanced Suspension and Braking Systems
The CL63 AMG suspension and brake systems were engineered for uncompromising high-performance driving. AMG meticulously tuned the Mercedes-Benz ABC active suspension for even flatter cornering and reduced body movement during acceleration and braking. The AMG twin sliding calipers on the front brakes combined the performance of a large fixed caliper with the advantages of a floating caliper, primarily minimizing heat transfer to the brake fluid. Large compound brake discs, measuring 15.4 inches in diameter at the front and 14.4 inches at the rear, ensured exceptional stopping power even during high-speed driving. The CL63 AMG rode on 20-inch staggered AMG light-alloy wheels, 8.5 inches wide at the front and 9.5 inches at the rear, fitted with low-profile 255/35 (front) and 275/35 (rear) tires.
V12 Power and Unrivaled Luxury in the CL Coupe
Turning to the V12-powered CL Coupe models, the CL600 embodied the spirit of the legendary 600-Class “Grand Mercedes.” Lavishly appointed with extensive wood and leather trim, this V12 flagship came comprehensively equipped with virtually all available options as standard, including DISTRONIC PLUS with Parking Guidance, infrared Night View Assist, Keyless-Go, a rear-view camera, ABC active suspension, three-zone climate control, and an integrated hands-free communication system with voice control.
Twin-Turbo V12 Engine: Effortless Power and Refinement
Powered by a twin-turbo V12 engine generating 510 horsepower and an astounding 612 lb.-ft. of torque, the CL600 model seamlessly blended the whisper-smooth performance of a flagship Mercedes-Benz sedan with the immense power of a twin-turbo V12. This bi-turbo V12 engine delivered effortless thrust with turbine-like smoothness and a broad powerband, reaching peak torque as low as 1,800 rpm. Paired with a high-tech engine, Direct-Select five-speed transmission, and state-of-the-art aerodynamics, the CL600 could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in under 4.5 seconds, outpacing many sports cars.
CL65 AMG: Redefining V12 Performance
The CL65 AMG represented the pinnacle of CL Coupe performance, featuring a 6.0-liter twin-turbo V12 engine producing an astonishing 604 horsepower and a colossal 738 lb-ft of torque. While this formidable engine could propel the car from zero to 60 mph in approximately 4.2 seconds, the supremely smooth twelve-cylinder powerplant was equally adept at relaxed cruising.
The CL65 AMG engine incorporated numerous high-tech enhancements, including a precision-balanced longer-stroke crankshaft, larger-bore forged pistons, and robust bearings and oil-spray cooling system. Each twelve-cylinder engine was meticulously hand-assembled at the AMG engine facility in Affalterbach, Germany, adhering to the “one-man, one-engine” philosophy, symbolized by a signature plate on the engine bearing the name of the master technician who built it.
Conclusion: The Enduring Legacy of the Mercedes-Benz CL Coupe
The 2014 Mercedes-Benz Cl Coupe marked the end of a distinguished generation, leaving behind a legacy of unparalleled luxury, groundbreaking technology, and exhilarating performance. From the sophisticated CL550 4MATIC to the awe-inspiring CL65 AMG, the CL Coupe range offered a grand touring experience that few could rival. It solidified its place as a true icon in the world of luxury coupes, appealing to those who demanded the very best in automotive engineering and design. For enthusiasts and collectors alike, the benz cl coupe remains a sought-after symbol of Mercedes-Benz’s unwavering commitment to excellence.
