In the realm of automotive luxury, the grand tourer holds a special place. These are vehicles designed not just for transportation, but for indulging in the journey itself. The 2007 Mercedes Benz Cl550 perfectly embodies this concept, representing a harmonious blend of potent performance, opulent comfort, and sophisticated styling. This two-door coupe, while offering vestigial rear seats, prioritizes the experience of the driver and front passenger, making every drive an occasion. The CL550 is a testament to Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to crafting vehicles that are both exhilarating and refined, a true personal luxury car for the discerning driver.
Design and Styling: A Modern Take on Classic Coupe Elegance
The Mercedes Benz CL-Class of 2007 immediately evokes the spirit of classic luxury coupes, yet it confidently strides into the future with its design language. Its long, sweeping lines originate from a smoothly sculpted front end, characterized by a wider three-slat grille that is unmistakably Mercedes-Benz. This grille is flanked by Bi-Xenon headlamps that not only provide superior illumination but also feature corner-following technology, enhancing visibility in turns.
The CL550’s profile is a masterclass in automotive design. Steroidal wheel arches hint at the power within, while the absence of a B-pillar creates a nearly panoramic side view, amplifying the sense of spaciousness and openness. The roofline flows seamlessly into a wraparound rear glass, contributing to the car’s sleek and aerodynamic silhouette. At the rear, dual exhausts punctuate the CL’s sporting intentions, and the finely detailed 18-inch alloy wheels are the final flourish on a vehicle that exudes prestige from every angle.
Safety and Technology: Engineering Excellence at its Core
Beneath its stylish skin, the Mercedes Benz CL550 is packed with cutting-edge engineering, with safety taking center stage. The car boasts a robust, energy-absorbing body structure coupled with nine standard airbags, including rear side protection and a driver-side knee airbag, providing comprehensive occupant protection. Furthermore, the CL550 features an updated Pre-Safe system. This proactive safety system detects imminent crash situations and takes preventative measures such as tightening seat belts. Integrated with the Distronic Plus Adaptive Cruise Control, which uses radar to maintain a safe distance from vehicles ahead, Pre-Safe elevates preventative safety to a new level.
For enhanced nighttime driving safety, the optional Night View Assist system utilizes infrared projectors and a camera to generate an enhanced black and white image of the road ahead, displayed for the driver. This innovative technology significantly improves visibility in low-light conditions. The CL550’s foundation on the S-Class sedan platform is evident in its dimensions, with an overall length of 199.4 inches, slightly longer than its predecessor, contributing to its commanding presence and spacious interior.
Interior Opulence and Comfort: A Sanctuary of Luxury
Stepping inside the Mercedes Benz CL550 reveals a cabin that is both handsome and understated, a haven of luxury crafted with leather and rich wood trim. The long, deep dashboard cowl shields the comprehensive gauges and displays from glare, ensuring excellent visibility in all lighting conditions. Elegant touches abound, including a classic analog clock and warm ambient lighting, creating a sophisticated and inviting atmosphere.
The front seats are designed for supreme comfort, offering 14-way power adjustability and heating, with optional ventilation for added climate control. For drivers seeking an even more engaging experience, available Dynamic Seats provide active bolsters that adjust to driving dynamics, offering enhanced support during spirited driving. Standard navigation and an optional rearview camera enhance convenience and safety.
For audiophiles, the CL550 boasts a 600-watt, 11-speaker Harmon Kardon surround sound system, delivering an immersive audio experience. Hands-free phone connectivity with Voice Control and dual-zone climate control are standard, all managed through the COMAND system with its intuitive joystick controller. The rear seats are surprisingly accommodating, well-bolstered and suitable for two adults, making the CL550 a practical choice for weekend getaways. The 12.9 cubic feet of trunk space, with its convenient self-latching lid, provides ample room for luggage.
Performance and Driving Dynamics: Power and Grace
The Mercedes Benz CL550 is more than just a beautiful face; it is engineered to deliver exhilarating performance befitting its grand tourer status. Powering this rear-drive coupe is a robust 5.5-liter double-overhead cam V8 engine equipped with variable valve timing. This powerplant produces 382 horsepower and 391 pound-feet of torque, providing ample thrust for effortless acceleration and cruising.
For those seeking even greater power, the CL range extends to the CL600 with a 5.5-liter bi-turbo V12 producing 510 horsepower, and the AMG variants: the CL 63 boasting 518 horsepower from a V8 and the flagship AMG CL 65 unleashing 604 horsepower from a V12.
The CL550’s V8 engine is paired with a smooth-shifting seven-speed automatic transmission, offering both manual shift capability and Sport and Comfort modes to tailor the driving experience. Performance figures are impressive for a car of its size and weight (4500 pounds). Track testing reveals a 0 to 60 mph sprint in just 6 seconds and a quarter-mile time of 14.1 seconds at 101 mph.
On the road, the V8 engine delivers strong off-the-line performance and builds power rapidly, accompanied by buttery smooth gear changes that enhance the premium driving feel. Handling is superb, aided by enhanced electronic stability and traction control systems and the sophisticated ABC (Active Body Control) active suspension. ABC virtually eliminates body roll and offers a sport mode for even greater stability in dynamic driving situations. Despite these advanced driver aids, the steering provides limited feedback, and aggressive throttle inputs can induce a slight rear-end twitch, promptly managed by the stability control system.
Braking is handled by Mercedes-Benz standard issue four-wheel discs with ABS and Brake Assist, providing confident stopping power. Stops from 60 mph averaged 123 feet, commendable for a vehicle of this weight.
Fuel Economy and Value: Considering the Cost of Luxury
Fuel economy, while perhaps not the primary concern for buyers in this segment, is respectable for a high-performance V8. Government fuel economy ratings are 15 mpg city and 22 mpg highway. Real-world mixed driving yielded 19 mpg on premium fuel during testing.
With a starting price of $100,675 for the CL550 (and a Gas Guzzler Tax of $1,300), this is undoubtedly a luxury purchase. The CL600 starts at an even higher $144,975. While some may view the Mercedes Benz CL-Class as an extravagant indulgence, it represents a dream realized for many. It’s a machine engineered for driving pleasure and luxurious experiences, a testament to automotive passion and engineering prowess. For those who appreciate the finer things in life and desire a car that blends power, luxury, and style, the 2007 Mercedes Benz CL550 remains a compelling choice.
Specifications
- Engine: 5.5-Liter Double-overhead Cam V8
- Horsepower: 382
- Torque: 391 Lb Feet
- 0-60 MPH: 6.0 Seconds
- 1/4 Mile: 14.1 Seconds @ 101 MPH
- 60-0 MPH: 123 Feet
- EPA: 15 MPG City/ 22 MPG Highway
- Mixed Loop: 19 MPG
