2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class

Nobody executes the combination of performance and luxury like Mercedes-Benz, and the 2009 CLS-Class represents Mercedes-Benz' take on those two attributes in a mid-size sedan. The interior dimensions are on the small size--particularly in the rear seat--so Mercedes-Benz has elected to call it a "4-door coupe."

Both CLS coupes are motivated by impressive engines. The 5.5L V8 in the CLS550 generates a more-than-respectable 382 horsepower, while the CLS63 AMG crams an envy-creating 6.3L V8 engine under the hood, capable of kicking out 507 horses. The transmission in both trims is Mercedes-Benz' seven-speed automatic.

Both CLS-Class models feature an air suspension system Mercedes-Benz calls Airmatic. The car floats on pneumatic spring-struts and variable rate shocks. The driver can select both suspension sport mode and ride height. The CLS-Class will also automatically lower at speed to improve aerodynamic efficiency.

The interior is all Mercedes-Benz-style luxury. Both front seats are trimmed in leather, have ten-way power adjusters, and feature three-position memory settings. Climate control keeps no fewer than four zones comfortable. A high-end harmon/kardon stereo system is paired with Sirius satellite radio so drivers can even eliminate annoying ads from their decompression chamber.

The P01 Package includes an iPod interface, a power trunk closer, xenon headlights, a power-operated rear sunshade, ventilated seats. and a clever curve-illumination feature that helps the driver "see" around bends in the road. Also included is Mercedes-Benz' Keyless Go system.

Those looking for added performance on the CLS550 will be interested in the AMG Sport Package, which includes performance tires and steering-wheel shift paddles. Mercedes-Benz' adaptive Distronic cruise control system is an available option, as is the brand's Parktronic parking assist system.

The CLS63 is the bigger brother, but the only major difference is the engine, which is a hefty 6.3L V8. Handling is improved via larger stabilizer bars, 19-inch AMG wheels, and AMG six-piston front brakes. The steering wheel is a special AMG design.

On the CLS63, the Performance Package includes a limited-slip differential, and a special AMG compound brake system.
The two Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class 4-door "coupes" undergo modest changes for 2009. The CLS550. Bluetooth is now standard on both models. The two Designo packages and the P02 package, all offered in 2008, are no longer available. The P01 Package's contents have been reworked to include an iPod interface, a power trunk closer, xenon headlights with curve illumination, Keyless Go, a power-operated rear sunshade, and ventilated seats.
Big car in a smallish package; luxurious appointments; mountains of power and performance.
Mercedes-Benz is all about comfort, luxury, and refinement, and the 2009 CLS-Class executes all of these exceedingly well. The CLS-Class isn't a large vehicle and the word "sedan" doesn't seem to fit this smallish car with four doors, so Mercedes-Benz calls it a four-door coupe. A computer-controlled 7-speed automatic transmission is mated to a large V8 in the CLS550, while the upper-level CLS63 will please performance enthusiasts with its very powerful 6.3L V8 engine that generates 507 horsepower. The brakes, suspension, wheels, and even steering wheel are designed by AMG. The result is a very comfortable performance car.