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2008 Mercedes-Benz CL Coupe caught in the cold
By Ed Hellwig Email
Date posted: 01-26-2006
Thank God for starving photographers. It's the only way we could bring you these latest spy photos of the 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL550 coupe. Sitting in a snowbank for hours on end can't be fun, but we won't argue with the results as these are the best spy pictures yet of Mercedes' flagship coupe.
Built on the same chassis as the 2007 Mercedes S550, the CL coupe is expected to have nearly identical hardware underneath. Standard models will get a 5.5-liter V8 engine with roughly 390 horsepower and a seven-speed automatic transmission. Top-of-the-line CL600 models will likely use Mercedes' twin-turbo V12 engine that develops a little over 500 hp. The CL550 probably won't weigh much less than the S-Class sedan, so expect a 0-to-60 time of around 5.8 seconds.
An adjustable air suspension should give the big coupe impressive handling for its size, but like the current CL coupes the 2008 models will be best suited for long, leisurely drives on straight roads. Look closely at the grille and you'll see what looks to be an unusually large emblem. It most likely houses the latest Distronic active cruise control system used in the S550. The radar placement doesn't look great but in our experience it works well.
Interior amenities will also mimic those found in the S550. A new central control system similar to BMW's iDrive is likely. It controls everything from the stereo to the four-zone climate control system and doesn't frustrate you in the process. Adaptive seats that tilt you into corners will be on the options list along with the techno stuff like satellite radio and an iPod dock.
Look for the debut of the 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL550 at the Paris Motor Show in September.
Still a big coupe, the 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL should be quicker and more athletic than the current model. (Photo courtesy of Brenda Priddy & Company)
Looking a little bit like the SLR supercar from behind, the CL looks like it will forego the humpback trunk of the S-Class sedan. (Photo courtesy of Brenda Priddy & Company)
From this angle the CL's new lines look pretty good. Note the lack of a B-pillar, a signature element of the current model. (Photo courtesy of Brenda Priddy & Company)
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