Express entry for coupe

THE redesigned version of Mercedes-Benz’s CL-class made its first Australian motor show appearance at the Melbourne Motor Show, but the newest top-shelf Benz coupe technically made its debut Aussie public appearance the night before at a function to launch the brand’s Airport Express outlet at Tullamarine.

Due to be officially released in late March, the all-new CL is the latest in a long line of Mercedes coupes, many of which have introduced cutting-edge technology.

Pricing was announced in January, at $308,000 for the entry-level CL500 (powered by the new 285kW/530Nm V8), $383,000 for the mad 385kW/630Nm 6.2-litre V8-powered CL63 AMG, and a hefty $389,000 for the sublime twin-turbo V12-powered CL600 (380kW/830Nm) – 0-100km/h acceleration for which drops from 4.8 to 4.6 seconds.

All variants comprise the seven-speed 7G-tronic automatic transmission, along with a Comand system that combines satellite-navigation with DVD and TV functions. The CL63 AMG also features an AMG Racetimer and IWC analogue clock.

At 5065mm long, 1871mm wide and 1418mm high, the new CL is 75mm longer, 14mm wider and 20mm higher than before. Space for four passengers and luggage therefore increases – the latter by 40 litres to 490 litres.

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New CL takes a bow

CL lands with more powerful engines