C216 CL Class

MERCEDES-BENZ released its seventh-generation CL-class coupe in April 2007.

The two-door CL-class initially became available in three models – the CL500, CL63 AMG and range-topping V12 bi-turbo CL600.

Compared to its C215 predecessor, both the V8 and V12 engines deliver more power and torque and also offer active body control (ABC) suspension system.

The CL500 delivers 285kW and generates a maximum torque of 530Nm from 2800 rpm, delivering 26 per cent more power and 15 per cent more torque than the existing V8.

The bi-turbo 12-cylinder engine under the bonnet of the CL 600 offers 380kW and 830Nm of power and torque respectively.

The CL63 AMG sports the same 6.2-litre V8 engine shared with other Mercedes models.

The 385kW/630Nm engine is matched to the seamless AMG Speedshift 7G-tronic seven-speed automatic.

Visually, the CL mimics styling cues from the W221 S-class sedan with its bulging wheelarches and eyebrow-style headlights while inside, the cabin is tailored in a manner befitting a luxury two-door coupe. The pillar-less design carries over, with a low, sweeping roofline carrying through to the short bootlid.

At 5065mm long, 1871mm wide and 1418mm high, the body is 75mm longer, 14mm wider and 20mm higher than before, providing cabin space or four occupants.

Boot capacity has increased from 450 litres to 490 litres.

The car's ABC suspension delivers precise handling and ride comfort. Based on sensor signals and using specially designed hydraulic cylinders at the axles, ABC all but entirely eliminates the customary pitch and roll of the body that occur when moving off, cornering and braking.

Mercedes-Benz sold more than 46,000 of the previous-generation CL globally.

In November 2010 the range was given a substantial exterior refresh and a vast array of technological upgrades, including a system that could apply the brakes to prevent the driver hitting a car in their blind spot.

Even so, the most important part of the upgraded CL was the new engine line-up.

Two new V8s, one for the CL500 and the other for the CL63 AMG, were smaller than the units they replaced but both employed twin turbos to deliver plenty of power and impressive fuel efficiency.

The regular V8 engine reduced to 4.7-litres, while the AMG special shrank to 5.5-litres and was in fact the most efficient of the two.