2011 Mercedes-Benz CL

Most Mercedes-Benzes give their owners industry-leading comfort and technology. The cost of that experience is an expensive base price with expensive options and below-average reliability. The brand produces a wide variety of vehicles for the U.S., including coupes, station wagons, sedans, convertibles, and even two-seat sports cars. Its two- and three-row SUVs that we’ve tested have powerful engines and interiors that are roomy and quiet. Generally, Mercedes-Benz fit and finish, inside and out, is exceptional and helps justify prices. Mercedes-Benz’s EVs range from compact to large three-row SUVs. Across the lineup, controls for the complex climate and infotainment systems aren’t as intuitive as we find in other luxury vehicles. Like most European luxury brands, used Mercedes-Benzes can have expensive out-of-warranty repairs, although Consumer Reports has found used models with above-average reliability.

The CL is the coupe version of the stately S-Class luxury sedan and is just as fast, comfortable and luxurious. The standard active suspension endows the car with a comfortable ride, and handling is agile with restrained body roll and direct, communicative steering. This big two-door allows two adults to sit comfortably in the back. The 5.0-liter V8 supplies abundance of acceleration while the more powerful CL55 and CL600 are even faster. The car comes with the latest in safety and high-tech features. The 2007 redesign brought a 5.5-liter V8 and a twin-turbo V12, and standard AWD in the CL550.