AutoWeek - 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS 550 (short stint)

Merc1 · **AutoWeek - 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS 550 (short stint) -** 06-27-2008, 06:17 AM

OUR TAKE: This 2009 model features a couple of upgrades, including a new front fascia with two-bar grille, larger side mirrors, a new rear bumper and exhaust tips. These relatively minor changes do little to what I have always thought was a slick looking piece of rolling metal.

The ride is quiet, smooth and composed. Cruising down the expressway and slicing through backstreets is done easily. It takes bumps well and has relatively spirited reflexes for a larger Mercedes sedan. It doesn't provide the sporty feel you get from, say, a BMW 5-Series, but it's a worthy effort.

The V8 muscles the car along nicely and is smooth when paired with the seven-speed automatic, a feature that no doubt helps give it a respectable fuel mileage reading.

Performance between CLS and E is obviously similar--since they come off the same platform--though the high beltline and cocoon-like seating position make the driving experience seem more integrated in the CLS.

Power from this 382-hp V8 is more than sufficient, but there's always room for more and thank goodness for the CLS63 AMG.

As-tested price: $81,905
Drivetrain: 5.5-liter V8; rwd, seven-speed automatic
Output: 382 hp @ 6000 rpm, 391 lb-ft @ 2800-4800 rpm
Curb weight: 4020 lb
Fuel economy (EPA/AW): 17/17.1 mpg
Options: AMG sport package including sport body styling, 18-inch AMG wheels, sport premium-leather steering wheel, black shift paddles ($5,090); premium package I including bi-xenon headlights with Active Curve Illumination, electronic trunk closer, headlamp washing system, heated and ventilated seats, iPod/MP3 media interface, keyless go, power rear sunshade ($4,760); Distronic adaptive cruise control ($2,230)

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