The 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL-Class is available in a range of styles, from two-door luxury coupe to two-door luxury sports car. With superior powertrain options and a wealth of interior features, it's no wonder that the CL-Class is highly rated among critics. However, the model's asking price reflects its impressive amenities, and most buyers will simply not be able to afford even one third of the 2009 CL-Class. Also, those looking for extraordinary fuel economy will need to search elsewhere, perhaps giving the Audi S5 a look.

A premium navigation unit is set into the dash and provides drivers with quick directions to their destinations. The navigation unit shares a 7-inch LCD screen with the innovative COMAND System which controls features like the Bluetooth functioning, audio system, climate control, and even the front seat adjustments. Mercedes-Benz has provided buyers with a remarkable night view system that actually captures a black and white image of objects within 500-ft in front of the model to help avoid accidents. Distronic Cruise Control actually automatically decreases on increases speed based on the CL-Class' vicinity to another vehicle on the road. Drivers can both open and close the model's trunk with the touch of a button, and noise-reducing infrared glass protects the interior from heat and the sun's harmful rays while providing a significant reduction in noise.

Under the hood, potential buyers should prepare themselves for the ultimate in power. A 382 horsepower 5.5L V8 is standard and paired with a seven-speed automatic transmission that allows the CL-Class to cruise along at higher speeds in lower rpms. Consumers can upgrade to a remarkable 518 horsepower 6.2L V8 that gets the same transmission as the smaller V8 option. The biggest engine choice comes in the CL600 Coupe trim at a 510 horsepower 5.5L V12 with a five-speed automatic transmission. Mileage estimates are not available for the smaller V8, while the larger V8 gets an unexceptional 11 city MPG and 18 highway MPG. An Electronic Stability Program and four-wheel multilink suspension are standard on all trims.

Safety certainly hasn't been forgotten in the 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL-Class with an advanced braking system, Adaptive Damping System, and Bi-Xenon headlamps with Active Curve Illumination. The Adaptive Damping System allows drivers to select the amount of air in the suspension, catering the ride to a sportier feel or improved comfort for passengers. Active Curve Illumination adjusts the headlamps so that they point in the direction of a turn, improving visibility and potentially preventing collisions.

Overall, the 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL-Class provides a commanding driving experience. Its $107,900 intro MSRP is out of reach for the typical buyer and, in general, the coupe seems overpriced even with the great number of amenities. However, those that want a status symbol that puts its money in the right places will find that the 2009 CL-Class is a perfect fit.