Exterior

The coupe version of the S-Class sedan, the CL-Class sits very near the top of the Mercedes-Benz range, and would be a rare thing in anybody's lineup: a large coupe. And when I say large, I mean it: The CL is roughly 200 inches long. That's the same length as a GMC Acadia — a crossover that seats up to eight people in three rows (see them compared).

Still, the CL is one of the best-looking cars on the road. That's partly due to the fact that Mercedes gave it a stretched-out form; there's a low, sloping roof and no pillars between the front and rear side windows. The car is also fairly wide, and the overall impression is of a very low, wide car. Interestingly, it's not hard to get in and out of the front seats. I never felt like I was falling onto the ground, as I have in other coupes.

The CL was restyled for 2011, with a reworked front end, and LED running lights and taillights. The CL wasn't ugly before, but I think the changes were done well. (Compare a 2011 to a 2010 here.)

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    Slippery road surfaces
    WARNING   The outside temperature indicator is not designed to serve as an ice-warning device and is therefore unsuitable for that purpose. Indicated temperatures just above the freezin ...

    Engaging reverse gear R
    Only shift the automatic transmission to R when the vehicle is stationary. •► When the vehicle is stationary, depress the brake pedal. •► Push the DIRECT SELECT lever up past the f ...

    Important notes on tire pressure
    WARNING   If the tire pressure drops repeatedly, check the tires for punctures from foreign objects and/or whether air is leaking from the valves or from around the rim. The tire temper ...