Mercedes-Benz has consistently pushed the boundaries of automotive technology, and the 2009 CL550 coupe stands as a testament to this ambition. Following closely on the heels of the technologically advanced S-Class sedan of the same era, the CL550 boasts a beautifully sculpted design and a suite of impressive features. Sharing innovations like night vision, massage seats, and adaptive cruise control with its S-Class sibling, the CL550 was positioned as a high-tech marvel in the luxury coupe segment, commanding a price tag well over $100,000 when fully equipped.
The 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL550, showcasing its elegant exterior design and advanced technological features.
However, even with Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to innovation, the 2009 CL550 reveals a dichotomy: cutting-edge features alongside some surprisingly outdated in-cabin technology. While boasting new gadgets like blind-spot detection and the availability of 4Matic all-wheel drive, the CL550’s iPod interface and Bluetooth integration fall short of expectations, especially when considering its premium status and price point. This review delves into the driving experience, cabin technology, performance, and overall value proposition of the 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL550.
On the Road: A Blend of Comfort and Power
Setting off from San Francisco, the 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL550 immediately impresses with its luxurious ride quality. The massage seats, easily adjustable via a prominent metal console knob, offer a welcome respite, providing customizable levels of intensity. However, initial attempts to pair an iPhone via Bluetooth proved unsuccessful, highlighting the system’s limited compatibility. The only option for iPod connectivity was through a glove compartment connector, which presented a rudimentary interface. Music control was relegated to basic skip forward/back functions, displayed minimally on the instrument cluster, a stark contrast to the sophisticated technology elsewhere in the vehicle.
Navigating onto the lower deck of the Bay Bridge presented an opportunity to engage the night vision feature. With a press of a button, the speedometer display transformed into a video feed from the car’s night vision system, projecting an enhanced view of the road ahead. This technology, while not entirely new to Mercedes-Benz, remains a captivating feature, enhancing visibility in low-light conditions. Adding to the suite of driver aids, the CL550 introduces blind-spot detection. A discreet red triangular icon illuminates in the side mirror whenever another vehicle occupies the blind spot, providing a clear visual warning.
On the open freeway, the CL550 excels in delivering a supremely comfortable ride. With the adjustable suspension set to “Comfort,” the car effortlessly absorbs bumps and imperfections in the road surface. The smooth power delivery from the 5.5-liter V-8 engine, coupled with the seamless shifts of the seven-speed transmission, creates a relaxed and refined cruising experience. Fuel economy, as indicated by the trip computer at 17.3 mpg, is not a strong point, but the CL550 compensates with a substantial 23.8-gallon fuel tank, ensuring a generous driving range.
Leaving the freeway behind for winding roads through the Oakland hills, the CL550’s character shifts. Switching the suspension to “Sport” mode, while not dramatically altering ride quality, prepares the car for more dynamic driving. In corners, the CL550’s weight becomes apparent, and the steering, while responsive, feels somewhat over-assisted. Body roll is well-controlled, however. The transmission, in automatic mode, is not aggressively eager to downshift, prompting the use of the steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters for optimal control. Engaging lower gears brings the V8 engine to life, producing a satisfying purr and ample power for exiting corners. The presence of 4Matic all-wheel drive inspires confidence, particularly in light rain conditions, providing sure-footed traction. Even in tighter corners, the CL550 maintains composure, exhibiting a predictable amount of understeer when pushed.
In the Cabin: Advanced Driver Aids, Lagging Core Tech
Mercedes-Benz has long been recognized for its prowess in driver assistance systems, and the 2009 CL550 is generously equipped in this area. However, the in-cabin technology, specifically navigation, Bluetooth integration, and digital music interfaces, reveals a less polished experience. These core tech features feel somewhat underdeveloped compared to the advanced driver aids and overall luxury of the vehicle.
The navigation system in the 2009 CL550 gains traffic reporting for the model year, but it lacks dynamic rerouting capabilities. While the maps are visually appealing and route calculations are swift and accurate, the system is reactive rather than proactive regarding traffic congestion. Drivers must manually monitor the screen for traffic alerts and initiate detours, a less intuitive approach compared to systems that automatically suggest alternative routes. Furthermore, the point-of-interest search functionality is limited, requiring users to scroll through extensive lists instead of allowing keyword searches within categories.
Bluetooth phone compatibility is another area where the CL550 disappoints. Despite Mercedes-Benz’s eventual adoption of Bluetooth technology, the 2009 CL550 supports a very limited selection of phones. Attempts to connect both a Samsung phone and an iPhone proved unsuccessful, highlighting a significant limitation for users reliant on seamless smartphone integration.
For audio, the CL550 features a Harman Kardon sound system, boasting 600 watts of power distributed across 11 speakers and utilizing Logic 7 processing for enhanced surround sound from stereo sources. Audio quality is generally high, with clear high frequencies, though the midrange can sound slightly muddy. Available audio sources include Sirius satellite radio, a six-disc DVD/MP3 CD changer, and the aforementioned subpar iPod interface.
Beyond these core cabin tech elements, the CL550 shines with advanced driver assistance systems. Distronic Plus adaptive cruise control effectively maintains a set distance from preceding vehicles, even in stop-and-go traffic, smoothly slowing the car down to speeds below 20 mph. However, its acceleration response when changing lanes to overtake slower traffic could be quicker. The system also incorporates a collision warning feature, providing audible alerts and initiating pre-collision preparations if a potential collision is detected. The night vision system, projecting an infrared image onto the instrument cluster, enhances nighttime visibility, offering an extra layer of safety. The newly introduced blind-spot detection system proves highly effective, providing clear visual warnings in the side mirrors when vehicles are present in blind spots, and further alerts if the driver signals a lane change in such situations.
Under the Hood: Potent V8 and Refined AWD
Powering the 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL550 is a robust 5.5-liter V-8 engine. This naturally aspirated, double-overhead cam aluminum powerplant produces 382 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 391 pound-feet of torque, available from 2,800 to 4,800 rpm. This engine delivers strong low-end torque, effectively moving the CL550’s 4,639 pounds with authority. Mercedes-Benz claims a 0-to-60 mph acceleration time of 5.4 seconds, underscoring the CL550’s impressive performance for a luxury coupe of its size.
The seven-speed automatic transmission is well-matched to the V8 engine, providing smooth and seamless shifts in automatic mode. For more engaged driving, the steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters offer manual control, though there is a slight delay between paddle inputs and gear changes.
Equipping the reviewed CL550 is Mercedes-Benz’s 4Matic all-wheel-drive system, a first for the CL-Class. This system has been refined to minimize weight, adding only 154 pounds to the vehicle. A multiplate clutch in the center differential is designed to mimic the behavior of a limited-slip differential, enhancing traction. While requiring deliberate and irresponsible driving to truly test its limits on public roads, the 4Matic system provides a noticeable sense of stability and control, particularly in wet or slippery conditions. On winding, damp roads, the CL550 exhibited no signs of losing traction, even when pushed through corners.
The steering feel, while light and responsive for easy maneuverability, prioritizes ease of use over ultimate feedback. Enthusiasts seeking a more communicative steering experience might find it slightly lacking.
Fuel economy for the CL550’s V8 is predictably not a highlight, with EPA ratings of 14 mpg in the city and 21 mpg on the highway. Real-world mixed driving yielded an average of 17.3 mpg, aligning with EPA estimates. Despite its fuel consumption, the CL550 achieves a ULEV II emissions rating, surpassing minimum emissions standards.
Conclusion: A Luxurious Coupe with Tech Trade-offs
The 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL550 4Matic carries a base price of $107,000. Many desirable features, such as navigation and the Harman Kardon sound system, are included as standard equipment. Optional extras on the test vehicle, including Distronic Plus adaptive cruise control, blind-spot detection, night vision, massage seats, and the iPod kit, pushed the total price to $122,910, inclusive of a $1,300 gas guzzler tax.
While the 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL550 impresses with its striking design, powerful performance, and advanced driver-assistance technologies, its outdated iPod interface and limited Bluetooth compatibility are notable drawbacks, especially at its price point. For buyers prioritizing cutting-edge in-cabin technology, competitors like the Lexus LS 600h or even considering alternatives like the Maserati GranTurismo, might present more compelling options.
Pros:
- Impressive and elegant body design.
- Cutting-edge features like night vision and massage seats.
- Effective blind-spot detection system.
- Available 4Matic all-wheel-drive for enhanced stability.
- Powerful V8 engine and smooth performance.
- Comfortable and luxurious ride.
Cons:
- Subpar iPod interface and limited Bluetooth phone compatibility.
- Navigation system lacks dynamic detour feature.
- Mediocre fuel economy.
- Steering feel could offer more feedback.
The Bottom Line:
The 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL550 delivers a compelling blend of luxury, performance, and advanced technology, but its outdated in-cabin tech interfaces detract from an otherwise impressive package.
