2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS550 Review

The Mercedes-Benz CLS is a bit of everything. The first thing that strikes you, obviously, is the unique silhouette, the finesse of which has been unmatched for many years. Then, after a while, you realize that the CLS is essentially the RuPaul of the auto industry; no one knows for sure if it's a sedan or a coupe. And when you finally turn the key and depress the throttle, the lovely purr of the 5.5-liter V8 turns into an emphatic roar.

Seldom do automobiles that are as beautiful and competent as the 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS550 come along.

World-class design is undoubtedly the top selling argument of the Mercedes-Benz CLS because, let's face it, this car is basically a dressed-up E-Class. Of course, I should probably avoid using the word "car" and instead refer to it as a "wheeled sculpture". The minor revisions to the exterior design for 2009 all work to emphasize the aesthetic excellence of the CLS. Truth is, most people would never know the grille, rear bumper, taillights and trapezoidal exhaust tips are new unless they read the automaker's literature.

The inside is just as stunning as the outside. The massive dashboard with Burl Walnut wood trim (matte) is simply magnificent. The material selection and layout create an extremely cozy and luxurious environment. The lines are sleek and almost as sexy as Eva Padberg's. As for upgrades, Mercedes finally incorporated a three-spoke steering wheel, which is more ergonomic than the old one, while making the instruments easier to read. Everything else stays intact.

Sitting in a Mercedes-Benz CLS is kind of an honor. You feel like a member of the Royal Family with all this first-grade Nappa leather, not to mention the genuine wood inlays and chrome pieces here and there. Plus, attention to detail is reminiscent of a jeweller's. The instrumentation is beyond reproach and the controls are all pleasant to manipulate. Storage compartments come in handy (although there could have been more of them), especially the one located underneath the front passenger seat.

Of course, it goes without saying that all the bells and whistles of a true premium sedan are included in the 2009 CLS. Expect to find a COMAND-APS system with navigation, Harman-Kardon LOGIC7 audio, Electronic Stability Program (ESP) with ABS and traction control (ASR) and just about every other gadget Mercedes-Benz has to offer.

Comfort, however, is not evenly distributed between all occupants. The front buckets are divinely plush and soothing. Side support is adequate, although thigh support could have been more generous. The rear passengers, meanwhile, don't enjoy that much comfort, even with two individual seats. The sloping roofline significantly reduces the amount of headroom available in the back. Furthermore, access to these seats proves quite complicated.

The instrumentation is beyond reproach and the controls are all pleasant to manipulate.