2012 Mercedes CL-Class CL 550

The Mercedes-Benz CL is a supercoupe. It offers super handling, super acceleration, and super luxury all in one package. The CL's unique pillarless side glass gives an uninterrupted look into an exquisite interior. The front seats are both heated and ventilated and offer massage capability, while the sport seats in the AMG models feature active side bolsters that enlarge when the car is turning to enhance lateral support. By our measure, the entry-model CL550 is only for those who will drive their CL year-round in snowy climes--it is the only CL model with all-wheel drive. The CL we'd own is the eight-cylinder CL63 AMG from Mercedes' performance division. Last year, AMG's signature 6.2-liter V-8 was replaced by a 5.5-liter twin-turbo V-8 good for 536 hp. Opt for the AMG performance package, though, and power rises to 563 hp as torque jumps 74 lb-ft to a total of 664 lb-ft. The output boost is enough for the CL63 to match the 0-to-60-mph time of the CL65 AMG at 4.3 seconds. For customers who demand the ultimate in prestige, Mercedes offers not one but two smooth-spinning V-12 engines. It's worth noting that a top-spec CL sits in Bentley and Maserati territory when it comes to price, but we can't think of a compelling argument to choose either of those cars over the Merc. The CL's handling is remarkable, especially given its size--and even the base V-8 engine is powerful enough for the CL to keep up with sports cars on winding back roads.