2000 Mercedes-Benz CL-Class Review
2000 Mercedes-Benz CL-Class Review
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Edmunds' Expert Review
by the Edmunds Experts
Pros
- High-tech suspension system, classic styling, loaded with luxury features.
Cons
- Complex navigation/audio system, cramped rear seat, pricey.
What’s new
2000 marks the introduction of an all-new CL500 that is lighter, less expensive, and more advanced than the previous version.
Edmunds says
An impressive grand touring coupe, but not for techno-phobes who may be frightened away by complicated controls.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2000 Mercedes-Benz CL-Class CL500 2dr Coupe and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.50 per gallon for regular unleaded in Ohio.
Monthly estimates based on costs in Ohio
$247/mo for CL-Class CL500
CL-Class CL500
vs
$219/mo
Avg. Large Car
Vehicle overview
Mercedes has been slashing the costs and curb weights of its product in recent years while substantially upping the technology and gadget quotient. The recently redesigned S-Class, for instance, is lighter, faster, more advanced and cheaper than previous versions. Early reports indicate that the next SL line will benefit from these same design philosophies.
This weight-loss, price-drop, techno-injection methodology also served as the guiding principles for Mercedes' top-of-the-line coupe: the CL500. Everything from the drivetrain to the suspension to the exterior shape has been improved. The new car has a curvaceous shell inspired by the 220/280 SE Coupes of the early 1960s. The raked grille and long, flat hood give the CL a racy look and a .28 drag coefficient. This, combined with a 600-pound drop in curb weight and an advanced suspension system, means that the CL's racy image extends beyond its appearance.
Powering the CL500 is a 5.0-liter, SOHC 24-valve V8 engine that delivers 302 horsepower and 339 foot-pounds of torque to a five-speed automatic transmission. With its broad torque band and an adaptive transmission that adjusts to meet driver needs, the CL500 never feels slow. For those wishing to make their own up- and downshift decisions, a "Touch Shift" manual mode can be engaged for maximum gear control.
Perhaps the CL's most impressive feature is its Active Body Control (ABC), which uses a hydraulic servo mounted atop each coil spring to control body roll, dive and squat. Toss it into a tight corner and the CL will remain flat and composed, laughing at your efforts to produce unwanted wallow or pitch. Settings for ABC include normal and sport to accommodate different levels of driving enthusiasm.
The CL's high-tech pedigree continues inside where 14-way adjustable heated and ventilated seats, complete with a "pulse" massage mode, await front passengers. Dual-zone climate controls are easy to operate, but the audio and navigation systems are all combined into Mercedes' trademark COMAND control unit. This system is both praised and ridiculed by the Edmunds.com staff, depending on their level of patience for its undeniably complex interface. You can love it or hate it, but don't expect to understand it after just a few minutes of fiddling. COMAND commands much dedication to appreciate.
Only 2,500 CLs will be offered to the American buying public this year. For roughly $10,000 less you could have a Jaguar XKR that boasts greater sex appeal and horsepower, but less advanced gadgetry. We like the CL500 and consider it a tour de force in terms of luxury and technology. But with the a 12-cylinder CL600 due to hit American shores in the near future, we'd probably either buy the Jag now or wait for the more powerful version of the CL.
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the Used 2000 Mercedes-Benz CL-Class.
5 star(100%)
4 star(0%)
3 star(0%)
2 star(0%)
1 star(0%)
3 reviews
Trending topics in reviews
Most helpful consumer reviews
4.5 out of 5 stars
Great Car, But...
jtw, 09/02/2002
2000 Mercedes-Benz CL-Class CL500 2dr Coupe
I've enjoyed this car for its handling
and styling, but have experienced too
many little problems, including a
broken cup holder, and a "check engine"
light that comes on for things the
dealer says are minor, involving the
evaporative system, but still take time
to deal with and detract from the
pleasure of ownership. MB's roadside
service is great, and they will give …
you directions when you're in the
unknown parts of the country.
4.88 out of 5 stars
Good things happen to good people
The Man, 10/10/2002
2000 Mercedes-Benz CL-Class CL500 2dr Coupe
I bought this car sight unseen and it
is everything I had imagined. It rides
like a dream and is really fun to
drive. It does feel a little light
compared to my XJR. It is truly a dream
come true!!!
4.88 out of 5 stars
Good things happen to good people
The man, 10/10/2002
2000 Mercedes-Benz CL-Class CL500 2dr Coupe
I bought this car sight unseen and it
is everything I had imagined. It rides
like a dream and is really fun to
drive. It does feel a little light
compared to my XJR. It is truly a dream
come true!!!
2000 CL-Class Highlights
Engine Type | Gas |
---|---|
Combined MPG | 17 MPG |
Cost to Drive | $247/month |
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 12.3 cu.ft. |
Drivetrain | rear wheel drive |
Safety
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
- Small Overlap Front Driver-Side TestNot Tested
- Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side TestNot Tested
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – Original0
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Side Impact Test – OriginalNot Tested
- Side Impact Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Roof Strength TestNot Tested
- Rear Crash Protection / Head RestraintNot Tested
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