2001 Mercedes-Benz CL-Class Review
2001 Mercedes-Benz CL-Class Review
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Used CL-Class for sale
Appraise This CarMercedes-Benz CL-Class model years
Mercedes-Benz CL-Class types
- Coupe
- CL55 AMG
See Edmunds pricing data
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Edmunds' Expert Review
by the Edmunds Experts
Pros
- High-tech features, classic styling, comfortable long-distance cruiser for two.
Cons
- Complex navigation/audio system, cramped rear seat, pricey.
What’s new
The CL600 makes its debut with a 362-horsepower V12. Distronic cruise control, a high-tech system using radar, braking and acceleration to maintain a specified distance from other vehicles, is standard on the CL600 and optional on other CL models. Web-based services, such as e-mail and stock quotes, will also be on board for the 2001 model year.
Edmunds says
Those who liked last year's car but wished for even more power and status can rejoice in the AMG-tweaked CL55 and the V12-powered CL600.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2001 Mercedes-Benz CL-Class CL500 2dr Coupe (5.0L 8cyl 5A) 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 $4.30 per gallon for premium unleaded in Utah.
Monthly estimates based on costs in Utah
$313/mo for CL-Class CL500
CL-Class CL500
vs
$216/mo
Avg. Large Car
Vehicle overview
Mercedes has been slashing the costs and curb weights of its vehicles in recent years while substantially upping the technology and gadget quotient. This weight-loss, price-drop, techno-injected, performance-minded methodology also served as the guiding principles for Mercedes' top-of-the-line coupe: the CL. The car has a curvaceous shell inspired by the 220/280 SE Coupes of the early 1960s. The rakish 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-literSOHC 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.
A higher performance version of the CL500, dubbed the CL55, comes with a tighter suspension and a larger 5.5-liter V8 that makes 354 horsepower. This AMG-enhanced engine punts the CL55 from zero-to-60 in about 5.7 seconds.
Those seeking the ultimate CL will want to step up to the CL600. With a 362-horsepower V12 and every conceivable high-tech gadget as standard equipment, the CL600 is not for the faint of wallet. A special cylinder cut-out system will shut down half of the V12's cylinders under normal driving conditions, reducing fuel consumption and emissions by as much as 20 percent.
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.
A new technological feature for 2001 is an intelligent cruise control system, dubbed Distronic. After the driver establishes a preset distance that he wishes to maintain between his CL and other vehicles, an on-board radar unit will scan the surrounding environment and utilize up to 20 percent of the CL's braking ability to maintain this distance from other automobiles.
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, navigation and new-for-2001 Web-based 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. We like the CL line and consider it a tour de force in terms of luxury and technology. Still, if you're not into the latest high-tech gadgetry, and your frustration with COMAND is as high as it is for some of our editors, we think the less expensive Jaguar XKR makes a suitable (and seductive) alternative.
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the Used 2001 Mercedes-Benz CL-Class.
5 star(73%)
4 star(20%)
3 star(7%)
2 star(0%)
1 star(0%)
15 reviews
Trending topics in reviews
Most helpful consumer reviews
4.75 out of 5 stars
Head Turning Style and Mercedes Quality
BenzOwner, 10/09/2010
2001 Mercedes-Benz CL-Class CL500 2dr Coupe (5.0L 8cyl 5A)
Purchased this car from Park Place Bedford,TX. I had always wanted a Benz, saw this one and fell in love. This car is in tip top shape in every way. It looks brand new inside and out, and my purchase and service experiences have been the best. This dealership treats you like royalty in every way! (Thanks Brian) I do wish the fuel economy was better, but with power and performance like no … other its better than expected. Sound system is top notch, and all the options are user friendly. This care is impressive in every way. Mercedes was way ahead of its time when they built this dream machine!
3.75 out of 5 stars
Don't Do It !!!
Ian Bourne, 08/20/2009
2001 Mercedes-Benz CL-Class CL600 2dr Coupe (5.8L 12cyl 5A)
I bought this car in 2003 and kept it 5 years. It was $118 new, I paid $66k, I sold it in late 2008 for $19,500. Is that a clue ? Great looking , great driving and the absolute worst reliability. Mostly electronics, although the trunk brake light popped off when my wife closed the lid gently. the V-12 side emblem broke it's plastic self off twice while I gently washed it. The car … developed oil leaks, my " Nice People, Nice cars dealer " quoted $9,200 for that. Suspensions tend to collapse also I was told. When we sold it it only had 42k miles on the clock. Oh, We also replaced a computer fuel feed unit, $1,400. You'll fall in love but be ready for an expensive divorce !!!
4.25 out of 5 stars
Disappointed owner
jsloan, 07/07/2004
2001 Mercedes-Benz CL-Class CL55 AMG 2dr Coupe (5.4L 8cyl 5A)
15 visits for repair, most on computer
issues. 1 suspension failure. If the
car was reliable, it would be my
favorite car of all types I have
owned. There appears to be no end to
the computer issues with this car.
4.75 out of 5 stars
Loved it and love it still
pinkfloyd1962, 09/13/2007
2001 Mercedes-Benz CL-Class CL500 2dr Coupe (5.0L 8cyl 5A)
I have my car since new. It has been a nice experience and I have decided to keep it, instead of trading it in for the new 500. I like the styling of my car much better. It is dark blue with light grey interior. I have not had any trouble with it. The only thing now that I miss, is the right connection to my IPOD which I have to do with the FM transmitter, which is not stylish and … unreliable. My car is pretty, fast and chic and I would not change it. The only things I have done are the regular mantainence programm and not at the MB dealership, but with a specialist for european cars, cheaper and better.
We have a limited number of reviews for the 2001 Mercedes-Benz CL-Class, so we've included reviews for other years of the CL-Class since its last redesign.
2001 CL-Class Highlights
Coupe
CL500
Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee | $87,500 |
---|---|
Engine Type | Gas |
Combined MPG | 17 MPG |
Cost to Drive | $313/month |
Seating | 4 seats |
Drivetrain | rear wheel drive |
Warranty | 4 years / 50,000 miles |
Safety
Key safety features on the CL-Class include:
- Alarm
- Stability Control
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