Mercedes-Benz CL

Driving
The CL is based on the S-Class saloon, so it's no surprise to learn it doesn't boast sports coupe-like agility through corners. However, equipped with the same active suspension system found on the S-Class, it doesn't allow its weight to cause excessive roll, while body control and grip are very impressive. But for all its stability and dynamic abilities, the CL feels remote. The ride, though, it virtually flawless - the way the suspension absorbs potholes and copes with crests is amazing, and the suppression of road noise is second to none. Once on the motorway, the CL cruises at a mere 1,500-rpm, emitting only 66dB of noise, so the ride and engine combine to offer world-class refinement. And what an engine line-up: The CL 63 AMG range-topper is awesome and the CL 600 is a 517bhp powerhouse, but the 5.5-litre V8 in the CL 500 is also sublime. It's very refined and silky smooth - in fact, it's so hushed that there's very little sensation of speed, and it's easy to forget how fast it is. For the record, even at our damp test track, the CL 500 hit 60mph in 6.1 seconds.

Marketplace
Mercedes claims the CL is the modern day equivalent to classic 1920s coach-built machines. It's certainly huge. It's only 144mm shorter than the S-Class it shares underpinnings with, and it offers similar luxury. And these dimensions present a challenge for the stylists, because making a car of this size look sleek is not an easy task. Viewed from the front, the CL's bluff noise certainly isn't pretty. But the curved front wheelarches stand out, and from the doors back, the body tapers in a classic coupe manner. Central B-pillars are eschewed too which, when coupled with the frameless windows, gives a very elegant look. All of this comes with a high-line price tag, of course, which places the CL in Bentley Continental GT territory. The cheapest model is the CL 500, but even this is nearly the price of a BMW 3-Series more than a Jaguar XK!

Owning
Build quality is up to the levels you would expect of a car in this price bracket. Beautifully crafted shut lines and chrome surrounds for the windows add definition to the shape, while the large doors mean access to all four seats is easy. However, they're so long that opening them in tight parking spaces can be difficult. Inside, the layout is similar to the S-Class's, which means you get impeccable construction and attention to detail, both in terms of materials and ergonomics. The curved design of the dashboard is attractive and a revised central tunnel distinguishes it from the S-Class. Extremely comfortable seats have a huge range of adjustment, and there's lots of room; the CL is a genuine four-seater. The pair of rear chairs are supportive, and the 490-litre boot means there's plenty of luggage capacity as well. Be prepared for very steep running costs, however.