Mythology often blurs lines, creating fascinating hybrids. Think of the minotaur, a blend of man and bull, or the mermaid, part fish, part human. In the automotive world, the 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class embodies a similar concept: a “four-door coupe” that daringly merges the sleek aesthetics of a two-door coupe with the everyday usability of a sedan. It’s a concept grounded firmly in reality, not myth.
Beneath its captivating, sloping roofline and elegantly sculpted body lies the heart of a modified E-Class. While it stretches longer than the E-Class, the CLS maintains a comparable weight. The inclusion of standard semi-active Airmatic suspension plays a crucial role in delivering on the “coupe” promise of engaging driving dynamics. This sophisticated system automatically adapts to minimize body roll, pitch during acceleration, and dive under braking, contributing to a surprisingly agile experience for a four-door vehicle. Powering the 08 Mercedes Cls550 is a robust 5.5-liter V8 engine, borrowed from Mercedes-Benz’s flagship S-Class. For those craving even more exhilaration, the CLS63 AMG boasts a formidable 6.2-liter V8, unleashing a staggering 507 horsepower. Both engine options deliver impressive acceleration, rivaling the performance of many dedicated sports cars.
While the four doors of this Mercedes undeniably enhance practicality, inherent to the coupe design are certain compromises in everyday usability. The stylishly narrow side windows and dramatically raked windshield, while contributing to its sleek profile, do impact visibility. Furthermore, entering and exiting the CLS requires a bit more dexterity compared to traditional sedans. Despite offering a slightly increased rear-seat legroom over the E-Class, the CLS’s fastback roofline intrudes upon rear headroom. Taller passengers might find the rear compartment a bit confining.
The CLS’s distinctive approach has remained largely unmatched by other luxury automakers, placing it in a unique segment without direct competitors. The 08 Mercedes CLS550, while sporting a different body style, outpowers and outprices similarly sized rivals like the BMW 550i and Audi A6 4.2. Stepping up to the CLS63 AMG brings it closer in performance territory to the BMW M5. However, Mercedes-Benz’s own E63 AMG provides nearly identical performance within a more conventional and practical sedan body. The S-Class, while positioned in a similar price bracket, represents a fundamentally different vehicle class altogether.
For drivers drawn to the allure of coupe styling but needing the accessibility of four doors for passengers or family, the 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class presents a compelling solution. It masterfully blends potent engines, captivating design, a meticulously crafted interior, and the convenience of four doors. While some might categorize it as a vehicle straddling categories, much like the captivating creatures of mythology, the 08 Mercedes CLS550 stands as an undeniably desirable and innovative creation.
