G Class had been in manufactured and distributed overseas since 1979. The Mercedes Benz G Class, also known as the Gelaendewagen or G-wagen, is a heavy duty SUV style vehicle with extreme off road capabilities and were initially very popular with the military and those who traveled over rough terrain. Until 2002, quite a few G-wagens made their way to American drivers with the assistance of companies that would import the vehicles, modify them to meet U.S. regulations and sell them to upscale and anxious Americans at a tremendous profit.

Although additional models were made available in Europe by 2002, only one model was made available for sale by Mercedes in the United States in 2002 - the four door G500. The Mercedes Benz G500 made quite an impression both with its mechanical engineering and its formidable design.

Just about every concievable interiror luxury feature available at the time was standard on the 2002 Mercedes Benz G500. The power controls, leather seats, wood trim, premium sound system, and sunroof were reminicent of the interior of a large upscale luxury sedan. The Mercedes Benz G500 had a 112 inch wheel base and a 5.0 liter V8 engine that generated 292 horsepower. The G500 was quick to accelerate and tackled the majority of off road duties with ease. The major competitors to the G500 were the Land Rover Range Rover and Porsche Cayenne, both falling short of the power of of the G500.

Since its introduction to the United States, the Mercedes Benz G Class has not seen an extrodinary amount of change. The 2006 model year saw the introduction of the G55 AMG to the Mercedes Benz G Class lineup in the United States. The Mercedes Benz G class;s competitors now include vehciles that are similar in style and function of the likes of the Mercedes G500. The Mercedes G Class G500 and G55, introduced in 2006, have proved themselves more powerful yet not quite as stylish as the Mercedes brand competitor.

Although the GL Class is large in size, the performance resembles that of a smaller vehicle, delivering quick acceleration and extremely responsive handling. Both the GL320 CDI and the GL450 are capable of handling inclement weather conditions with ease and provide a luxuriously smooth riding driving experience under normal circumstances. The G Class was designed for occasional off road use and frequent highway use where the need to transport seven passengers is often necessary. Although cargo space is also more than ample behind the rear seat, if you do not frequently need to transport a multitude of passengers and move or tow larger items you might want to look into a smaller SUV, like the Mercedes Benz M Class, and save on fuel- something as grand as the G Class does have high fuel costs associated with it.

If you are in need of room for seven and must have the Mercedes Benz GL with its unassuming exterior, superb handling and luxuriously refined interior but wish you did not have to empty your pockets at the gas pumps, you are not alone. Mercedes once again responds to public desires with the GL320 CDI. This all wheel drive, 3.0 liter turbocharged V6 engine runs on diesel fuel and delivers more miles to the gallon than can be obtained with regular gasoline while the V6 still delivers a respectable 215 horsepower.

The second model in the 2007 Mercedes Benz GL Class lineup is the GL450, which also comes equipped with all wheel drive that does not require human intervention. Its 4.7 liter V8 engine is undeniably quick and delivers an impressive 335 horsepower- yet the cabin is exceptionally quiet on the highway.

Push button shift lever controls are conveniently located on the steering wheel column in both the GL450 and the GL320 CDI. A variety of well-appointed and lavish amenities that complement the GL Class and suit all discriminating tastes and driving styles, along with an inspiring and eye appealing design with room for seven promises to more than satisfy the most discerning luxury SUV buyer-or passenger.

There’s also a rear backing camera and a DVD entertainment system available. Both V8 engines offer you plenty of gumption regardless of the task at hand. The base trim turbodiesel V6 can feel a bit heavy starting out, but quickly gains the necessary power to instill driver and passenger confidence. All trims are graced with the alertness and smooth operation of the 7-speed auto tranny. The V8s require premium gasoline and all models are quite thirsty .

The 2009 GL-Class from Mercedes are some of the quietest large-sized SUVs on the planet. Noises from winds, other traffic and all else is handled very well - even the diesel is coffin-quiet at cruising speeds. The large and easily-read gauges make operating the GLs that much more convenient. They are well-placed and very straightforward to understand. Shifting gears is performed via a steering wheel level located on the column. It requires a bit to get used to, but makes up for that by significantly increasing the room that you are granted in the central console area. All interior materials are of optimal quality and present solid, classy looks and feels .

Legroom, shoulder room and headroom are all at least adequate - everyone has plenty of room to do their own thing in both the front and the back. Seating is firm and comfortable and very generously sized. Big doors make entering and exiting simplistic and the step up required to enter is likewise stress-free. The third row of seating is suitable only for children on extended trips .

The 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class of large premium SUVs are some of the finest available from any manufacturer. Fresh styling, excellent safety standards, luxurious comfort and loads of optional features make the GL-Class completely worthy of your serious consideration.

The only significant change in ‘95 was the discontinuation of the E500, which had been test marketed within the confines of limited production. 1996, however, brought about the next generation of E Class.
The second generation of the Mercedes E-Class, the W210, was first produced in 1996 and manufacturing continued until the upgrading of the W210 in 2002. The power and performance of the W210 were almost identical to the W124. The need for a new ‘E’ class generation was attributed primarily to a surprisingly shocking and appealing Mercedes body style make over. The new 1996 E320,E300D, E320 Coupe and the E420 Sedan all now saw an increase of 2 inches in overall length and a 2 plus inch longer wheel base to accommodate a completely new and superbly designed aerodynamic body style. The most intriguing new exterior feature may very well have been the four very striking elliptical headlights.

Between the introduction of the second generation of E Class in 1996 and the introduction of the third generation in 2003, the W210 saw a variety of changes and enhancements. Sport package options were offered and an E55 sport sedan was added to the E Class family of automobiles; enhancements in technology were incorporated into various components and safety features, all wheel drive was offered, and intuitively developed and appropriately performance based engines continued to see impressive positive growth.

In 2003 the third generation of E Class arrived as the W211. The 2003 Mercedes Benz E Class was available as an E320 with 221 horsepower or as the E500 with a 5 liter V8 delivering 302 horsepower. Style and convenient comfort features were also updated with a slightly more refined body style, adaptive suspension, drive dynamic seats that respond by altering cushions according to driving conditions and four zone climate control.

As of the 2007 model year, the W211 is still the current generation of Mercedes Benz E Class and several additional changes have occurred since its introduction in 2003. The most significant changes have occurred under the hood. The E320 was replaced by the more powerful E350 with a 3.5 liter V6 engine, with a sports package option. The E500 has been replaced by the E550 with a 382 horsepower engine and the E55 has been upgraded to the E63 AMG with a 507 horsepower V8 engine. Although typically more costly than the competition, the outstanding driving dynamics, style and luxury continue to make the Mercedes Benz E Class a favorite amongst both industry analysts and luxury car consumers.

The CL550 houses a powerful 382 horsepower, 5.5 liter, V8 engine with a seven-speed automatic transmission that includes the Mercedes-Benz “Touch Shift” manual gear selection technology. With its infrared-reflective glass, chrome exhaust tips, heated front seats that adjust in 14 different ways, and leather upholsterythe CL550 is a brilliant marriage of style and performance. (MSRP $100,675.)

The CL600 is equipped with a 510 horsepower, 5.5 liter, turbocharged V12 engine. A specially designed suspension system delivers exceptional ride control and comfort while the night viewing aids allow the driver to detect objects at a distance of up to 500 feet in near-complete darkness. The contoured front seats feature both heating and a ventilation system, and glass sunroof opens at the touch of the button, and also has tinted glass.

The 2007 Mercedes CL-Class coupes do about as well as expected when it comes to fuel efficiency. CL550 gets an estimated 15 mpg city and 22 highway and can achieve 0-60 mph in 5.4 seconds. The CL600 uses approximately 13 mpg city and 19 highway and can achieve 0-60 mph in 4.5 seconds.

Not too many of the automotive consumers who are deciding right now which of the few grand luxury coupes on the market today to drive back to the estate are basing their decision on the lowest MSRP. These people know what they want and they are looking for an abundance of sensual lines, a drivers car with unparalleled performance, attention to fine detail and an abundance of lavish features-and the Mercedes-Benz CL Class delivers all this and more.

The CL Class of vehicles represents a line of luxury coupes that lavishly accommodate 4 adults very comfortably. The most advanced safety and security features are standard on all models, of which there are 4: CL550, CL600, CL63 AMG and the CL65 AMG. The base model CL550 and the CL600 both come standard with power/heated leather seats, sunroof, power doors and trunk, park assist, 18″ alloy wheels, navigation system and a Harman Kardon premium audio system with 6 disc CD/DVD changer and satellite radio and Bluetooth. The CL600 also features remote start, nighttime vision assist and ventilated front seats with bolsters that automatically inflate to increase passenger support and comfort during fast rides along winding roads. A 5.5 liter V8 powers the CL550, whilst the CL600 propels forth via a 5.5 liter V12.

The CL 63AMG and CL65 AMG are the ultimate in high performance with engines boasting even more horsepower, a sport tuned suspension, 20″ wheels, high performance brakes. The primary difference between the CL63 AMG and the CL65 AMG is under the hood-the former generates 518 horsepower via a 6.3 liter V8 and the CL65 AMG has an outstanding 6.0 liter V12 twin turbo engine that easily delivers 604 horsepower and has attributes such as high speed acceleration, that make this CL a real drivers car and an exquisite performer.

The 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL Class offers a lineup of true full size luxury performance coupe’s- fast, luxurious, expertly engineered and always comfortable. This Mercedes lineup represents a real class act that offers discriminating automotive enthusiasts the opportunity to own one of the world’s finest vehicles.

With superior powertrain options and a wealth of interior features, it’s no wonder that the CL-Class is highly rated among critics. However, the model’s asking price reflects its impressive amenities, and most buyers will simply not be able to afford even one third of the 2009 CL-Class. Also, those looking for extraordinary fuel economy will need to search elsewhere, perhaps giving the Audi S5 a look.

A premium navigation unit is set into the dash and provides drivers with quick directions to their destinations. The navigation unit shares a 7-inch LCD screen with the innovative COMAND System which controls features like the Bluetooth functioning, audio system, climate control, and even the front seat adjustments. Mercedes-Benz has provided buyers with a remarkable night view system that actually captures a black and white image of objects within 500-ft in front of the model to help avoid accidents. Distronic Cruise Control actually automatically decreases on increases speed based on the CL-Class’ vicinity to another vehicle on the road. Drivers can both open and close the model’s trunk with the touch of a button, and noise-reducing infrared glass protects the interior from heat and the sun’s harmful rays while providing a significant reduction in noise.

Under the hood, potential buyers should prepare themselves for the ultimate in power. A 382 horsepower 5.5L V8 is standard and paired with a seven-speed automatic transmission that allows the CL-Class to cruise along at higher speeds in lower rpms. Consumers can upgrade to a remarkable 518 horsepower 6.2L V8 that gets the same transmission as the smaller V8 option. The biggest engine choice comes in the CL600 Coupe trim at a 510 horsepower 5.5L V12 with a five-speed automatic transmission. Mileage estimates are not available for the smaller V8, while the larger V8 gets an unexceptional 11 city MPG and 18 highway MPG. An Electronic Stability Program and four-wheel multilink suspension are standard on all trims.

Safety certainly hasn’t been forgotten in the 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL-Class with an advanced braking system, Adaptive Damping System, and Bi-Xenon headlamps with Active Curve Illumination. The Adaptive Damping System allows drivers to select the amount of air in the suspension, catering the ride to a sportier feel or improved comfort for passengers. Active Curve Illumination adjusts the headlamps so that they point in the direction of a turn, improving visibility and potentially preventing collisions.

Overall, the 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL-Class provides a commanding driving experience. Its $107,900 intro MSRP is out of reach for the typical buyer and, in general, the coupe seems overpriced even with the great number of amenities. However, those that want a status symbol that puts its money in the right places will find that the 2009 CL-Class is a perfect fit.

The CL Class of automobiles was actually first announced and promoted by that name in 1998. However, the style and performance of the model was evident in the temporarily and simultaneously produced Mercedes Benz SEC Class. In 1998, the CL Class name was assigned to the W140 coupes produced from 1998 to 1999 and labeled the CL500 and 600, though the W140 generation of large luxury sedans was available under the SEC name from 1993 through 1998.

The vehicle underwent significant changes beginning in 2000 when the redesigned and redeveloped vehicle was introduced as the W215. Upgrades and enhancements were bestowed upon the W215, and as of 2006 the model could sit four comfortably and incorporated features dominant in the more costly and more distinguished Mercedes S Class in combination with a more compact design. These commanding models were only available in four configurations with all being V8 or V12 versions, although there was also a unique limited edition high performance design, the CL63 AMG, that proudly exhibited a 6.3 liter, 444 horsepower engine.

The most recent generation of Mercedes Benz CL-Class was introduced in 2006. The 2006-2008 model year includes two V8 powered versions, the CL500 (CL550 in some areas) and the CL63 AMG. The CL600 and the CL65 AMG, both V12 models, represent the high end of the lineup, promising to provide an exuberant driving experience and surround you with luxury supreme. Both the CL63 AMG and the CL65 AMG models come standard with multiple position leather sport style seats and 20″ premium wheels. The engine size is really the only differential between the two AMG models, with the CL63 providing 518 horsepower V8 performance and the CL65 AMG featuring a V12 twin turbo 604 horsepower engine.

The CX230 is powered by a 201 horsepower V6 engine with a six-speed manual transmission standard and an optional seven-speed automatic. The performance-based styling includes wrap-around chrome trim, a trunk lid spoiler, and chrome exhaust tips. The interior is outfitted with black maple and hooded chrome.

The C280 has a 228 horsepower V6 engine with the seven-speed automatic transmission and an option for a permanent all-wheel drive five-speed automatic transmission (which takes the MSRP to $35,975). The model’s 10-way power front seats have 3-position memory. Hand-polished wood trims the doors, dashboard and console which also sport polished chrome highlights.

The C350 Sport Sedan features a 268 horsepower V6 engine with a seven-speed automatic transmission with an optional six-speed manual or a seven-speed automatic with “Touch Shift” manual gear selection technology. The AMG-designed lower body work lends an aggressive edge carried over to the black leather-trimmed 3-spoke steering wheel and black and silver leather-trimmed sport shift knob.

The C350 Luxury Sedan is powered by the same engine with the seven-speed transmission or an optional all-wheel drive five-speed transmission (MSRP $41,175) and features all the premier luxury options of the other C-Class models and more.

Additionally, the modifications give the body a 16 percent strength jump in torsion while the curb weight drops a full 18 lbs. Drivers can opt for either the C300 Sport Sedan ($31,975), the C300 Luxury Sedan ($33,675), or the C350 Sport Sedan ($37,275).

The C300 Sport comes equipped with a 3-liter, V6 (24 valves) that produces 228 horsepower at 6,000 rpm. The same engine is used in the C300 Luxury with the C350 Sport jumping to a 3.5-liter V6 generating 268 horsepower. The 300s make the zero to sixty jump in 7.1 seconds; the 350 in 6.1. (Both seven-speed automatic and six-speed manual transmissions are available.)

The major exterior difference in the models is found on the front end with the sport versions featuring an agressive grille emblazoned with the trademark three-pointed star. The luxury grille is more refined with a smaller star sitting on the hood. Inside the sport models look for a metallic finish in low-gloss with luxury models using wood.

The “base” C300, gives a good read on the level of amenities inherent to the line. The multifunction steering wheel puts major controls at the driver’s fingertips. Cabin comfort is maintained by a dual-zone system outfitted with a sun sensor to adjust temperature according to both the direction and intensity of the sun. Driver and passenger enjoy powered seats with eight levels of adjustment and sound via an in-dash AM/FM/CD unit playing over eight speakers (including an input jack and Bluetooth for hands-free phone operation.)

The 2008 Mercedes C Class uses a thorough array of air bags with integrated restraint. Sensors classify the occupants present and deploy the airbags accordingly. Rear seats include the LATCH system for anchoring children’s car seats. Overall the C Class vehicles implement the superior level of design and engineering that has made Mercedes a legend in automotive construction. Marry that to the highest level of interior comfort and technology, and it’s hard not to feel the allure of the line.

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