MERCEDES-BENZ UNVEILS ALL-NEW CL COUPE IN NEW YORK

New S-Class Also Makes Area Debut At New York Show

NEW YORK - The all-new Mercedes-Benz flagship CL coupe made its U.S. debut at press activities preceding the New York International Auto Show, April 3-11 at Manhattan's Jacob Javits Convention Center. The all-new premium luxury coupe, which made its international debut at the Geneva Motor Show earlier this month, will reach Mercedes-Benz retail centers in the U.S. early next year.

The new coupe will be offered exclusively as the CL500 model in the U.S. market, powered by a new generation 302-horsepower 5.0-liter V8. A second CL model equipped with a new-generation V12 may be added in the following year. The limited-production CL500 is expected to be priced at or below the outgoing model, in line with Mercedes' ongoing value strategy.

The new coupe bears such Mercedes design hallmarks as four distinctive oval headlights, with a unique interpretation that underscores the exclusive and fine design. Rounded fenders, a delicate yet dynamic roofline and a wrap-around rear window highlight this jewel of a coupe.

Inside, the all-new CL from Mercedes-Benz will take luxury and convenience to a level befitting a 21st century flagship, with lavish appointments and integration of navigation and entertainment systems.

ABC Spells Active Body Control

The new Mercedes-Benz CL coupe will feature revolutionary Active Body Control (ABC), a high performance active suspension system that virtually eliminates body roll and pitch during cornering, braking and acceleration. For years, automotive engineers have dreamed of active suspension to counter-act the body roll caused by cornering, but technical limitations have held them, since viable active suspension depends on advanced electronic controls and very fast-acting hydraulic servos at each wheel.

The driver will experience the benefits of ABC not only in terms of superb, sporty handling, but in a new level of ride comfort, as well. ABC makes use of high-speed servos and sensors to give the system its split-second reaction time.

Leaner and Lighter

Exceptional aerodynamics (a drag coefficient or CD of 0.28) and intelligent lightweight design contribute to superb driving performance. The new model is more than 500 pounds lighter than its predecessor, thanks to the use of a variety of materials such as aluminum, steel, plastics, and magnesium. The all-new Mercedes-Benz CL coupe is also three inches shorter and over two inches narrower than its predecessor, but without sacrificing occupant comfort.

Technology Abounds

In addition to standard-equipment ABC active suspension and ESP stability control, the new CL coupe will come with a number of new advanced-technology standard features, among them:

• TELE-AID: a standard automatic call system with precise vehicle location via Global Satellite
  Positioning (GPS), emergency response and other enhanced services.
• COMAND: (Cockpit Management and Data System) for controlling the standard satellite-based navigation system, Bose premium audio system and optional telephone/CD changer.
• Voice recognition: a new-generation system which recognizes normal conversational
  commands for controlling the phone in hands-free operation.
• Head protection curtain airbags: provide occupants with high level of protection in side
  collisions (in conjunction with standard door-mounted side airbags).
• Automatic climate control: includes sensors for humidity, air pollutants and sun strength.
• DISTRONIC: Radar-controlled cruise control maintains a set distance from vehicles ahead.
• Ventilated front seats: fans in front seats enhance driver and passenger comfort in both cold
  and warm weather.

Like Mercedes-Benz flagship coupes before it, the all-new CL will undoubtedly take its place among the most desirable cars in the world, combining timeless design and high performance with the Mercedes-Benz safety standard, advanced technology and, of course, unparalleled luxury.