2009 Mercedes-Benz CL-Class: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The biggest 2009 change is the CL 550’s switch to permanent all-wheel drive, turning it into the CL 550 4MATIC. The rest of the range receives a light equipment update rather than a major redesign.
About the 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL-Class
C216/216-series generation (2007-2014), third U.S. model year and before the 2011 model-year exterior and powertrain update
Mercedes-Benz positioned the CL-Class as an S-Class-based, pillarless four-seat luxury coupe built for long-distance comfort and effortless high-speed performance. Its identity centered on a quiet, richly trimmed cabin, substantial V8 or V12 power, advanced suspension and safety technology, and more adult passenger space than most two-door rivals. The model served shoppers who wanted full-size sedan comfort and technology in a rare, dramatic coupe body.
The CL 550 4MATIC is the comfort-focused V8 grand tourer, with 382 horsepower, air suspension, ventilated seats, navigation and premium audio. The CL 600 adds a twin-turbo V12 and more driver-assistance technology, while the CL 63 AMG and 604-hp CL 65 AMG emphasize performance without giving up four-seat luxury.
What changed, by category
2009 Mercedes-Benz CL-Class specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | V12, Twin Turbo, 5.5L | V8, 6.3 Liter | V12, Twin Turbo, 6.0L | V8, 5.5 Liter |
| Transmission | Auto, 5-Spd Touch Shift | Auto, 7-Spd Touch Shift | Auto, 5-Spd Touch Shift | Auto, 7-Spd Touch Shift |
| Drivetrain | RWD | RWD | RWD | 4MATIC 4WD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 11 mpg | 11 mpg | 11 mpg | 14 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 17 mpg | 18 mpg | 17 mpg | 21 mpg |
| Horsepower | 510 hp | 518 hp | 604 hp | 382 hp |
| Torque | 612 lb-ft | 465 lb-ft | 738 lb-ft | 391 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 16.3 cu-ft | 16.3 cu-ft | 16.3 cu-ft | 16.3 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 32.2 in | 32.2 in | 32.2 in | 32.2 in |
| Seats | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Doors | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | ||||
| Alarm System | ||||
| Blindspot Sensors | ||||
| Night Vision System | ||||
| Park Assist | ||||
| Rear View Camera | ||||
| Alloy Wheels | ||||
| Fog Lights | ||||
| Power Moonroof | ||||
| Bluetooth | ||||
| Navigation System | ||||
| Premium Audio | ||||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | ||||
| Heated Front Seats | ||||
| Heated Steering Wheel | ||||
| Leather Seats | ||||
| Massage Front Seat | ||||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | ||||
| Remote Start | ||||
| Ventilated Front Seats | ||||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL-Class?
The biggest change is that the CL 550 became the CL 550 4MATIC, making permanent all-wheel drive its only U.S. drivetrain for 2009.
Does every 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL-Class have all-wheel drive?
No. Permanent all-wheel drive is specific to the CL 550 4MATIC; the CL 600, CL 63 AMG and CL 65 AMG did not receive that drivetrain change.
Did the 2009 CL 600, CL 63 AMG or CL 65 AMG get new engines?
No. The CL 600, CL 63 AMG and CL 65 AMG retained their 2008 engines and basic chassis specifications.
What changed across every 2009 CL-Class trim?
Every 2009 CL-Class gained steering-wheel shift paddles instead of shift buttons and a brake-hold function that keeps the car stationary without continuous pressure on the brake pedal.
What equipment became standard on the 2009 CL 550 4MATIC?
Heated and active-ventilated front seats, keyless entry and push-button start became standard on the 2009 CL 550 4MATIC.