The new Mercedes-Benz CL-Class is characterized by the taught profile of the hood, the dynamic V-shape radiator grille and the curving headlamps - design details that discreetly but effectively emphasize the car's elegant yet powerful lines.The 2011 CL-Class further enforces its position as an automotive masterwork and a technology platform with the most advanced assistance and protection systems.If the driver fails to react even after automatic, partial braking action, this new version of PRE-SAFE® Brake activates maximum braking pressure around 0.6 seconds before an unavoidable collision - this emergency braking action can significantly mitigate the severity of the impact. The PRE-SAFE® Brake thus acts as a kind of "electronic crumple zone".The new Mercedes CL Class also assumes a pioneering role with its drivetrain. Under the hood of the CL550 4MATIC a new V8 biturbo engine with BlueDIRECT technology delivers impressive power. With its 4663 cc displacement, the eight-cylinder engine produces 429 hp so that despite 0.8 liters less displacement, it is still around 12 percent more powerful than its predecessor, which had an output of 382 hp. At the same time, torque was raised from 391 lb-ft to 516 lb-ft - an increase of 32 percent. The new engine achieves a 10-15% improvement in fuel economy and 23% improvement in CO2 emissions. The CL550 4MATIC requires a mere 4.9 seconds to accelerate from a standstill to 60 mph (previous model: 5.4 seconds).The CL600, with its 510 hp 12-cylinder biturbo engine and 612 lb-ft. of torque remains the top-of-the-line model: it accelerates the luxury coupĂ© from a standstill to 60 mph in a breathtaking 4.5 seconds.