Mercedes-Benz recently announced that when the 2009 range of its CL coupes goes on sale later on this summer, the entry-level CL550 will get the company’s 4MATIC all-wheel drive system as standard equipment. The newest generation of the system adds a negligible 154lbs to the CL550’s already substantial 4,485lb curb weight and should help the big coupe make more efficient use of its 381 horsepower and 391 lb-ft of torque.
Other CL models, such as the CL63 AMG, CL600 and CL65 AMG continue with rear-wheel drive only. Thus far, Mercedes will only offer the CL550 4MATIC in the Canadian market, and it’s not known when or if the automaker will bring it to the U.S.
The same all-wheel drive set-up made its debut in the 2007 S-Class flagship sedan, and no longer requires unique front suspension parts and wider transmission tunnel. The system’s left front wheel drive axle travels through the engine oil pan, and only two gears power the front driveshaft versus the old system’s three.
The all-wheel drive system includes an electronics traction control system that, according to Mercedes, will keep the car moving even if only one wheel has traction. Mechanically, a multi-plate clutch in the center differential acts like a limited-slip differential, while a planetary gearset allows for slightly rear-biased (45/55 percent) torque distribution under normal driving conditions.
06/10, 9:18 AM
posted by:
xyunya
What so new about this 4 wheel drive? Subaru, Acura have it for years now.
06/10, 9:27 AM
posted by:
mr.meanpants
The S-class has done without it for years why now? Everyone is going AWD in a time when cars need to be shedding weight.
06/10, 9:29 AM
posted by:
mr.meanpants
And I personally weigh 154 lbs and do not consider myself negligible.
06/10, 9:29 AM
posted by:
mr.meanpants
I just reread the article and retract my first statement.
06/10, 9:59 AM
posted by:
BlackX
The CL class is fabulous and AWD makes it even better.
06/10, 10:54 AM
posted by:
Blakkarr
Cost not being such an issue, and AWD is always welcomed, how about working on cutting the weight some. There is not reason for a car this size and in this price range to weigh as much as a mid-sized SUV, in this day and age.
Cut the curb back to around 3800lbs and I’ll be impressed, or at least pleased.
06/10, 11:22 AM
posted by:
BlackX
Why dont you work for MB and tell them how to loose 800 pounds from their flagship? its not sports car. its luxury GT.
06/10, 12:22 PM
posted by:
brassmonkey
Oh, waaaah. OK, so what. I ain’t in the market anyway. Good luck, rich pricks.
06/10, 5:55 PM
posted by:
NoNameDenton1
Should be popular with rich people who live in snow areas.