2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class New Car Buyer's Guide

What's New for the 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS55 AMG?
Mercedes-Benz adds a different sort of high-performance crossover to its lineup for 2006, the CLS55 AMG. Combining the roominess of a four-door sedan with the sleek design of a coupe, the CLS55 AMG is based on the E-Class platform. Power comes from a supercharged, 469-horsepower, 5.5-liter V8, and power is routed to massive 19-inch wheels through an AMG Speedshift five-speed transmission, replete with F1-style shift paddles. Safety gear includes adaptive two-stage front airbags, side-impact airbags for the front occupants, side-curtain airbags, and a new sensor system for the seatbelts and airbags that works to detect accident severity more quickly than usual. Inside, the 2006 Mercedes CLS55 AMG features a sport steering wheel and special sport seats upholstered in exclusive leather. Embossed with the AMG logo and heated for chilly days, the seats have substantial side bolsters to help hold occupants in place during high speed cornering. AMG instruments feature white dials with red needles, the doorsills are trimmed in chrome with the AMG logo, and the pedals are polished stainless steel with rubber studs.

Advantages of the 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS55 AMG:

• A rolling showcase of Mercedes-Benz technology
• Incredible power
• Gorgeous styling
• Sensuous interior

Objections to the 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS55 AMG:

• Confusing control operation
• Frustrating COMAND infotainment system
• Fussy Sensotronic brake-by-wire system

Editor's Advice:
What to do? The sensible, left side of your brain knows that you need a four-door sedan, yet the athletic; right side of your cranium wants a sleek, two-door coupe that can carve canyons like a Ginsu knife through Jell-O. Mercedes-Benz feels your pain. Blending the functionality of a sedan with the visual impact and power of a sport coupe, the new 2006 CLS55 AMG is the best of both worlds. Sure, it looks like a sexy coupe, but inside the CLS coddles the senses. Saddled with the incredible power afforded by the 5.5-liter V8, this is one 'Benz that will fulfill the kid in you, while keeping the practical side of life in check.