Ch-Ch-Changes: 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS

• Competes with: BMW 6 Series, Audi S5
• Looks like: Mercedes-Benz still makes something sexy
• Drivetrain: 382-hp, 5.5-liter V-8 or 507-hp, 6.2-liter V-8 with seven-speed automatic
• Hits dealerships: Summer 2008

One of the best-looking Mercedes-Benz sedans — even if they call it a four-door coupe — gets a slight face-lift and upgrades for 2009. Engine and trim levels remain the same as before, with a CLS550 and a CLS63 AMG.

What’s new? A revised two-bar grille, larger side-view mirrors — presumably to help with sightlines — a new wheel design, a new bumper and new taillights take care of the exterior. Inside, buyers get a new steering wheel, new gauges and Bluetooth.

The CLS550 features a 382-hp V-8, while the AMG comes with a 507-hp V-8, both with a seven-speed automatic transmission. In Europe, buyers can opt for a V-6 engine, but not those in the U.S. At prices of $67,950 and $93,550 respectively for the 2008 models, the car’s relatively light sales could have been boosted by a 350 offering. In 2007, Mercedes sold just 10,000 of the CLS, down 26.5% from 2006. That’s about a third of the number of the more expensive S-Class sedans that were sold, and a sixth as many as the less expensive E-Class. Mercedes officials say U.S. buyers want big engines in more premium vehicles, but a $55,000 CLS350 might do more to sell the CLS than a face-lift will. More photos below.