Lorinser CL-Class

The Lorinser CL-Class CL500 is a bespoke coupe based on the Mercedes-Benz CL-Class platform, tailored for India's luxury enthusiasts with a 5.5-liter twin-turbo V8 upgraded by Lorinser to over 400 bhp and 530 Nm torque, mated to a 7-speed automatic for seamless shifts. I value its 2+2 seating wrapped in premium Nappa leather, carbon-fiber accents, and a Burmester sound system perfect for Bollywood playlists on long hauls. Key aspects include adaptive air suspension for Indian roads, 20-inch forged wheels, aggressive body kit lowering stance by 30mm, and bi-xenon LEDs with Lorinser styling. Safety features like PRE-SAFE, 10 airbags, and stability control meet global standards, while dimensions (5.06m long, 1.89m wide) suit urban parking with 460-liter boot for luggage. Discontinued new since around 2014, used units shine in reliability if Mercedes-serviced, with strong resale in India. For buying, prioritize low-mileage examples with full Lorinser kit verification—it's the ultimate head-turner blending performance, luxury, and exclusivity.

The Lorinser CL-Class, a customized pinnacle of the Mercedes-Benz CL500, features a 5.5-liter V8 biturbo engine with over 600 hp, 7-speed automatic, rear-wheel drive, and air suspension for supreme ride quality on India's diverse roads. Its coupe design seats four lavishly with quilted leather, Burmester audio, and safety tech like ABC braking, spanning 5 meters for presence. Lorinser enhancements include carbon-fiber aero parts, quad exhausts, and 20-inch wheels boosting style and grip. Discontinued in India post-2013, it excels in long-distance cruising with 510 Nm torque, though heavy at 2.1 tons and wide stance demand skilled handling in tight cities. Ideal for affluent collectors valuing rarity over daily usability, it demands meticulous upkeep via Mercedes specialists to sustain its 300+ km/h top speed potential safely here.

I've long admired the Lorinser CL-Class for its blend of Mercedes-Benz opulence and Lorinser's aggressive tuning, making it a standout grand tourer in India's luxury scene. The CL500 variant, with its 5.5-liter V8 pumping out enhanced power around 400 bhp after Lorinser tweaks, delivers effortless highway cruising and a thunderous exhaust note that turns heads on Mumbai's coastal roads or Delhi's expressways. I appreciate the hand-stitched leather interiors, 20-inch Lorinser alloys, and lowered suspension that sharpen handling without sacrificing comfort for long drives to Goa or Jaipur. In India, where potholes challenge even the best, its air suspension adapts seamlessly, ensuring a plush ride. Maintenance demands premium service from Mercedes dealers, but the exclusivity justifies it—few cars match this presence. For buyers seeking status with substance, I recommend it if you prioritize thrill over practicality; it's not for daily commutes but excels as a weekend weapon, holding value well in the used market around Rs. 50 lakh to Rs. 1 crore. Ultimately, I give it my thumbs up for those who can afford the running costs and want a discontinued icon that still feels modern.

I find the Lorinser CL-Class a captivating blend of opulence and performance that once defined luxury grand touring in India, with its handcrafted aerodynamic body kit, 20-inch alloys, and lowered suspension transforming the Mercedes-Benz CL500 into a more aggressive predator on our highways. The 5.5-liter V8 biturbo engine, pushing around 600 horsepower in Lorinser spec, delivers explosive acceleration—0-100 km/h in under 4.5 seconds—paired with a smooth 7-speed automatic that makes long drives from Mumbai to Goa effortless and exhilarating. Inside, I appreciate the premium leather, wood trims, and advanced tech like adaptive cruise and night vision, offering unmatched comfort for four adults. However, its discontinuation years ago means sourcing one now involves the used market, where condition and service history are critical to avoid high repair bills from Mercedes parts. For buyers seeking a rare statement of prestige without Maybach prices, I recommend it if you prioritize style and power over practicality, but inspect thoroughly for rust in humid Indian climates and budget for premium fuel and maintenance to keep it running reliably.

Mercedes-Benz has introduced the CLE-Class, which replaces both the C-Class and E-Class coupes. This new model is designed to be more spacious and luxurious, offering a modern interior with a digital instrument cluster and a large touchscreen display. The CLE-Class is set to go on sale in the U.S. in early 2024.

The CLE-Class, particularly the CLE 450 Coupe, has been praised for its comfort and luxurious feel, despite not being the most sporty coupe in Mercedes lineup. It offers ample space for passengers and cargo, making it a great option for commuting and long highway drives. I think this balance of comfort and luxury is a strong selling point.

Mercedes-Benz continues to enhance its MBUX infotainment system across its models, including the CLE-Class. The system features a large touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, navigation, and voice control, making it highly intuitive and user-friendly.

The CLE-Class, including the CLE 450 Coupe, uses a 48-volt mild hybrid system to enhance fuel economy and power. This system helps reduce turbo lag and smooth out shifts but does not allow for all-electric driving. The CLE 450 4Matic has been tested to be comfortable on both surface streets and highways.

Mercedes-Benz has revamped its model lineup for 2024, with significant changes including the introduction of the new E-Class and the rationalization of coupe and convertible models into the CLE-Class. This move aims to streamline their offerings in a market favoring crossover SUVs.

In India, the Lorinser CL-Class CL500 was never officially sold new through Mercedes channels, as Lorinser is a German aftermarket tuner customizing Mercedes models, so no current ex-showroom price exists—new Mercedes CL-Class ended production years ago with last ex-showroom figures for the base CL500 around Rs. 1.20 to 1.66 crore before discontinuation. For used examples specific to this variant, I've seen well-maintained 2010-2014 models listed between Rs. 50 lakh to Rs. 1 crore in major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore, depending on mileage under 50,000 km, service history, and Lorinser authenticity verified via certificates. On-road prices for used cars add 10-15% via RTO registration, insurance (around Rs. 2-5 lakh annually for high-value policies), and potential import duties if grey-market sourced, pushing totals to Rs. 55 lakh to Rs. 1.15 crore. I advise budgeting extra for import taxes if buying a fresh Euro-spec conversion, plus green tax in states like Maharashtra. As a reviewer, this pricing makes it a smart buy versus new Mercedes at Rs. 1.1 crore plus for CLE equivalents—superior rarity and power for less, but factor high insurance premiums and parts sourced via specialists, aiding a savvy purchase decision.

In India, the Lorinser CL-Class, based on the Mercedes-Benz CL500, carried an ex-showroom price of approximately Rs. 1.20 to 1.66 crore during its availability, reflecting its bespoke tuning and import duties that inflated costs significantly. On-road prices in major cities like Delhi or Mumbai would add 15-20% more, pushing totals to Rs. 1.40-2.00 crore, factoring in 28% GST, road tax around 12-15%, insurance of Rs. 5-8 lakh annually, and registration fees, making it a hefty investment even then. Today, as a discontinued model since around 2012-2013, no new units exist, so expect used examples from 2008-2014 models trading at Rs. 40-80 lakh depending on mileage, condition, and service records from authorized dealers. I view this pricing as a smart entry into ultra-luxury for savvy buyers; the depreciation offers value compared to current flagships like the S-Class at over Rs. 1.8 crore ex-showroom, but factor in potential refurbishments costing Rs. 10-20 lakh to match new-car reliability. Negotiate hard on low-mileage gems with full Mercedes history to maximize resale and minimize ownership shocks in India's premium used segment.

I estimate the Lorinser CL-Class CL500 at 6-8 kmpl city and 10-12 kmpl highway in India with 91-octane fuel and AC on, worsened by its tuned V8 and urban traffic. Running costs hit Rs. 15-20 per km including Rs. 200+ per liter petrol; skip it if mileage drives your decision—opt for efficient Mercedes like C-Class diesel at 20 kmpl instead.

I estimate the Lorinser CL-Class at 6-8 kmpl city and 10-12 kmpl highway in India on 95-octane fuel, given its thirsty V8 and urban traffic. Running costs suit high-income buyers unconcerned by Rs. 2-3 per km, prioritizing thrill over efficiency—opt for it if fuel budgets exceed Rs. 50,000 monthly.