The SL63 AMG is motivated by a 6.3-liter, all-AMG V-8 engine that shares no parts with the V-8 found in the engines of the regular SL models. This power plant is mated with an all-new, seven-speed transmission with multi-clutch technology (MCT), unique to the model. The transmission, which features four shift modes, significantly reduces shift times, according to Mercedes. From side-on, the car distinguishes itself with AMG-trimmed air outlets behind the front wheels.

Mercedes' self-proclaimed "four-door coupe" receives some minor cosmetic enhancements for 2009, including a new radiator grille with fewer louvers than the current model, new mirrors, and LED tail lights. The new CLS is available with three engine choices: the CLS280 gets a 3-liter V-6 making 231 horsepower; the CLS 350 CGI gets the same engine with direct injection giving it 292 horsepower; and the CLS 500 gets the tried and tested 5.5-liter V-8, good for 388 horsepower.

As an entirely new model line, the CLC becomes Mercedes' entry-level coupe, taking over from the CLK. The CLC sports a wedge-shaped profile with a cropped rear end and a high trunk deck lid. It will be available in Europe with a choice of six engines.

Mercedes' grand touring CL line gets a new member in the form of the permanent all-wheel-drive CL500 4Matic. The new model is equipped with the same 388 horsepower V-8 as that found in its rear-wheel drive counterpart, but the swoopy coupe now gets the same all-wheel-drive system found in the S-Class sedan. According to Mercedes, the 4Matic version of the CL will get exactly the same fuel economy as the two-wheel drive version.

The baby roadster of the lineup receives some significant exterior styling updates as well as a number of engine upgrades. On the front end, a new bumper and airdam arrangement give the car a more pointed look, while on the back end a new diffuser and trapezoidal tailpipes complete the makeover. The new SLK 350 inherits the V-6 from the SL-class, giving it a whopping 305 horsepower. The model is also available with naturally aspirated and supercharged four-cylinder engines.

Inside, the SLK gets a modified instrument cluster and a new three-spoke steering wheel, although its main COMAND interface appears to remain unchanged from that in the current model.

While the SL class retains the console-mounted COMAND interface with GPS navigation as standard, the system gets a number of upgrades including a 4GB hard drive and the Mercedes Music Register application that allows drivers to store up to 1,000 MP3 tracks. It also gets USB connectivity and Bluetooth hands-free calling as standard.