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- Attractive styling
- Strong performance
- Sharp handling
- Refinement and smoothness
- High price
- Complex COMAND multifunction control
- Stale design
Elegant styling, solid performance and understated luxury are hallmarks of the Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class coupes, reviews say. Buyers of premium coupes priced in the same range as the Mercedes CLK350 (*est. $46,450) and the CLK550 (*est. $55,150) are often seeking the newest styling and engineering. For that reason, the 2008 CLK is not high on potential customers' shopping lists because it is little changed from the last major upgrade, which was done in 2003. The CLK engine lineup was revised in 2007 to a 268-horsepower V-6 in the CLK350 and a 382-horsepower V-8 in the CLK550. Regardless, auto writers say the lower-priced, less luxury-oriented BMW 3 Series coupes (*est. $36,425 to $43,825) have better driving dynamics. Reviews also suggest the new Audi A5 (*est. $39,900 to $41,200) as an alternative, though its prestige factor is a notch lower. For those willing to pay the premium for a Mercedes star on the grille, critics say the attractive CLK coupes are well engineered, comfortable, competent and offer a very satisfying drive.
Because the Mercedes CLK class is due for a replacement that is expected in 2009, there are not an abundance of road test reviews available of the base CLK350 and CLK550 models. Edmunds.com provides an informative, comprehensive review that offers a summary of the regular production CLK models. TheCarConnection.com recaps the CLK's strengths and weaknesses and suggests possible alternatives. In addition, Kelley Blue Book and Cars.com have solid, informative reviews.
Our Sources
1. Edmunds.com
Edmunds.com says the CLK350 "offers confident, stable handling, though serious enthusiasts are apt to prefer the sharper reflexes of the less expensive BMW 3 Series coupe." The V-8-powered CLK550 is said to provide "a more enticing combination of performance and sophistication."
Review: 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class Review, Editors of Edmunds.com
TheCarConnection.com calls the CLK "a handsome car with a modern yet classic Mercedes-Benz appearance." Acceleration is deemed good, but writer Rex Roy takes issue with the steering, about which he comments, "It tends to be slower than our enthusiast drivers like."
Review: 2008 Mercedes Benz CLK Class Bottom Line, Rex Roy
Kelley Blue Book editors say the Mercedes CLK coupe "stands out from the few others in this segment by touting a pillarless hardtop design and a stunning profile." Negatives noted include its high price, tight rear legroom and lack of manual transmission.
Review: 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class Review, Editors of Kelley Blue Book
This review from NewCarTestDrive.com says the CLK's "rigid structure contributes to its smooth, quiet operation, lack of vibration, and balance of ride quality and handling capability." This review is short on criticism.
Review: 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class, Tom Lankard
5. Cars.com
The Mercedes-Benz CLK's attributes are noted in this review, including its handling, ride comfort and "solid, tight construction." The CLK's tight rear seat, small tachometer and optional navigation system are criticized.
Review: 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class, Editors of Cars.com, Jul. 24, 2007
Writer Jim Gorzelany appreciates the CLK's "solid performance and acceleration, especially with the V-8 engine." Most of his critical comments are directed against coupes in general rather than specific drawbacks of the CLK.
Review: Classy Cruiser, Jim Gorzelany, Mar. 12, 2008
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