Preview: 2009 Mercedes Benz CLK
Wednesday 28 March 2007


Mercedes Benz has lost ground in the premium coupe segment against its main rival BMW and its more recent E92 3-series coupe, so it comes as little surprise that engineers are rushing to sign-off on the final design for the all-new 2009 CLK. Just last month, a near production ready CLK test mule was spotted undergoing cold-weather testing in Sweden and this latest rendering gives us a clue as to what the final car will look like.
Designers have followed the style set by the larger S-Class sedan with the new CLK picking up a high waistline wedged profile and a chiseled front end with angular headlights. The new lights are a departure to the current model’s conjoined circular units, featuring a squared look that’s rumored to star on the next-generation E-Class sedan as well.
Powertrains will be similar to the C-Class sedan including the new 272hp 3.5L V6 engine as well as Mercedes’ 5.5L V8 for the CLK500 flagship. An even more powerful AMG version is guaranteed; sporting the 503hp hand built 6.2L V8 engine. The CLK will be offered with optional 4Matic AWD and could possibly come with a new mild-hybrid option.
To capture ground lost to its rivals, Mercedes will beef up the CLK range with the latest technology shared with the more expensive S-Class. The new coupe is likely to pick up Mercedes’ Presafe brake assist, night vision, the latest COMAND system and possibly even an active suspension system. The CLK is expected to be revealed at next year’s Geneva Motor Show, with the first sales likely to start towards the end of 2008.

 

Pics look good, but I would stay away from MB until they realize their cars also have to run, not just look good.

 

I think it looks good, but I won't make a final judgement until I see it in person. Mercedes is really designing nice cars these days.

 

eh, I like the cl better

 

???
My Wife's CLK 500 has been a dream...and has 64,000 miles on it.

 

I love it, Like how the Leds are around the edges of the Front bumper and it looks very sporty.

 

I love the CLK's but the prices are not even close to the BMW 3 series coupes. I understand a premium, but when they are a good $15K more than their BMW counterparts then I won't consider one.

 

Umm.... in just the past 2 year's my family (meaning my mom and dad since I'm poor) has owned about 8 or 9 MB's and they all ran fine? Well I guess we didn't put any major mileage on them considering my dad goes through cars like a baby through diapers but, our CLS 55 has been fine for the past 32,000 miles.

 

 

Ugly. The lights look like they came from a Lexus GS. The lovely irony of how MB is now copycat.

 

Hmmm... I will have to see the real deal.

 

Dude... Your car running isn't what impresses the ladies... So who cares...

Example:

Aye biatch... Go get some 40s from the frig in the garage... And check out my iced out Benz... That **** is sittin' on 22"s!! 2, 2, 2, 22"s!!!

 

Geesh, I should have put my flame suit on. Their reliability ratings have been in the crapper ever since the 03 E. Many buybacks due to failures.

At least they make solid frames for their cars unlike that other German brand.