Benz Faqs

In a constant attempt to keep up with ever-tougher competitors, some carmakers seem to upgrade or redo models at a fast pace. So here we have the next Mercedes-Benz CLK, a model that already sells well. Still, this new CLK is almost entirely new, save the motor under the hood of the CLK320, the V-6 model.

The new $43,900 CLK320 is only about $700 more expensive than the 2002 model, but is longer, wider and larger inside, a bit less sporty, a bit more sexy and festooned with many upgrades bestowed upon it from far more expensive Benzes, like the S-Class and CL-Class cars.

The second-generation Mercedes-Benz CLK now includes a full line of convertibles. The CLK coupes and cabriolets offer comfortable, luxurious accommodations and sporty performance. They look stunning even when sitting still, and are a delight on the road. They sit at the head of their class for looks, performance and passenger space.

In many ways, the CLK line is in a class by itself, sleek lines carefully sculpted to make a statement different from sedan-derived coupes like the BMW 330Ci. Completely redesigned last year, the current CLK models replace the first-generation (pre-2003) CLKs. The CLKs are all about style, and from Mercedes’ point of view, their direct competitors aren’t even on the road yet.

The 2006 CLK-Class of compact coupes and convertibles receives both cosmetic and functional upgrades for 2006. Most significant among them is the addition of a larger and more powerful base six-cylinder engine. Although it’s a stylish and luxurious car that is enjoyable to drive, the CLK has much worse than average reliability, according to Consumer Reports. A revised grille, front apron and taillights comprise the minor exterior tweaks, along with new five-spoke aluminum wheels.

The base model is renamed from CLK 320 to CLK 350 by virtue of its new 268-hp, 3.5-liter V6 engine. This powerplant drives the rear wheels via a seven-speed automatic transmission with Adaptive Shift Control that automatically alters gear-shift patterns according to the way the car is being driven. A manual transmission remains unavailable on CLK models, which speaks to Mercedes skewing the car more toward luxury than sport.

The high-performance CLK55 AMG coupe is discontinued for 2006, leaving only the convertible model. It’s powered by a 362-hp, 5.5-liter V8 engine mated to a modified five-speed automatic with Adaptive Shift Control and Speedshift manual shift capability.

Aswith Mercedes’ other AMG models, the CLK55 AMG has a host of suspension, braking, steering and other upgrades to increase performance and handling. Styling tweaks include a rear spoiler, aluminum trim, special wheels and different bumpers with larger and more air intakes.

A 514-hp, 6.3-liter V8 is being introduced across Mercedes’ lineup and will power a new CLK model called the CLK63 AMG. It will go on sale in the summer of 2006 as a 2007 model. The super coupe will also feature a new seven-speed Speedshift automatic transmission. The CLK 500 continues with its 302-hp, 5.0-liter V8 and seven-speed automatic. For 2006, this model gets a sportier looking interior and a specially tuned AMG exhaust system.

A firmer and lowered sport-tuned suspension can be added to the CLK 350 and CLK 500 for $210.  Standard safety and chassis-control systems are plentiful in the CLK, with active head restraints intended to reduce whiplash injuries new for 2006.

Other safety features include four-wheel disc power antilock brakes with Brake Assist, Electronic Stability Control and Automatic Slip Control, as well as standard front, front-side and head-curtain airbags (the latter for front and rear occupants). Rear side airbags are optional.

The CLK is quite luxurious, with a smooth ride, velvety controls and a long list of standard amenities. Optional features include a navigation system, adaptive cruise control and high-intensity Xenon headlamps with Active Curve Illumination.

Convertible versions (which include the CLK 350 Cabriolet, CLK 500 Cabriolet and CLK55 AMG Cabriolet) feature a multilayer, fully automatic soft top with a glass rear window that when closed makes the interior nearly as quiet as the coupe. The retracted top takes up trunk space, which is plentiful for a convertible, and has a partition that lifts out of the way to create more space when the top is up.

The 2006 CLK-Class of compact coupes and convertibles receives both cosmetic and functional upgrades for 2006. Most significant among them is the addition of a larger and more powerful base six-cylinder engine. Although it’s a stylish and luxurious car that is enjoyable to drive, the CLK has much worse than average reliability, according to Consumer Reports. A revised grille, front apron and taillights comprise the minor exterior tweaks, along with new five-spoke aluminum wheels.