Mercedes-Benz is looking forward to selling the 2009 CLK. Why? Because it is one of the few vehicles that does not take much money to build, which in turn brings in more profit for them. It shares some of the same characteristics as the normal C-class sedan, but it will be selling for $10,000 more. Hence, the nice profit.
That math finally has caught on with the competition. For example, the upcoming Audi A5 coupe/convertible is based on the A4, the two-door BMW 3-series cars will be priced more like a theoretical 4-series, and the second-generation Lexus SC will be GS-based but positioned between the GS and the LS. There is no doubt that the increased competition will cut into the CLK’s market share pie.