CLK gets big-bore update

Mercedes-Benz has announced updates for its popular CLK-Class coupe and cabriolet models. According to Benz, the updated coupes and cabriolets feature "design enhancements as well as numerous technical innovations and improved standard specifications."

While trim and equipment changes are included in the update, the key change is in the engineroom of the V6 petrol models. Inline with the E, SLK and M Class ranges, the CLK now gets the impressive 200kW 3.5lt V6 coupled with Benz's trademark 7GTRONIC seven-speed automatic transmission. The resulting CLK350 replaces CLK320.

Further down the capacity scale, the new CLK280 replaces the CLK240. The 280's 170kW V6 engine is 36 per cent more powerful than its predecessor, while the torque has been boosted by 25 per cent. At 7.4sec 0-100km/h. the vehicle is 1.8sec faster than the outgoing CLK240.

Sport packages have also been introduced for both the coupe or cabriolet models. These packages include 18-inch multi-spoke light alloy wheels, wide 225/40 R 18 tyres (front) and 255/35 R 18 tyres (rear), drilled discs, 15mm lower sports suspension and big-bore exhausts. For the interior, the sports package offers multi-contour front seats as well as gearshift buttons on the steering wheel, sports pedals in brushed stainless steel and velour mats with silver edging.

Depending on the model variant, the sports package costs between $2500 and $4900.

Mercedes says safety has been enhanced across the CLK range with the adoption of NECK-PRO active headrest. Debuted recently in the M-Class, the innovation will feature on the new S-Class and filter through all Benz models over the next year or so.

In addition to NECK-PRO, standard equipment levels for all new CLK models now includes tyre pressure loss warning system. Parameter steering and 17-inch light alloy wheels have been added to the standard equipment list for the new CLK 280 and CLK 350. The mechanically-unchanged CLK 500 will now include a sunroof as standard equipment while the CLK 55 AMG gets an anti-theft alarm system and Harmon Kardon LOGIC7 sound system.

Price increases for the 2006 model-year CLK-Class have been limited to the new V6 engines models which rise by $1000. Recommended retail prices for the 2006 model-year CLK 200 KOMPRESSOR, CLK 500 and CLK 55 AMG remain unchanged.

CLK Coupe
CLK 200K  Elegance      $83,600 
CLK 280  Elegance      $93,600 
CLK 350  Elegance      $118,600 
CLK 500  Elegance      $145,200 
CLK 55 AMG      $194,900 

CLK Cabriolet
CLK 200K  Elegance      $97,600 
CLK 280  Elegance      $107,600 
CLK 350  Elegance      $132,600 
CLK 500  Elegance      $159,200 
CLK 55 AMG      $208,900 

Since Australian introduction of the second generation coupe in June 2002, approximately 5000 buyers have taken delivery of a Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class.

"The CLK-Class has been a very popular choice for luxury coupe and cabriolet buyers in Australia and the introduction of the two new powerful engines and model update will improve its desirability," said Horst von Sanden, managing director, Mercedes Car Group Australia.