Mercedes-Benz CLK Coupe 2002 Review

Mercedes-Benz is confident it can almost double existing sales of its CLK coupe to 1000 a year when the new range of power-packed models go on sale later this month (June, 2002). The CLK has been a sales winner for the three pointed star since its release in 1997, with more than 2300 sold Down Under in the last four years.

The latest CLK comes with a choice of four engines, three of which are new to the range. The volume-selling CLK320 retains the 3.2-litre V6 and is priced at $114,900 at launch, while the CLK500, which replaces the CLK430, gets the new 5.0-litre V8 from the S-Class. It launches with a price tag of $139,900.

An entry level CLK240 ($89,900), powered by a 125kW 2.6-litre V6, is due later this year and will replace the CLK 230 Kompressor in the lineup. Also coming late-2002 is a red-hot 270kW CLK55 AMG, which will be offered with a Formula 1-style gearshift on the steering wheel. It will cost $189,900.

Mercedes-Benz has added a host of new features across the range, some borrowed from the flagship S-Class and new E-Class, due late 2002. These include power operated rear windows, 'Thermatic' automatic climate control, rain sensing wipers, headlamp assist, and automatic seatbelt feeders. New options include Distronic radar cruise control, Keyless-Go, and boot lid remote closing.

The CLK 320 comes standard with Mercedes' COMAND voice activated communication system, metallic paint, and electronic memory seats. The CLK500 adds Thermotronic climate control, 17in wheels and speed-sensitive steering, while the CLK55 AMG gets an electric sunroof and Bi-xenon headlamps.

A lot of attention has been paid to the CLK's styling, bringing it into line with the modern Mercedes-Benz look. The eye-catching, SL-inspired front end has a three-pointed star front grille and peanut-shaped headlamps. The car is bigger than its predecessor - 71mm longer, 42mm higher and 18mm wider. Wheelbase has been increased 25mm, and there's an extra 15 litres of space in an already well-endowed boot.

Another styling adjustment is the removal of the upper part of the B-pillar. Mercedes-Benz says this has not compromised safety, with body rigidity up 40 percent and crash safety levels equivalent to the S-Class sedan. Additional safety measures include front airbags that deploy in two stages, window and side airbags, anti-lock brakes, Acceleration Skid Control, and Brake Assist.

Inside there's more room with a smart new dash, bigger seats and standard leather trim. Front seat passengers are carried in comfort with plenty of head and legroom. However, pushing the seats right back, which is necessary for taller folks, leaves little legroom for the backseat passengers.

On the road the benefits of the improved aerodynamics and body rigidity are noticeable with little noise intruding into the luxurious cabin. The 5.0-litre V8 is docile at idle, responding enthusiastically on the throttle with blistering performance at higher revs, all aided by a silky smooth five-speed Touchshift auto.

With 460Newton-metres of torque available as early as 2750rpm, the CLK500 accelerates briskly from standstill, completing the 100km/h dash in around six seconds. Although in a different league, the 160kW CLK320 is no slouch either, offering swift acceleration off-the-line and plenty of mid-range torque to keep things progressing nicely.

The CLK's impressive straight-line performance is backed up by superb handling. With the C-Class's rack and pinion power steering and three-link MacPherson strut front suspension, the CLK handles, steers, and sticks to the road like a modern sports coupe should. The CLK500's speed-sensitive steering offers even more feel on the pace.

The only criticism is the harsh ride on less than smooth roads, accentuated by the low-profile tyres. They're okay for the highway, but hit a bump or two and the tyres bellow like a taut drum, disturbing the cabin's peaceful ambience.

This is a small gripe for a sports coupe that has few vices. Mercedes-Benz already has 400 names on the order list, add yours now and you'll wait up to 12 months.