2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class Review

The Mercedes-Benz CLK Class is offered in three different models (CLK350, CLK550, and CLK63 AMG), and in two different body styles (coupe and convertible). The CLK350 comes with a 268-horsepower, 3.5L V6, while the CLK550 includes a 382-horsepower, 5.5L V8. The entire CLK line uses a seven-speed automatic transmission, and all CLKs have rear-wheel drive.

The CLK63 AMG convertible and CLK63 AMG Black Series coupe get a number of subtle visual cues and not-so-subtle high-performance modifications from Mercedes' in-house tuner, AMG, including hand-built V8 engines modified for high-performance track driving, a performance exhaust system, a sport-tuned suspension, stronger brakes, better-bolstered heated sport seats, and special aluminum trim. The CLK63 AMG convertible gets a 6.3L V8 making 475 horsepower, while the CLK63 AMG Black Series coupe gets a 500-horsepower version of that engine, plus even more high-performance equipment including carbon-fiber bodywork, carbon-fiber trim and stainless steel trim inside, and a number of additional convenience and safety features such as bi-xenon headlamps with active curve illumination.

The entire line of CLK models comes very well equipped, with ten-way power front seats, leather upholstery and trim, burl walnut trim, dual-zone climate control with sun and humidity sensors and a pollen filter, an infrared Smart Key entry system, and a six-speaker sound system standard on the base CLK350. Options include a sunroof, a DVD navigation system, heated seats, and Sirius satellite radio.

CLK convertibles include a weather-insulated, multi-layer power-folding cloth top and automatic rollover-sensing pop-up roll bars. The entire CLK line has a generous list of safety features including anti-lock brakes with brake assist and the ESP stability control system; coupes get side air bags and side-curtain air bags covering both rows, while convertibles have seat-integrated combination head/thorax bags. Rear side bags are available on coupes.
The Mercedes CLK Class lineup of coupes and convertibles carries over to 2008 unchanged, in anticipation of a completely redesigned model set to arrive for 2009. see less