Review
Being a connoisseur, I decided to try my CLK medium – the 218bhp CLK320 which is likely to be the biggest seller in the range, although the C270 CDI diesel may well challenge this for business drivers wanting to lower their benefit-in-kind tax liability.
At present, the 320 is right in the middle of the range, above the 170bhp CLK240 and below the 306bhp CLK500 and 367bhp CLK55 AMG.
Later this year the CLK200 Kompressor joins the range, utilising the Twinpulse system to lower emissions and raise fuel economy without affecting performance. But as an everyday driving companion, 218bhp is more than enough for most.
At £34,590 on-the-road for either the Avantgarde or Elegance specification, the CLK320 is priced at the top end of this market segment. Its chief rival, BMW's 330 Ci tops out at £32,870 on-the-road for the Sport model.
So, it's a pricey car, but it is also a stunningly good-looking vehicle, mixing the familiar Mercedes-Benz family face of four headlights flanking the three-pointed star on the grill with sleek lines extending back to rear light clusters which ape those found on the E-class and S-class. It is also bigger than the model it replaces, which means more room inside and, in particular, in the rear so two adults can sit in the back in a fair degree of comfort.
On the road, the 3.2-litre engine feels lively and responsive and the standard five-speed automatic gearbox blends shifts imperceptibly. With 218bhp the CLK320 is quick enough and actually feels faster than its stated 0-62mph figure of 8.3 seconds.
With a stiffer body, the ride and handling are now more sporty than before, although this car prefers cruising to back-road hustling.
Verdict
It may be expensive, but you can't fail to be seduced by the CLK's stunning looks and impeccable build quality. With more space and better equipment levels than before, the CLK320 should be the default choice for any driver wanting a premium badge coupe.
Mercedes-Benz CLK 320 Avantgarde
Price (OTR): £34,590
Max power (bhp/rpm): 218/5,700
Max torque (lb-ft/rpm): 229lb-ft/3,000
Max speed (mph): 146
0-62mph (secs): 8.3
Average fuel economy (mpg): 25.9
CO2 emissions (g/km): 262
CAP residual value (3yrs/60,000miles): £17,275/50%
