2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK Coupe spied

As these latest spy shots reveal, Mercedes-Benz is hard at work on its next generation CLK.
Both the CLK saloon and convertible variants will be based on the new C-class platform but with a few added refinements to meet the expectations of the somewhat more ambitious coupé-drivers.

These new shots reveal the shape of the headlights for the first time, somewhat resembling the new E-class rather than the C-class on which it is based.

The powertrain on the other hand will be lifted from the C-class and will include a V8 unit for the CLK500.

Our sources inform us the new CLK saloon is due to hit dealers across Europe in summer 2009 with the convertible to follow shortly after.

© Source: caradvice
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2008 Kicherer Mercedes-Benz CLK 63 AMG

(from Kicherer Press Release) The prevailing notion that sports cars are just a pleasure for two was now contradicted by Kicherer. The renowned Mercedes embellishing specialists from Stockach have enriched the CLK 63 AMG, which is actually a two-seater, with a sporty back seat. When you take the north loop in less than 8 minutes with this bolide, all those seats will defnitely provide more fun – and adrenaline – than any rollercoaster.

The radiator grill, already quite impressive on the standard version, is replaced by an even sportier variant made of carbon and featuring carbon fibre struts. The beautiful forged three-part wheel, Kicherer RS-1, also fulfls a double function as it is a visual and – thanks to weight reduction – also a sportive gain.

The chassis – specially developed for Kicherer by DTM specialist H&R – also improves the racer’s cornering dynamics by several degrees. Since the Kicherer engineers have taken care of the engine, too, they have further underlined their reinterpretation by carbon mirror shells. With its 540 hp, the Kicherer CLK racer gained about 33 hp. Even the torque has been improved by another 20 Nm.

Thus equipped, the Kicherer CLK only needs 4.1 seconds from 0 to 100 km/h and runs faster than 300 km/h – thanks to a derestricted V/max. In order to delight any fellow passenger’s vision, Kicherer has equipped the car with additional carbon intarsia.

© Source: seriouswheels
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2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class Review

What's New for 2008
The racetrack-inspired CLK63 AMG Black Series coupe joins the lineup. It boasts a 500-horsepower 6.2-liter V8 along with a track-ready suspension, upgraded composite brakes, no backseat and seriously supportive front seats. Only 350 are slated for the U.S. market. On the other end of the spectrum, the volume seller CLK350 gains a few new standard features, namely a sport suspension and twin six-spoke 18-inch wheels.

Introduction
Sitting midway between the compact C-Class sedans and the über-expensive CL-Class coupes and SL-Class roadsters, the 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class offers the best of both worlds. Specifically, the CLK boasts sleek two-door styling, something not available in the C-Class, along with luxury and performance that virtually equals that of the pricier cars.

The CLK is available as a coupe or convertible. Both models lack a B-pillar (the traditional side pillar behind the front doors), and this gives the car a very graceful look. The drop-top, drop-dead gorgeous version of the CLK is thesnew only oercedes convertible that can seat four people, though unlike its siblings and a few of its rivals, it forgoes a retractable metal roof in favor of a traditional well-insulated cloth top. No matter which model you look at, power is plentiful. It ranges from 268 horsepower in the CLK350 on up to 500 hp in the mighty, new-for-2008 CLK63 AMG Black Series coupe (which actually is available in colors other than black). Neatly splitting the difference between these two is the 382-hp CLK550.

Overall, we're quite fond of the CLK, and those who value luxury and performance equally should find the 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class more than sweet enough for their cravings. This segment contains many tempting (and potentially less expensive) choices, however. The ultra-responsive and communicative BMW 335i still reigns supreme as the driving enthusiast's choice, while Infiniti's G37 offers potent performance along with a considerably lower price tag. Making your decision process even tougher this year is the new Audi A5 with its sensuous styling and standard all-wheel drive. If you're looking at the V8-powered CLKs (the 550 and AMG versions), you might also consider the BMW M3 and Audi's S4/RS4 and S5. If it's the limited-edition Black Series coupe you're eyeing, bear in mind there are many, many fine cars you might consider at or below its lofty $135,000 price point, not least of which is the Porsche 911 GT3.

© Source: edmunds
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