Mercedes-Benz CLK Coupé (02-09) - Review

Review by Simon Harris on
Last Updated: 25 March 2009
The CLK goes down the 'looking good' rather than 'feeling sporty' coupé route. Its sleeker shape and big pillarless doors lend it a more sophisticated air than a Mercedes saloon. It's a competent driver and the more powerful variants can call upon considerable straight-line performance. But it feels more at home cruising to boutiques and beauty parlours or commanding respect in the office car park rather than chasing down twisty roads. Changes in 2005 introduced new six-cylinder engines and two new diesels, including the excellent 320 CDI model.
4 out of 5

Other Mercedes-Benz reviews

4 out of 5

Safety

As with all Mercedes-Benz cars there are no deadlocks, but that's a sign of how highly they rate safety. Six airbags come standard (front, side and head airbags for both front seat occupants) and an electronic stability programme is fitted to all models. Rear side airbags are optional but there's no Euro NCAP crash test rating.

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3.5 out of 5

Reliability

We haven't heard of any major mechanical issues with the CLK and it should prove as reliable as other modern Mercedes. All the engines have proved durable in other models.

Car check problem points

Body

No problems reported.

Engine/Gearbox

One recall in 2008 for a problem where the engine may lose power.

Other

A recall in 2008 where the engine emergency shut off may not work properly. An earlier one in 2004 was for an issue with the rear seat belts possibly not engaging properly.