2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class

Mercedes-Benz makes a few updates to its CLK-Class two-door coupes and cabriolets for 2008. The automaker now offers the high-performance CLK63 AMG, previously available only as a cabriolet, as a coupe for 2008. In addition, the base CLK350, available as both a coupe and a cabriolet, now comes with a new optional Appearance Package, which adds a sport-tuned suspension, 17-inch wheels, rubber-studded stainless-steel pedals, and a choice of Sport or Luxury interior. The CLK550, also available as either a coupe or cabriolet, rolls into 2008 unchanged.

All CLK-Class trims retain their broad stance and pillarless cabin design, which results in an airy, uninterrupted side profile with the windows open or closed. Standard exterior features include light-sensing headlights, halogen foglights, heated power mirrors, and rain-sensing wipers.

A 268-hp, 3.5-liter, double-overhead-cam V6 powers the CLK350. This V6 links to a seven-speed automatic transmission, making CLK-Class cars the only ones in their class with a seven-speed automatic, according to Mercedes. Standard features for the CLK350 include leather upholstery, Burl Walnut wood trim, and an electronic stability program. The CLK350 Cabriolet includes a triple-insulated soft top, which retracts in 17 seconds for open-air driving.

A throaty 5.5-liter V8 engine drives the CLK550 coupe and cabriolet. The V8 delivers 382 hp and propels the CLK550 from 0 to 60 in just over 5 seconds. The engine links to a seven-speed automatic transmission with Touch Shift, which enables drivers to manually shift gears by nudging the shift lever left or right.

Standard interior features for the CLK550 include hand-polished Black Ash wood trim, leather upholstery, 10-way power-adjustable front seats, and a six-speaker audio system. The CLK550 also features a number of unique components designed by AMG, Mercedes' in-house sport tuner, including a rear spoiler, dual polished chrome exhaust tips, and 18-inch AMG-designed five-twin-spoke wheels.

At the top of the lineup, the CLK63 AMG comes equipped with a 6.2-liter V8 engine producing 507 hp and 465 lb-ft of torque, which drives the CLK63 AMG from 0 to 60 in 4.3 seconds. The engine links to an AMG SpeedShift 7G-Tronic transmission, which includes steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters for manual shifting. Standard features include AMG racing-inspired sport seats, an AMG carbon-embedded instrument cluster, a high-performance braking system, and an AMG sports suspension.

Across the line, standard features include dual-zone automatic climate control, a heated windshield washer system, and the Keyless-Go system, which enables drivers to lock and unlock the vehicle and start and stop the engine without using a key. The rear-wheel-drive CLK-Class coupes and cabriolets were designed to provide a smooth, quiet ride with good acceleration, and most drivers and reviewers agree that the cars easily meet that goal.

By R. Feeman