The 2001 Mercedes-Benz CLK320 two-door convertible featured a powered, three-layer soft top with a glass rear window. The soft top mimicked the hardtop's roofline when in place, and stowed out-of-the-way when dropped down. The CLK320 convertible had a reinforced chassis and body to prevent flexing over rough roads.
The CLK320 two-door convertible was powered by a 3.2-liter, overhead-cam V6 engine that produced 215 horsepower. The engine was linked to a five-speed automatic transmission equipped with the Touch Shift feature, which enabled the driver to upshift and downshift by nudging the shift lever left or right.
Standard equipment for the 2001 CLK320 convertible included Mercedes' TeleAid emergency communication and assistance program, and an Electronic Stability Programming (ESP) anti-skid system, as well as anti-lock brakes and Brake Assist, which applied full braking in emergency situations.
Other standard features for the 2001 CLK320 convertible included leather seats, wood interior trim, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, multi-zone climate control, cruise control, dual power-adjustable front seats, power windows, power heated mirrors, and a Bose premium audio system, as well as a full complement of airbags.
A new option for 2001 was Mercedes' COMAND (Cockpit Management and Data) system, which integrated navigation, audio, and telephone functions. All functions were operable through a console-mounted LCD display or via buttons on the multi-function steering wheel.
Overall, drivers were impressed with the CLK320 convertible. They considered it a fun and sporty car to drive. Drivers also liked the stability and anti-skid systems, which provided improved traction in inclement weather conditions. Most drivers reported having very few mechanical problems with the car. However, some noted that the back seat could be cramped, and truck space was limited due to storage for the soft top.
