2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK Coupe
Based on analysis of 14 CLK-Coupe reviews and test drives.
Mercedes-Benz CLK Coupe - What the Auto Press Says
The 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK Coupe ranks 12 out of 16 Upscale Midsize Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 14 published reviews and test drives of the Mercedes-Benz CLK Coupe, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
Although the CLK Coupe is beautifully designed and offers a roomy and refined interior cabin, it can't match the performance and handling dynamics of others in its class. Compared to its competitors, it ranks near the bottom.
Auto writers describe the 2008 Mercedes Benz CLK Coupe as a quality luxury car with competent performance and excellent style. "If you're looking for something slightly less edgy than the 3 Series, a coupe with a bit more room and refinement, and you don't care to row your own gears, Mercedes' new CLK is the CTS coupe that Cadillac refuses to build and the C70 that Volvo will soon stop building," writes Motor Trend. "After all, who knows sport coupes better than the Germans?" Still, the CLK Coupe resides in a highly competitive class and can't match the performance dynamics of its major rivals.
Available in 350 and 550 trims, the CLK is a two-door version of the Mercedes C Class sedan and is offered as a convertible or the performance-oriented CLK63 AMG.
- "This is not simply the coupe version of the CLK63 convertible that hit the market last year. Instead, it is the result of an extensive engineering project involving major structural and suspension modifications. And the result is mind-blowing." -- Automobile Magazine
- "Mercedes-Benz's current CLK coupes and convertibles are fine cars, but apart from the AMG-badged variants, aggressive or intimidating they are not." -- Car and Driver
- "As with most Mercedes-Benz models, the CLK500 is pricey. But it is a strong player in the luxury coupe market that will attract envious glances as you drive down the highway." -- The Auto Channel
CLK-Coupe Performance - 8.1 (Very Good)
Test drivers find that the CLK Coupe handles well. "In V6 or V8 form, the Mercedes coupe isn't for slicing through twisties in the manner of the BMW 3 Series coupe, although there's nothing wrong with the way the CLK gets around corners -- it's quick and nearly neutral," writes Motor Trend. A full Performance Review is coming soon. continue
CLK-Coupe Exterior - 9.2 (Excellent)
Reviewers love the CLK Coupe's classy eye-catching exterior, which is designed without a B pillar, meaning that with all windows open "there is no post at the center to obstruct vision and fresh air," explains The Auto Channel. "This gives the CLK a clean look that isn't available in many cars." The CLK Coupe's exterior ranks near the top of its class. Check out the CLK Photo Gallery to see the car's profile minus the B-pillar, and check back for a full CLK Exterior Review, coming soon. continue
CLK-Coupe Interior - 8.0 (Very Good)
Critics appreciate the CLK Coupe for its refined interior appointments and decent back seat. "After years of mixing value into its equation, Mercedes has sifted proper levels of content, style, and quality back into its interiors," writes Motor Trend. Check out the CLK Photo Gallery to see the high-quality interior, or check out the full CLK Interior Review that's coming soon. continue
CLK-Coupe Safety - NA
The 2008 CLK Coupe has yet to be crash tested by the federal government or insurance industry, but comes equipped with a wide array of safety features -- including an occupant classification system and side-impact window curtain air bags. A full CLK Safety Review is coming soon. continue
CLK-Coupe Reliability - 7.0 (Good)
The 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK Coupe reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). Mercedes guarantees a four-year or 50,000-mile basic warranty for all new vehicles. A full CLK Reliability Review is coming soon. continue
