2010 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class Review
Price
RM488,888
Installment
RM4,663/mth
2010 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class at a glance
The 2010 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class is an elegant, classy four-seater coupe that is refined on highways and agile on twisty roads. The luxurious cabin is a wonderful place to spend time, too. But the price tag seems over-optimistic.
2010 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class quick specs
| Body Style | Coupe |
| Class | Compact Luxury |
| Assembled | - |
| Engine Range | - |
| Fuel Options | - |
| Seating Capacity | 4 |
2010 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class ratings (overall rating : 4/5.0)
| Styling | |
| Handling | |
| Comfort | |
| Quality + Reliability | |
| Performance |
| Roominess | |
| Running Costs | |
| Value for Money | |
| Equipment | |
| Environment |
Styling
Coupes, without two doors relative to their sedan counterparts, naturally look more elegant. The 2010 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class is no different; it looks elegant and classy, drawing styling elements from the previous C-Class and E-Class. The absence of the B-pillar certainly gives the 2010 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class a sleekness which neither the previous C-Class or E-Class managed.
Handling
The 2010 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class is based on the previous C-Class's agile chassis. Mercedes-Benz gave the CLK-Class firmer suspensions, allowing for better body control and reduced body lean. Grip levels are still high, and importantly, the improved steering is sharper. The 2010 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class has optimised the ride-and-handling balance.
Comfort
Ride comfort and refinement are high on the 2010 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class's priorities. This is the car for long-distance cruising as it provides a smooth, quiet ride at higher speeds. The 2010 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class also rides pliantly over rougher surfaces. The multitude of seating and steering adjustments, excellent ergonomics and cosseting seats give the cabin a supreme sense of comfort.
Quality + Reliability
The cabin materials feel and look expensive, while the fit-and-finish are paid much attention. In addition to the brilliant interior construction, CLK-Class owners should have little worries as the engine has been proven in other Mercedes-Benz models. According to recent JD Power customer satisfaction surveys, the Mercedes-Benz brand has been faring well in terms of reliability.
Performance
The supercharged 1.8-litre engine has 184 bhp and 250 Nm, so the on-road performance is decently quick. To truly exploit the chassis potential, the 1.8-litre engine will have to be revved hard, at which point the engine soundtrack is more loud and coarse than music to the ears. The five-speed automatic gearbox shifts smoothly.
Roominess
With genuine room to accommodate four in comfort, the 2010 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class is a true four-seater coupe. The front driver and passenger enjoy plenty of head- and leg-room. The rear offers good legroom, although headroom is limited for taller passengers. Access to the rear will require some effort as is the case for many coupes. A large boot, by coupe standards, is available.
Running Costs
The CLK 200K returns 11.9 km/litre. Maintenance and repairs will be costly as all Mercedes-Benz servicing tends to be. Mercedes-Benz cars may be expensive to buy and maintain, but the CLK-Class's resale values are easily the best compared to premium branded coupe peers.
Value for Money
Mercedes-Benz cars have always been priced higher than peers. But in the case of the CLK 200K, the price it is asking for can get you the sweet BMW 335i Coupe. And compared to the BMW 320i Coupe, the price just seems exorbitant. As outstanding as the CLK 200K is, its price leaves little value to be had.
Equipment
The CLK 200K gets leather upholstery, electric front seats with memory function, cruise control, multi-function leather steering wheel, Bluetooth function, CD changer, alloy wheels, automatic climate control and bi-xenon headlamps. Safety equipment includes Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Brake Assist (BAS), two-stage front airbags, sidebags in the front and windowbags.
Environment
Carbon dioxide emissions of 207 grams/km and fuel economy of 11.9 km/litre are hardly going to win any “green” awards. Mercedes-Benz should seriously consider offering their “greener” diesel engines, which spew less carbon dioxide and consume less fuel.
Live Life Drive Verdict
Elegant, classy looks
Ride and handling
Genuine room for four
Too familiar styling
Loud, coarse engine when revved
More expensive than rivals
