2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK Class Coupe

The 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class is a handsome car with a modern yet classic Mercedes-Benz appearance. Editors at TheCarConnection.com like that all V-8 models get AMG styling details, including a different front air dam. The CLK-Class encompasses five models, including the CLK350 coupe and cabriolet; the CLK550 coupe and cabriolet; and the uber-high-performance CLK63 AMG Cabriolet. Joining these five for 2009 is the limited-edition CLK350 Grand Edition.

Only 1,000 versions of the Grand Edition coupes and cabriolets will be produced. Both models feature Sport body styling and 18-inch AMG wheels, and they come standard with a six-disc CD changer and heated front seats. The exterior of the Grand Edition coupe is Palladium Silver with a Tobacco Brown leather interior, beige stitching, and aluminum trim, while the cabriolet is finished in Diamond White and the same interior except for dark brown ash wood trim.

The CLK350s are powered by a 3.5-liter V-6 engine with 268 horsepower, and CLK550s by

5.5-liter V-8 engine producing 382 horsepower and 391 lb-ft of torque. The AMG models get a hand-assembled 6.2-liter high-performance V-8 producing an asphalt-smoking 475 horsepower that can propel its surrounding convertible body to 60 mph in approximately 4.6 seconds. All 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class cars use a seven-speed automatic transmission.

Acceleration is never an issue with the Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class. Of course, V-8 models are quite impressive when moving away from a stop. Editors from TheCarConnection.com have only one complaint (and it's a common issue with several Mercedes-Benz vehicles): The steering feel isn't the best. It tends to be slower than our enthusiastic drivers like, and there is a "dead" spot on center. Aside from this flaw, the 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class, regardless of which powertrain or body style you select, would be easy to live with.

Detailing is a Mercedes-Benz strong suit, and the leather mixed with chrome accents is pleasingly blended. Inside the 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class, there's plenty of room up front, and the rear seats are acceptable for modest cross-town trips. But if you really wanted room for four or five, you'd pick a sedan, right?

In these days of retractable hardtops, some buyers might see the CLK Cabriolet's soft top as a safety issue. Experts from TheCarConnection.com don't, but we appreciate the extra refinement these tops provide. Electronic stability control and a full range of airbags (including side curtains in coupes) help the 2009 CLK-Class win accolades for being prudent and thoughtful.

2009 will most likely be the last model year for this generation of CLK. Experts at TheCarConnection.com know that an all-new E-Class Coupe will arrive as a 2010 model, with a new convertible following.

The Bottom Line:

The 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class is awash in expensive luxury and complex engineering.