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By Christopher Hubbard
First Drives
11 June 2008 10:00
Previously the C-class Sports Coupe, now the Mercedes-Benz CLC, this is the junior coupe in the three-pointed star’s line-up. Some 1100 modifications underline the change to the bootbadge. But is the CLC really anything more than a pretty new face? If it is, in fact, even that…
Actually, that’s kind of a funny thing. Mercedes has given the CLC its new nametag partly because the C-class it’s based on is no longer on sale. And yet the facelift is apparently attempting to make it look like the new C-class. The transformation is not an especially successful one. Better in the metal – but not by much. Our advice? Try not to view it from behind. This is a scrunched-up abomination compared to the delicate curves and split glass of the original.
Still, claims of improved handling – including Mercedes’ new direct-steer system on Sport models – better quality interiors, and updated engines mean there may be life in the old dog yet. Trouble is, Mercedes failed to bring the most significantly improved engines to the launch. So while we can tell you the CLC 200 Kompressor has 20bhp more, and the CLC 200 CDI now offers 10.8 percent better economy, we don’t actually know how they drive…
Click 'Next' below to read more of our Mercedes CLC first drive
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Mercedes CLC 220 CDI (2008) CAR review
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enigma says
RE: Mercedes CLC 220 CDI CAR review
Picked the car up on 6th of august, sport version with comfort pack,heated seats and auto box. I have now covered 5k miles and have enjoyed every one. The car is taut and responsive, corners like a dream. The sports seats give a very comfortable ride and compared to my old c180k sports coupe I get out NOT feeling crippled. If I had any critiscism at all it would be that the gear box revs very high when you put the foot down for an overtake. My option has been to toggle through the gears if requiring a quick A class road over take. I have it for three years and its the first car I have had that I have looked fwd to having it for this amount of time. I usually change after 24mths. Will give my returns over 12months for economy etc in august.
08 January 2009 21:16
Well I had a three hour test on my own with the car and was able to drive it on a variety of roads, dual carriageway to twisty country roads. Derivative driven was the 220cdi Sport with an auto box. I found the car to be responsive when required and very agile, I found none of the ponderous steering that I have read journo's write about and the ride was smooth over the B + C class roads. The interior comfort and driving position was excellent. Rear visibility is not great after they removed the rear lower panel but the parktronic mounted in the roof above the rear seats is easily viewed from the mirror and makes parking a breeze. I await delivery of CLC 220cdi Sport end of July. Anyone want a 51,000mile C180K on a 53 plate?
29 June 2008 15:47
kerrecoe says
No mate, lazy article comments containing cheap (and ultimately subjective) jibes at the buying decisions of others is the best way to spot an idiot.
26 June 2008 17:42
nicebiscuit says
These cars are great. At least they provide an easy way for the rest of us to spot an idiot.
22 June 2008 21:47
kkirkou says
This is not a coupe. It's a facelifted 3-door hatchback version of the previous C-class. Period.
19 June 2008 00:47
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