The new CLK-Class (W209): Statements About The New CLK-Class

Statements about the new CLK-Class

"The new CLK-Class is a logical progression of our brand's long-standing coupé tradition which stretches back over 100 years. Mercedes Coupés are an expression of individual lifestyle, the ultimate in elegance and genuine sporting prowess -- attributes which ring true of the new CLK-Class in particular. Its dynamic side lines and fully- lowering side windows are fully in keeping with the classic Mercedes Coupé concept which, when combined with pioneering innovations, is unique in the world. Furthermore, high-quality equipment and appointments, further enhanced interior comfort and the new, powerful engines ensure classic Mercedes exclusivity and superlative driving enjoyment. The CLK-Class is an important milestone in our successful strategic product initiative and, like the A-Class and SLK Roadster, it is a major contributor to the brand's new, dynamic image. The new Coupé is proof that Mercedes-Benz is even more dynamic than ever."
Professor Jürgen Hubbert, Member of the Board of Management of DaimlerChrysler AG, responsibility for the Mercedes-Benz Passenger Car and smart Business Unit

"With over 230,000 vehicles produced since launch, the CLK is the most successful coupé in its class. Having carved out a 35-percent European market share in its segment, it has achieved a level of success beyond our greatest expectations. I am confident that the new CLK-Class will continue along this highly successful course. Particularly since we have bestowed it with all the attributes that make Mercedes-Benz Coupés so uniquely enticing: dynamically elegant looks and the capability to provide sheer driving pleasure. Or, put another way, individual sporting prowess in its most beautiful form. Further factors which will enable the CLK-Class to consolidate its premium position in this market segment include highly-sophisticated Mercedes technology such as DISTRONIC, KEYLESS GO and LINGUATRONIC. At launch, the new CLK-Class will boast an even more extensive standard equipment package than its predecessor – including automatic belt feeders and automatic climate control – thus providing added value for the customer."
Dr. Joachim Schmidt, Mercedes-Benz Passenger Car and smart Business Unit, Head of Sales and Marketing

"The new CLK-Class is a Coupé of strong and impeccable character, thanks to an all-new design and the ultimate in automotive technology. Highlights include the new four-cylinder engines, featuring the innovative TWINPULSE system which maximises driving pleasure and minimises fuel consumption. In conjunction with direct petrol injection, which Mercedes-Benz is rephasing into standard production after an absence of 48 years, the new-generation engines reduce fuel consumption by 1.5 litres per 100 kilometres, compared to the preceding models. On top of all this, and for the first time in this class, we are also offering the powerful 5.0-litre V8 engine, previously the reserve of top-of-the-range Mercedes models. This powerplant will, quite literally, propel the new CLK Coupé into the realms inhabited by high-performance sports cars."
Dr. Hans-Joachim Schöpf, Mercedes-Benz Passenger Car and smart Business Unit, Head of Development

"The CLK-Class is further evidence of the huge technical strides being made in automotive production all the time. At the DaimlerChrysler site in Bremen, we have set up a new, highly-sophisticated assembly hall especially for the new Coupé models. And we have rigorously adapted our work processes in line with the principles of the innovative Mercedes Production System. Coupled with our experience of assembly-line production and team-based work, this will enable us to implement a flexible system of production control governed by demand. Tangible results of this concept include even higher quality and even better efficiency. In the field of bodyshell manufacture, too, the new CLK highlights the major advances we have made. For instance, we have doubled the percentage of the bodyshell which is made from high-strength steel alloys that minimise weight and maximise strength and safety. The total sum of money invested in the Bremen plant for the new CLK-Class amounts to some € 300 million.
Helmut Petri, Mercedes-Benz Passenger Car and smart Business Unit, Head of Production