Spy Shots

It’s a blue sky day for Mercedes engineers, working on the development of the firm’s eagerly aniticipated replacement for the CLK.

This model, spied testing on the public road, is the first to reveal how the firm plans a special targa topped model, complete with a full length opening glass sunroof.

These are the clearest shots yet of the newcomer, which is expected to make its public debut at the Geneva Motor Show in March.

Tipped to be labelled the ‘CE’ the new Merc will combine the sophistication and comfort of an E-Class saloon with the sporty good-looks of a C-Class coupe.
Cosmetic changes are complimented by a mechanical makeover, and the addition of technology such as Mercedes’ body control system ‘adaptive damping’, plus adjustable steering and body control settings.

Rear-wheel drive remains, with engines coming from the C-Class, ranging from the 1.8-litre petrol found in the C180 to the 3.0-litre V6 diesel unit on the 320CDI. Oil burners are expected to dominate sales, and prices should be close to the CLK’s rivals – starting at around £26,000.