Mercedes-Benz CLK Cabrio

Although Mercedes has been the pioneer of folding hardtop technology, the CLK will retain a traditional canvas roof. The company had toyed with the idea of an SLK-style hard top, but it couldn't be made to work without compromising the interior space or boot capacity.

Auto Express Car Reviews

By ©Automedia

October 2002

Like the CLK coupe, the cabrio will be available with air-suspension and 4?Matic all-wheel drive as an option. The brake-by-wire system of the new SL will be standard for the new CLK-range, too. Even more important: together with the new E-class, the new CLK will be the first car that will receive Mercedes' new direct injection petrol engines. Entry-level engine will be a 1.8-litre four-cylinder Kompressor unit which, with 168 HP, will be more powerful than the current 2-litre drivetrain and about 10 per cent more fuel efficient. Even diesel engines will be available for the new CLK - AMG is currently working on a hot version of the 270 CDI which is planned to be used in the CLK.