Mercedes-Benz SA has just released its CLC – the successor to the C-Class-based Sports Coupé. But don’t be mistaken, the newcomer’s not based on Stuttgart’s latest (W204-series) compact executive.Instead, the CLC is based heavily on the old generation Sports Coupé, which is evident from the hatchback’s familiar roofline. The front and rear end of the car now feature the new aggressive C-Class design cues – the front styling is reminiscent to that of the W204 saloon and unique taillights house LEDs that accentuate the width and stance of the vehicle. Overall, the CLC looks more grown-up than the somewhat-brash Sports Coupé.
The interior incorporates several features that were introduced with the current C-Class range. It comes equipped with a sporty three-spoke steering wheel and aluminium flanked central instrument cluster, and is available in multiple leather trim colours ranging from black to red and beige. The black and red schemes, in combination with the aluminium inserts, contribute to a sportier ambience. The lighter beige, by contrast, is what most buyers will expect from the more conventional C-Class saloon.
In South Africa, the CLC is available in the form of the CLC200 Kompressor and the CLC350. The models place a greater emphasis on on-road dynamics and are offered as standard with Mercedes-Benz’s direct steering system.
The four-cylinder under the bonnet of the 200K has an output of 135 kW and 250 N.m and is available with either the six-speed manual or an optional five-speed automatic transmission. Its average fuel consumption is claimed to be 7,8-litres per 100 km.
The flagship CLC350 is powered by a 200 kW 3,5-litre V6 (delivering 350 N.m of torque) mated with a seven-speed 7G-TRONIC automatic transmission. With the standard sports package, the driver can use gearshift paddles on the steering wheel to select the gears manually and Mercedes-Benz claim the CLC350 will accelerate from 0-100 km/h in 6,3 seconds and on to a limited top speed of 250 km/h.
In terms of interior specification, Mercedes-Benz has developed a new generation of infotainment units for the CLC, Two units are available, offering a combination of colour display, twin tuner, speed-sensitive volume control and Bluetooth interface. An iPod, USB stick or other external audio devices can now also be connected to the infotainment system. A new universal media interface (optional extra) links these devices to the on-board electronics and the CLC’s control system, allowing the iPod tracks to be displayed in the instrument cluster and on the colour screen in the centre console. Tracks can then be selected conveniently using the buttons on the multifunction steering wheel.
The new Comand APS units come with a DVD or hard-disc navigation system. The Linguatronic voice-operated control system, which Mercedes-Benz-Benz has upgraded with a new whole-word recognition capability, is fitted as standard if the integrated six-disc DVD changer is specified. Linguatronic enables the driver to conveniently operate the telephone, audio and navigation system.
In terms of safety, Mercedes-Benz has equipped its CLC with adaptive front, side and window airbags, as well as the latest-generation ESP system, among others.
Prices for these models with start at R335 000 for the 200 Kompressor and R405 000 for the 350 both coming with the MobiloDrive 120 maintenance package as standard.