Mercedes-Benz ’ mid-size coupe offerings have been a little confusing as of late. The German automaker first decided to replace its C-Class-based CLK with the all-new E-Class-based E-Class Coupe, but Mercedes officials recently revealed the E-Class Coupe is only about 60 percent based on the E-Class’ architecture. As if the line between the previous CLK and current E-Class Coupe wasn’t blurred enough, new reports are now surfacing that the CLK will not necessarily be discontinued.
According to Top Speed, Mercedes-Benz has plans to revive the CLK nameplate in 2011. However, the next-generation CLK will likely move down-scale from where the last CLK was positioned. Whereas the CLK was traditionally marketed as an E-Class coupe — despite its C-Class underpinnings — the 2011 model will wholeheartedly embrace its C-Class roots.
The next-generation CLK-Class will reportedly take on the styling of the C-Class Sedan, essentially creating a true C-Class coupe. The new model will give Mercedes-Benz a legitimate entry-level sedan, and could also give some Audi A5 and BMW 3-Series Coupe buyers reason to take a second look at the CLK.
However, despite the model’s move downscale, the new version is expected to grow 5 centimeters over the current car. It remains unclear what engines will motivate the new-age CLK, but the coupe will likely reflect the offerings of the C-Class Sedan.
