2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class Model Update

Smooth And Sporty

The CLK coupe and convertible get a more potent base V6, while the CLK55 AMG coupe is discontinued, leaving only the convertible version.

The CLK-Class of compact coupes and convertibles receives both cosmetic and functional upgrades for 2006. Most significant among them is the addition of a larger and more powerful base six-cylinder engine.

2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK 350 Cabriolet + enlarge image  |  view gallery >

Although it's a stylish and luxurious car that is enjoyable to drive, the CLK has much worse than average reliability, according to Consumer Reports.

A revised grille, front apron and taillights comprise the minor exterior tweaks, along with new five-spoke aluminum wheels.

The base model is renamed from CLK 320 to CLK 350 by virtue of its new 268-hp, 3.5-liter V6 engine. This powerplant drives the rear wheels via a seven-speed automatic transmission with Adaptive Shift Control that automatically alters gear-shift patterns according to the way the car is being driven.

A manual transmission remains unavailable on CLK models, which speaks to Mercedes skewing the car more toward luxury than sport.

The high-performance CLK55 AMG coupe is discontinued for 2006, leaving only the convertible model. It’s powered by a 362-hp, 5.5-liter V8 engine mated to a modified five-speed automatic with Adaptive Shift Control and Speedshift manual shift capability.

2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK55 AMG + enlarge image  |  view gallery >

 As with Mercedes' other AMG models, the CLK55 AMG has a host of suspension, braking, steering and other upgrades to increase performance and handling. Styling tweaks include a rear spoiler, aluminum trim, special wheels and different bumpers with larger and more air intakes.

A 514-hp, 6.3-liter V8 is being introduced across Mercedes' lineup and will power a new CLK model called the CLK63 AMG. It will go on sale in the summer of 2006 as a 2007 model. The super coupe will also feature a new seven-speed Speedshift automatic transmission.

The CLK 500 continues with its 302-hp, 5.0-liter V8 and seven-speed automatic. For 2006, this model gets a sportier looking interior and a specially tuned AMG exhaust system.

A firmer and lowered sport-tuned suspension can be added to the CLK 350 and CLK 500 for $210.

Standard safety and chassis-control systems are plentiful in the CLK, with active head restraints intended to reduce whiplash injuries new for 2006. Other safety features include four-wheel disc power antilock brakes with Brake Assist, Electronic Stability Control and Automatic Slip Control, as well as standard front, front-side and head-curtain airbags (the latter for front and rear occupants). Rear side airbags are optional.

2006 CLK 350 Cabriolet + enlarge image  |  view gallery >

The CLK is quite luxurious, with a smooth ride, velvety controls and a long list of standard amenities. Optional features include a navigation system, adaptive cruise control and high-intensity Xenon headlamps with Active Curve Illumination.

Convertible versions (which include the CLK 350 Cabriolet, CLK 500 Cabriolet and CLK55 AMG Cabriolet) feature a multilayer, fully automatic soft top with a glass rear window that when closed makes the interior nearly as quiet as the coupe. The retracted top takes up trunk space, which is plentiful for a convertible, and has a partition that lifts out of the way to create more space when the top is up.

Rear-seat space is decent, though tall occupants will want only to ride in convertible versions with the top down.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has not crash tested the 2006 CLK.