Next-generation CLK-Class

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Long awaited amongst Mercedes fans, we got the first spy shots today in Stuttgart. Mercedes is hard working on the next generation CLK which is bigger and yet a bit more elegant than the outgoing model. The new CLK coupe and convertible just like their predecessor will be based on the still-new W204 C-Class saloon. Going in the same direction of the new C-Class, the CLK's chassis is expected to give greater driving dynamics and will lose some of it's softness in pursuit of a slightly younger, more performance orientated driver. Although heavily covered in flat black tape, we can see the overall shape of the CLK as well as some design details such as obvious C-Class styling in the front grille and headlamps plus trapezoidal exhaust tips for the CLK 550 model. Engines are expected to match those coming from the C-Class line-up in addition to the S-Class 382hp 5.5 liter V8 for the CLK 550 pictured here with the registration plate M ZY 1011. We expect the car to arrive at dealers in summer 2009 with the convertible following a year later.