As the curtain prepared to fall on its generation with a significant redesign looming the following year, the Mercedes-Benz 2009 CLK 350 remained a compelling option in the luxury performance coupe market. Far from being a mere holdover, the 2009 CLK continued to showcase many of the attributes that made it a desirable vehicle for discerning drivers.
One of the most distinctive and enduring design elements of this CLK generation is undoubtedly its pillarless design. The absence of a B-pillar—the vertical support typically positioned behind the front windows—lends the Mercedes-Benz 2009 CLK 350 an air of sophisticated elegance and open-feeling spaciousness. This stylistic touch has proven timeless, contributing significantly to the CLK’s lasting appeal even as newer models emerged. The convertible variant, notably the only Mercedes-Benz convertible capable of comfortably seating four adults, also benefits from this clean aesthetic, especially when its classic soft top is folded away.
Under the hood, the 2009 CLK 350 delivers satisfying power. Its engine produces a robust 268 horsepower, providing ample acceleration and a refined driving experience expected from the Mercedes-Benz marque. For those seeking even more exhilarating performance, the CLK range also offered the CLK550, boasting a formidable 382 horsepower.
However, in the fiercely competitive realm of luxury performance coupes and convertibles, striking looks and potent engines are just part of the equation. The Mercedes-Benz 2009 CLK 350 faced a significant hurdle: its price point. With a base price hovering near $47,000 for the V6 model, it positioned itself as one of the more expensive choices in its class.
When it comes to driving dynamics, the Mercedes-Benz 2009 CLK 350, while comfortable and composed, was surpassed by rivals renowned for their agility and driver engagement. The BMW 335i, for instance, offered sharper handling and a more responsive feel, along with greater horsepower and torque, often at a more accessible price than the CLK 350. Similarly, the Audi A5, celebrated for its stunning design and meticulously crafted interior, presented a compelling alternative with sporty performance and a wealth of standard features, again often aligning closer in price to the BMW 335i. The Infiniti G37 also emerged as a strong contender, particularly appealing to budget-conscious buyers seeking comparable performance at a lower price. For those considering the V8-powered CLK550, models like the BMW M3 and Audi S5 presented themselves as worthy alternatives, offering heightened performance capabilities.
In conclusion, the Mercedes-Benz 2009 CLK 350 remained a respectable luxury coupe, carrying forward established Mercedes-Benz qualities of style and power. However, prospective buyers in 2009, and indeed those considering the used market today, would be wise to weigh its strengths against its higher price and less dynamic driving experience compared to a range of compelling competitors. While the CLK 350 held its own, many drivers might find the offerings from BMW, Audi, and Infiniti ultimately more persuasive.
