Trying to find out what version my CLC200 2.1 cdi
- Thread starter Pedro1963
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You can see for yourself very easily by looking at the Vin# in your V5 or bottom left windscreen from outside the car.
It will read something like WDB203........... Or WDB204........... so you'll know whether you have a 203 or 204.
According to Wikipedia, the CLC was a 203 even after the W204 arrived in 2008.
in European markets.
Coupe
2000–2008: SportCoupé (CL203)
2001–2004 Mercedes-Benz C 220 CDI SportCoupé
2001–2004 Mercedes-Benz C 200 K SportCoupé
2005–2007 Mercedes-Benz C 180 K Super Sport coupe
2005–2007 Mercedes-Benz C 180 K Super Sport coupe
Mercedes introduced the C-Class SportCoupé (codenamed CL203) to Europe in October 2000 as a three-door hatchback coupe with a fastback profile, based on the regular W203 C-Class range. North American sales began in 2001 for the 2002 model year.
Where the C-Class sedan and wagon had the traditional Mercedes horizontal bar grille with the hood ornament, the coupé had a star-grille front end. The coupé also had a fastback roofline and functional rear spoiler to provide downforce at high speeds. With an optional panoramic sunroof, the coupé was seven inches (178 mm) shorter overall than the sedan, while sharing the same wheelbase length.[13]
Initial engines included the C 180 (139 PS), C 220 (143 PS), C 200 Kompressor, and C 230 Kompressor. In 2003, Mercedes-Benz added the C 180 Kompressor, followed by the C 200 CGI in 2003, and finally the C 160 Kompressor in 2005. The C 230 SportCoupé was powered by a 2.3-litre supercharged, four-cylinder motor. It offered 143 kW (192 hp) and 281 N⋅m (207 lb⋅ft) of torque. The 2.3 litre supercharged inline-four engine (M111) was considered to be coarse and noisy at the high end and was replaced in 2003 with a quieter and more efficient DOHC supercharged 1.8 litre (M271).[7][14]
The C 230 base model enabled the automaker to reach a lower price point than existing models sold in North America,[15] some[who?]suggested that the hatchback configuration (as "liftback" is almost never used in North America) and the "inexpensive Mercedes" moniker would undermine the marque which was traditionally composed of expensive cars. It also lacked standard leather seats and a CD player, amenities typically expected of German luxury imports.
The C 230 Sport Coupe and the C 320 Sport Coupe were the two most inexpensive models in the U.S. and Canadian C-Class lineup at the time.[14][15]
Mercedes found that the Sportcoupé was a popular first Mercedes for new customers, 40 per cent of whom reportedly return to subsequently buy more expensive models.[16][17][18]
2008–2011: CLC-Class (CL203)[edit]
Mercedes-Benz CLC 200 K
Mercedes-Benz CLC 200 K
The SportCoupé was spun off into its own separate line called the CLC-Class in 2008. The car was presented at the 2008 Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Berlin, which took place from 27 to 31 January.[19] The CLC was produced in Brazil at the company’s plant in Juiz de Fora, close to the state border with Rio de Janeiro.[20]
Although the CLC is still based on the W203 platform, it was facelifted with an updated front and tail inspired by the W204 series C-Class. The refresh reworked the rear and front along with some other refinements and new details (Mercedes claimed around 1,100 components), including a steering system borrowed from the SLK-Class and a revised suspension.[21] Out of the sheetmetal of the CLC-Class, only the doors, roof and quarter panels were carried over from the C-Class Sportcoupé. The interior is still largely similar to the first-generation SportCoupé, although it did receive the Steering wheel from the face lifted W219 and an updated optional navigation system.
Some auto journalists noted that the improvements were limited in order to differentiate the CLC-Class and protect the status of the more lucrative marques in the lineup; one reviewer stated the "CLC does just about enough to introduce new customers to the world of Mercedes" and that it had the "feel of an authentic Mercedes-Benz, which is more than I’d say about the A-Class and B-Class front-wheel-drive hatchbacks".[22] Due to the age of the W203 platform which "exudes a level of float and wallow" not found in the W204 C-Class, the CLC received mixed reviews against sportier rivals such as the BMW 1 Series coupé (a successful replacement of the 3 Series hatchback).[22]
In 2009 the CLC 160 BlueEFFICIENCY was added to the range, and the CLC 230 was rechristened as the CLC 250.
Daimler AG decided that the CLC would not continue production. Instead, the W204 C-Class received a traditionally designed coupé added to the lineup for the 2012 model year, coinciding with the facelifted W204 sedan/saloon in the fourth quarter of 2011. The 2012 C-Class Coupe is positioned directly against the BMW 3 Series Coupé.
It will read something like WDB203........... Or WDB204........... so you'll know whether you have a 203 or 204.
According to Wikipedia, the CLC was a 203 even after the W204 arrived in 2008.
in European markets.
Coupe
2000–2008: SportCoupé (CL203)
_front_20100704.jpg)
2001–2004 Mercedes-Benz C 220 CDI SportCoupé
_Sports_hatchback_(2010-07-05).jpg)
2001–2004 Mercedes-Benz C 200 K SportCoupé
_Super_Sport_hatchback_(2015-07-03)_01.jpg)
2005–2007 Mercedes-Benz C 180 K Super Sport coupe
_Super_Sport_hatchback_(2015-07-03)_02.jpg)
2005–2007 Mercedes-Benz C 180 K Super Sport coupe
Mercedes introduced the C-Class SportCoupé (codenamed CL203) to Europe in October 2000 as a three-door hatchback coupe with a fastback profile, based on the regular W203 C-Class range. North American sales began in 2001 for the 2002 model year.
Where the C-Class sedan and wagon had the traditional Mercedes horizontal bar grille with the hood ornament, the coupé had a star-grille front end. The coupé also had a fastback roofline and functional rear spoiler to provide downforce at high speeds. With an optional panoramic sunroof, the coupé was seven inches (178 mm) shorter overall than the sedan, while sharing the same wheelbase length.[13]
Initial engines included the C 180 (139 PS), C 220 (143 PS), C 200 Kompressor, and C 230 Kompressor. In 2003, Mercedes-Benz added the C 180 Kompressor, followed by the C 200 CGI in 2003, and finally the C 160 Kompressor in 2005. The C 230 SportCoupé was powered by a 2.3-litre supercharged, four-cylinder motor. It offered 143 kW (192 hp) and 281 N⋅m (207 lb⋅ft) of torque. The 2.3 litre supercharged inline-four engine (M111) was considered to be coarse and noisy at the high end and was replaced in 2003 with a quieter and more efficient DOHC supercharged 1.8 litre (M271).[7][14]
The C 230 base model enabled the automaker to reach a lower price point than existing models sold in North America,[15] some[who?]suggested that the hatchback configuration (as "liftback" is almost never used in North America) and the "inexpensive Mercedes" moniker would undermine the marque which was traditionally composed of expensive cars. It also lacked standard leather seats and a CD player, amenities typically expected of German luxury imports.
The C 230 Sport Coupe and the C 320 Sport Coupe were the two most inexpensive models in the U.S. and Canadian C-Class lineup at the time.[14][15]
Mercedes found that the Sportcoupé was a popular first Mercedes for new customers, 40 per cent of whom reportedly return to subsequently buy more expensive models.[16][17][18]
2008–2011: CLC-Class (CL203)[edit]
_hatchback_(2011-11-17)_01.jpg)
Mercedes-Benz CLC 200 K
_hatchback_(2011-11-17)_03.jpg)
Mercedes-Benz CLC 200 K
The SportCoupé was spun off into its own separate line called the CLC-Class in 2008. The car was presented at the 2008 Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Berlin, which took place from 27 to 31 January.[19] The CLC was produced in Brazil at the company’s plant in Juiz de Fora, close to the state border with Rio de Janeiro.[20]
Although the CLC is still based on the W203 platform, it was facelifted with an updated front and tail inspired by the W204 series C-Class. The refresh reworked the rear and front along with some other refinements and new details (Mercedes claimed around 1,100 components), including a steering system borrowed from the SLK-Class and a revised suspension.[21] Out of the sheetmetal of the CLC-Class, only the doors, roof and quarter panels were carried over from the C-Class Sportcoupé. The interior is still largely similar to the first-generation SportCoupé, although it did receive the Steering wheel from the face lifted W219 and an updated optional navigation system.
Some auto journalists noted that the improvements were limited in order to differentiate the CLC-Class and protect the status of the more lucrative marques in the lineup; one reviewer stated the "CLC does just about enough to introduce new customers to the world of Mercedes" and that it had the "feel of an authentic Mercedes-Benz, which is more than I’d say about the A-Class and B-Class front-wheel-drive hatchbacks".[22] Due to the age of the W203 platform which "exudes a level of float and wallow" not found in the W204 C-Class, the CLC received mixed reviews against sportier rivals such as the BMW 1 Series coupé (a successful replacement of the 3 Series hatchback).[22]
In 2009 the CLC 160 BlueEFFICIENCY was added to the range, and the CLC 230 was rechristened as the CLC 250.
Daimler AG decided that the CLC would not continue production. Instead, the W204 C-Class received a traditionally designed coupé added to the lineup for the 2012 model year, coinciding with the facelifted W204 sedan/saloon in the fourth quarter of 2011. The 2012 C-Class Coupe is positioned directly against the BMW 3 Series Coupé.
Pedro1963
New Member
Hi thank u so much for all your help from what u show me its the 204You can see for yourself very easily by looking at the Vin# in your V5 or bottom left windscreen from outside the car.
It will read something like WDB203........... Or WDB204........... so you'll know whether you have a 203 or 204.
According to Wikipedia, the CLC was a 203 even after the W204 arrived in 2008.
in European markets.
Coupe
2000–2008: SportCoupé (CL203)
2001–2004 Mercedes-Benz C 220 CDI SportCoupé
2001–2004 Mercedes-Benz C 200 K SportCoupé
2005–2007 Mercedes-Benz C 180 K Super Sport coupe
2005–2007 Mercedes-Benz C 180 K Super Sport coupe
Mercedes introduced the C-Class SportCoupé (codenamed CL203) to Europe in October 2000 as a three-door hatchback coupe with a fastback profile, based on the regular W203 C-Class range. North American sales began in 2001 for the 2002 model year.
Where the C-Class sedan and wagon had the traditional Mercedes horizontal bar grille with the hood ornament, the coupé had a star-grille front end. The coupé also had a fastback roofline and functional rear spoiler to provide downforce at high speeds. With an optional panoramic sunroof, the coupé was seven inches (178 mm) shorter overall than the sedan, while sharing the same wheelbase length.[13]
Initial engines included the C 180 (139 PS), C 220 (143 PS), C 200 Kompressor, and C 230 Kompressor. In 2003, Mercedes-Benz added the C 180 Kompressor, followed by the C 200 CGI in 2003, and finally the C 160 Kompressor in 2005. The C 230 SportCoupé was powered by a 2.3-litre supercharged, four-cylinder motor. It offered 143 kW (192 hp) and 281 N⋅m (207 lb⋅ft) of torque. The 2.3 litre supercharged inline-four engine (M111) was considered to be coarse and noisy at the high end and was replaced in 2003 with a quieter and more efficient DOHC supercharged 1.8 litre (M271).[7][14]
The C 230 base model enabled the automaker to reach a lower price point than existing models sold in North America,[15] some[who?]suggested that the hatchback configuration (as "liftback" is almost never used in North America) and the "inexpensive Mercedes" moniker would undermine the marque which was traditionally composed of expensive cars. It also lacked standard leather seats and a CD player, amenities typically expected of German luxury imports.
The C 230 Sport Coupe and the C 320 Sport Coupe were the two most inexpensive models in the U.S. and Canadian C-Class lineup at the time.[14][15]
Mercedes found that the Sportcoupé was a popular first Mercedes for new customers, 40 per cent of whom reportedly return to subsequently buy more expensive models.[16][17][18]
2008–2011: CLC-Class (CL203)[edit]
Mercedes-Benz CLC 200 K
Mercedes-Benz CLC 200 K
The SportCoupé was spun off into its own separate line called the CLC-Class in 2008. The car was presented at the 2008 Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Berlin, which took place from 27 to 31 January.[19] The CLC was produced in Brazil at the company’s plant in Juiz de Fora, close to the state border with Rio de Janeiro.[20]
Although the CLC is still based on the W203 platform, it was facelifted with an updated front and tail inspired by the W204 series C-Class. The refresh reworked the rear and front along with some other refinements and new details (Mercedes claimed around 1,100 components), including a steering system borrowed from the SLK-Class and a revised suspension.[21] Out of the sheetmetal of the CLC-Class, only the doors, roof and quarter panels were carried over from the C-Class Sportcoupé. The interior is still largely similar to the first-generation SportCoupé, although it did receive the Steering wheel from the face lifted W219 and an updated optional navigation system.
Some auto journalists noted that the improvements were limited in order to differentiate the CLC-Class and protect the status of the more lucrative marques in the lineup; one reviewer stated the "CLC does just about enough to introduce new customers to the world of Mercedes" and that it had the "feel of an authentic Mercedes-Benz, which is more than I’d say about the A-Class and B-Class front-wheel-drive hatchbacks".[22] Due to the age of the W203 platform which "exudes a level of float and wallow" not found in the W204 C-Class, the CLC received mixed reviews against sportier rivals such as the BMW 1 Series coupé (a successful replacement of the 3 Series hatchback).[22]
In 2009 the CLC 160 BlueEFFICIENCY was added to the range, and the CLC 230 was rechristened as the CLC 250.
Daimler AG decided that the CLC would not continue production. Instead, the W204 C-Class received a traditionally designed coupé added to the lineup for the 2012 model year, coinciding with the facelifted W204 sedan/saloon in the fourth quarter of 2011. The 2012 C-Class Coupe is positioned directly against the BMW 3 Series Coupé.
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Regardless of the official MB model number designation for the CLC, what you have is in fact a hybrid made up of W203/CL203 floorpan, drivetrain, and cabin, mated with W204-style body panels.
So 90% of the parts will be interchangeable with the W203/CL203, the other 10% will look like W204 parts but will in fact be unique to the CLC.
Pedro1963
New Member
Thank u now can u help with the satnavi have been in the engineer menu and u can update the firmware which u can down load direct from Mercedes question is is it the 203 I download and put on dvd and do I keep it zip up or expanded to installYou can see for yourself very easily by looking at the Vin# in your V5 or bottom left windscreen from outside the car.
It will read something like WDB203........... Or WDB204........... so you'll know whether you have a 203 or 204.
According to Wikipedia, the CLC was a 203 even after the W204 arrived in 2008.
in European markets.
Coupe
2000–2008: SportCoupé (CL203)
2001–2004 Mercedes-Benz C 220 CDI SportCoupé
2001–2004 Mercedes-Benz C 200 K SportCoupé
2005–2007 Mercedes-Benz C 180 K Super Sport coupe
2005–2007 Mercedes-Benz C 180 K Super Sport coupe
Mercedes introduced the C-Class SportCoupé (codenamed CL203) to Europe in October 2000 as a three-door hatchback coupe with a fastback profile, based on the regular W203 C-Class range. North American sales began in 2001 for the 2002 model year.
Where the C-Class sedan and wagon had the traditional Mercedes horizontal bar grille with the hood ornament, the coupé had a star-grille front end. The coupé also had a fastback roofline and functional rear spoiler to provide downforce at high speeds. With an optional panoramic sunroof, the coupé was seven inches (178 mm) shorter overall than the sedan, while sharing the same wheelbase length.[13]
Initial engines included the C 180 (139 PS), C 220 (143 PS), C 200 Kompressor, and C 230 Kompressor. In 2003, Mercedes-Benz added the C 180 Kompressor, followed by the C 200 CGI in 2003, and finally the C 160 Kompressor in 2005. The C 230 SportCoupé was powered by a 2.3-litre supercharged, four-cylinder motor. It offered 143 kW (192 hp) and 281 N⋅m (207 lb⋅ft) of torque. The 2.3 litre supercharged inline-four engine (M111) was considered to be coarse and noisy at the high end and was replaced in 2003 with a quieter and more efficient DOHC supercharged 1.8 litre (M271).[7][14]
The C 230 base model enabled the automaker to reach a lower price point than existing models sold in North America,[15] some[who?]suggested that the hatchback configuration (as "liftback" is almost never used in North America) and the "inexpensive Mercedes" moniker would undermine the marque which was traditionally composed of expensive cars. It also lacked standard leather seats and a CD player, amenities typically expected of German luxury imports.
The C 230 Sport Coupe and the C 320 Sport Coupe were the two most inexpensive models in the U.S. and Canadian C-Class lineup at the time.[14][15]
Mercedes found that the Sportcoupé was a popular first Mercedes for new customers, 40 per cent of whom reportedly return to subsequently buy more expensive models.[16][17][18]
2008–2011: CLC-Class (CL203)[edit]
Mercedes-Benz CLC 200 K
Mercedes-Benz CLC 200 K
The SportCoupé was spun off into its own separate line called the CLC-Class in 2008. The car was presented at the 2008 Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Berlin, which took place from 27 to 31 January.[19] The CLC was produced in Brazil at the company’s plant in Juiz de Fora, close to the state border with Rio de Janeiro.[20]
Although the CLC is still based on the W203 platform, it was facelifted with an updated front and tail inspired by the W204 series C-Class. The refresh reworked the rear and front along with some other refinements and new details (Mercedes claimed around 1,100 components), including a steering system borrowed from the SLK-Class and a revised suspension.[21] Out of the sheetmetal of the CLC-Class, only the doors, roof and quarter panels were carried over from the C-Class Sportcoupé. The interior is still largely similar to the first-generation SportCoupé, although it did receive the Steering wheel from the face lifted W219 and an updated optional navigation system.
Some auto journalists noted that the improvements were limited in order to differentiate the CLC-Class and protect the status of the more lucrative marques in the lineup; one reviewer stated the "CLC does just about enough to introduce new customers to the world of Mercedes" and that it had the "feel of an authentic Mercedes-Benz, which is more than I’d say about the A-Class and B-Class front-wheel-drive hatchbacks".[22] Due to the age of the W203 platform which "exudes a level of float and wallow" not found in the W204 C-Class, the CLC received mixed reviews against sportier rivals such as the BMW 1 Series coupé (a successful replacement of the 3 Series hatchback).[22]
In 2009 the CLC 160 BlueEFFICIENCY was added to the range, and the CLC 230 was rechristened as the CLC 250.
Daimler AG decided that the CLC would not continue production. Instead, the W204 C-Class received a traditionally designed coupé added to the lineup for the 2012 model year, coinciding with the facelifted W204 sedan/saloon in the fourth quarter of 2011. The 2012 C-Class Coupe is positioned directly against the BMW 3 Series Coupé.
Last edited:
Pedro1963
New Member
Hi guys I have the CLC200 cdi 2009 and the satnav need the firmware updating I have down load from Mercedes web site direct question it do I keep it zip up to install or expand to in stall as I wish to up date the maps as I have the system that has the SD card for maps and dvd can any one help me please
And is the NTG 2.5 or the NTG 2 I can use for the maps or Europe
And is the NTG 2.5 or the NTG 2 I can use for the maps or Europe
Last edited:
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If your car was factory-fitted with COMAND SatNav, then it will most likely be COMAND NTG2.5 (with the SD-Card slot above the CD drive).
Firmware updates for NTG2.5 can not be downloaded from MB's website and can not be installed DIY. Instead it can only be done via MB STAR diagnostic computer, which means a visit to an MB dealer or a specialist with the right equipment.
Also, NTG2.5 has a built-in 40gb Hard Disk Drive, and the maps update are done by copying the maps from the maps DVD onto the internal HDD. So the maps DVD itself is no longer required after the maps update is done.
On the C-Class, the NTG2.5 is unique to the CLC. The W203 cars up to 2008 had NTG2, while the W204 cars from 2008 had NTG4.
If you are near Lightwater, go and see www.comand.co.uk, they can update both the firmware and the maps for you.
See also:
http://www.mercupgrades.com/COMAND+++All+about+the+different+Mercedes+COMAND+systems-article-54.html
And scroll down to 'NTG2.5'.
Firmware updates for NTG2.5 can not be downloaded from MB's website and can not be installed DIY. Instead it can only be done via MB STAR diagnostic computer, which means a visit to an MB dealer or a specialist with the right equipment.
Also, NTG2.5 has a built-in 40gb Hard Disk Drive, and the maps update are done by copying the maps from the maps DVD onto the internal HDD. So the maps DVD itself is no longer required after the maps update is done.
On the C-Class, the NTG2.5 is unique to the CLC. The W203 cars up to 2008 had NTG2, while the W204 cars from 2008 had NTG4.
If you are near Lightwater, go and see www.comand.co.uk, they can update both the firmware and the maps for you.
See also:
http://www.mercupgrades.com/COMAND+++All+about+the+different+Mercedes+COMAND+systems-article-54.html
And scroll down to 'NTG2.5'.
Last edited:
Pedro1963
New Member
Hi there thank u for being so quick I have the satnav with SD card reader so u are saying the map I need should be NTG4 am I right
Pedro1963
New Member
Hi this is the system I have but if I had the dvd and go in to engineer menu can I still update the mapsCOMAND NTG2.5:
Note the SD-Card slot on top of the CD slot.
Is this the COMAND unit you have? If so then you have NTG2.5.
Pedro1963
New Member
This is it my system can I just update maps with out update firmwareCOMAND NTG2.5:
Note the SD-Card slot on top of the CD slot.
Is this the COMAND unit you have? If so then you have NTG2.5.
Hi u have been a BIG help sir
Yes mark it is I now how to get in the the engineer menu to update maps but do I still need a PIN number to update the maps from dvd
Last edited:
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No PIN needed for NTG2.5. Just insert the DVD and copy the maps.
Comand APS Map 2017 Europe update DVD for NTG2.5 in A B CLC W211-E CLS SL SLK ML GL R Vans
But depending on the current version of the firmware, you may need to have it updates before installing the new maps.
Pedro1963
New Member
Hi makjay
I hav had my firmware updated and I am waiting on the new maps to turn up can u tell me if my 2.5 unit 40G hard drive will hold the new maps or do I need to upgrade the hard drive as well
Thank for the feed back so far
And thank u so much help u have given me
Pedro1963
New Member
Pedro1963
New Member
Thank u so much man great help again on 40gb hard drive if new maps would fit again thank u for getting back to me ;-)
Pedro1963
New Member
Thanks for support I found it a 203 707 version 2009 underpowered and my 20006 c220 coupe was so much better so don’t buy c200cdi coupeYou can see for yourself very easily by looking at the Vin# in your V5 or bottom left windscreen from outside the car.
It will read something like WDB203........... Or WDB204........... so you'll know whether you have a 203 or 204.
According to Wikipedia, the CLC was a 203 even after the W204 arrived in 2008.
in European markets.
Coupe
2000–2008: SportCoupé (CL203)
2001–2004 Mercedes-Benz C 220 CDI SportCoupé
2001–2004 Mercedes-Benz C 200 K SportCoupé
2005–2007 Mercedes-Benz C 180 K Super Sport coupe
2005–2007 Mercedes-Benz C 180 K Super Sport coupe
Mercedes introduced the C-Class SportCoupé (codenamed CL203) to Europe in October 2000 as a three-door hatchback coupe with a fastback profile, based on the regular W203 C-Class range. North American sales began in 2001 for the 2002 model year.
Where the C-Class sedan and wagon had the traditional Mercedes horizontal bar grille with the hood ornament, the coupé had a star-grille front end. The coupé also had a fastback roofline and functional rear spoiler to provide downforce at high speeds. With an optional panoramic sunroof, the coupé was seven inches (178 mm) shorter overall than the sedan, while sharing the same wheelbase length.[13]
Initial engines included the C 180 (139 PS), C 220 (143 PS), C 200 Kompressor, and C 230 Kompressor. In 2003, Mercedes-Benz added the C 180 Kompressor, followed by the C 200 CGI in 2003, and finally the C 160 Kompressor in 2005. The C 230 SportCoupé was powered by a 2.3-litre supercharged, four-cylinder motor. It offered 143 kW (192 hp) and 281 N⋅m (207 lb⋅ft) of torque. The 2.3 litre supercharged inline-four engine (M111) was considered to be coarse and noisy at the high end and was replaced in 2003 with a quieter and more efficient DOHC supercharged 1.8 litre (M271).[7][14]
The C 230 base model enabled the automaker to reach a lower price point than existing models sold in North America,[15] some[who?]suggested that the hatchback configuration (as "liftback" is almost never used in North America) and the "inexpensive Mercedes" moniker would undermine the marque which was traditionally composed of expensive cars. It also lacked standard leather seats and a CD player, amenities typically expected of German luxury imports.
The C 230 Sport Coupe and the C 320 Sport Coupe were the two most inexpensive models in the U.S. and Canadian C-Class lineup at the time.[14][15]
Mercedes found that the Sportcoupé was a popular first Mercedes for new customers, 40 per cent of whom reportedly return to subsequently buy more expensive models.[16][17][18]
2008–2011: CLC-Class (CL203)[edit]
Mercedes-Benz CLC 200 K
Mercedes-Benz CLC 200 K
The SportCoupé was spun off into its own separate line called the CLC-Class in 2008. The car was presented at the 2008 Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Berlin, which took place from 27 to 31 January.[19] The CLC was produced in Brazil at the company’s plant in Juiz de Fora, close to the state border with Rio de Janeiro.[20]
Although the CLC is still based on the W203 platform, it was facelifted with an updated front and tail inspired by the W204 series C-Class. The refresh reworked the rear and front along with some other refinements and new details (Mercedes claimed around 1,100 components), including a steering system borrowed from the SLK-Class and a revised suspension.[21] Out of the sheetmetal of the CLC-Class, only the doors, roof and quarter panels were carried over from the C-Class Sportcoupé. The interior is still largely similar to the first-generation SportCoupé, although it did receive the Steering wheel from the face lifted W219 and an updated optional navigation system.
Some auto journalists noted that the improvements were limited in order to differentiate the CLC-Class and protect the status of the more lucrative marques in the lineup; one reviewer stated the "CLC does just about enough to introduce new customers to the world of Mercedes" and that it had the "feel of an authentic Mercedes-Benz, which is more than I’d say about the A-Class and B-Class front-wheel-drive hatchbacks".[22] Due to the age of the W203 platform which "exudes a level of float and wallow" not found in the W204 C-Class, the CLC received mixed reviews against sportier rivals such as the BMW 1 Series coupé (a successful replacement of the 3 Series hatchback).[22]
In 2009 the CLC 160 BlueEFFICIENCY was added to the range, and the CLC 230 was rechristened as the CLC 250.
Daimler AG decided that the CLC would not continue production. Instead, the W204 C-Class received a traditionally designed coupé added to the lineup for the 2012 model year, coinciding with the facelifted W204 sedan/saloon in the fourth quarter of 2011. The 2012 C-Class Coupe is positioned directly against the BMW 3 Series Coupé.
