2010 Mercedes CLC Class review

[MercedesDubai]

The CLC is the latest version of the C-Class Sport Coupe, which is essentially a shorter three-door hatchback version of the C-Class sedan.

And although the 2010 CLC looks like the latest 2010 C-Class – same headlights and oversized Mercedes roundel in the centre of the grille – it’s is essentially the same car as the C-Class Sport Coupe that was first launched back in 2001.

Though Mercedes is keen to stress that the latest CLC has 1,000 improvements over the original C-Class Sport Coupe, fundamentally the platform that underpins the car is more than 10 years old. It’s the Mercedes alternative to the likes of the BMW 1 Series and Audi A3.

That’s not to say it’s a bad car, but it’s not a newly developed car like the CLC’s four-door sedan brethren. Still, for those looking at their first step into Mercedes-Benz ownership it is a cheap way to start – the price differentials at the bottom end of the range aren’t too great, however once you get into CLC 350 territory, you’ll find the equivalent C-Class costs a good 30,000Dhs more. That CLC 350 is the top of the range model available as the CLC line-up is one of the few within Mercedes that doesn’t offer a hardcore AMG version.

Space is good up front, but somewhat limited in the back owing to the sharply raked rear screen, which impedes on overall leg, shoulder and headroom. The driving experience is pretty good, if not quite as honed as the bigger models within the Mercedes family.

SOURCE: http://automiddleeast.com/2010-mercedes-benz-clc-class/