The Mercedes-Benz CLC 200 CDI, produced between 2008 and 2010, was a coupe variant within the CLC (CL203) model range. Positioned as a more affordable and fuel-efficient option, it aimed to broaden the appeal of the CLC platform, which itself was based on the W203 C-Class sedan. This particular variant combined a 2.1-liter turbocharged diesel engine with a five-speed 5G-TRONIC automatic transmission, offering a blend of practicality and reasonable performance. The CLC, marketed as a sporty coupe, filled a niche between the more luxurious C-Class and the smaller, more focused SLK roadster.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | CLC |
| Generation | CLC (CL203) |
| Type (Engine) | CLC 200 CDI (122 Hp) 5G-TRONIC |
| Start of production | 2008 |
| End of production | 2010 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.6-9 l/100 km (27.4 – 26.1 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.2-6.4 l/100 km (45.2 – 36.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.6-7.1 l/100 km (35.6 – 33.1 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 169-188 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 205 km/h (127.38 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.9 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.4 kg/Nm |
| Power | 122 Hp @ 4200 rpm |
| Torque | 270 Nm @ 1600-2800 rpm (199.14 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | OM 646.962 |
| Engine displacement | 2148 cm3 (131.08 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 88 mm (3.46 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 88.3 mm (3.48 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 18:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.5 l (6.87 US qt | 5.72 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1450 kg (3196.7 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1960 kg (4321.06 lbs.) |
| Max load | 510 kg (1124.36 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 310 l (10.95 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1100 l (38.85 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 62 l (16.38 US gal | 13.64 UK gal) |
| Length | 4448 mm (175.12 in.) |
| Width | 1728 mm (68.03 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2078 mm (81.81 in.) |
| Height | 1405 mm (55.31 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2715 mm (106.89 in.) |
| Front track | 1505 mm (59.25 in.) |
| Rear track | 1476 mm (58.11 in.) |
| Front overhang | 842 mm (33.15 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 891 mm (35.08 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.77 m (35.33 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission G-TRONIC |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension, Transverse stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Front tires | 195/60 R16; 205/55 R16; 225/45 R17; 225/40 R18 |
| Rear tires | 195/60 R16; 205/55 R16; 225/45 R17; 245/35 R18 |
| Front wheel rims | 6J x 16; 7J x 16; 7.5J x 17; 7.5J x 18 |
| Rear wheel rims | 6J x 16; 7J x 16; 7.5J x 17; 8.5J x 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The CLC 200 CDI was powered by the OM 646.962, a 2.1-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This engine was a common sight in various Mercedes-Benz models of the era, known for its robust construction and relatively good fuel economy. It featured a turbocharger with an intercooler to boost power output, and utilized a common rail direct fuel injection system for precise fuel delivery. The engine produced 122 horsepower at 4200 rpm and 270 Nm (199 lb-ft) of torque between 1600 and 2800 rpm. The 5G-TRONIC automatic transmission, a five-speed unit, was specifically tuned to work with the diesel engine’s torque characteristics. While not known for rapid shifts, it provided smooth and comfortable gear changes, prioritizing fuel efficiency over outright performance.
Driving Characteristics
The CLC 200 CDI with the automatic transmission offered a relaxed and comfortable driving experience. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph took around 10.5 seconds, and top speed was limited to 127.38 mph. The automatic transmission, while smooth, did detract somewhat from the sporty image the CLC aimed for. Gear ratios were optimized for fuel economy, meaning the engine often felt strained during quick acceleration. Compared to the more powerful CLC 220 CDI or the petrol-powered CLC 180 Kompressor, the 200 CDI felt noticeably slower. However, its strong low-end torque made it well-suited for everyday driving and overtaking maneuvers on the highway.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The CLC 200 CDI typically came with a reasonable level of standard equipment. This included features like air conditioning, power windows, central locking, and an audio system. Interior upholstery was generally cloth, although leather options were available. Trim levels varied depending on the market, but common options included alloy wheels, a multi-function steering wheel, and a sunroof. The CLC wasn’t positioned as a luxury vehicle, so the interior materials were generally of good quality but not overly opulent.
Chassis & Braking
The CLC 200 CDI utilized an independent suspension setup, with McPherson struts at the front and a multi-link system at the rear. This provided a comfortable ride quality, although it wasn’t particularly sporty in its handling. Brakes consisted of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard. The suspension was tuned to balance comfort and handling, but the relatively modest power output of the 200 CDI meant that the chassis wasn’t often pushed to its limits. Stabilizer bars were fitted front and rear to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The CLC 200 CDI was generally well-received as a practical and economical coupe. Critics praised its fuel efficiency and comfortable ride, but some found the performance to be underwhelming. Compared to the petrol-powered CLC variants, the 200 CDI offered significantly better fuel economy, making it a popular choice for drivers who prioritized running costs. Against competitors like the Audi TT and BMW 1 Series Coupe, the CLC 200 CDI offered a more affordable entry point, but lacked the same level of brand prestige or sporty driving dynamics.
Legacy
The OM 646 engine family, including the 646.962 found in the CLC 200 CDI, is known for its durability and longevity. With proper maintenance, these engines can reliably exceed 200,000 miles. The 5G-TRONIC transmission is also generally reliable, although it can be susceptible to issues if not serviced regularly. On the used car market, the CLC 200 CDI represents a relatively affordable entry into Mercedes-Benz ownership. Its fuel efficiency and robust engine make it a practical choice for those seeking a stylish and economical coupe. However, potential buyers should be aware of the age-related issues common to older vehicles, such as wear and tear on suspension components and potential electrical problems.
