Although its design and styling was derived from the E-Class, the mechanical underpinnings were based on the smaller C-Class, and was positioned between the Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class and CL-Class.

For the 2024 model year, Mercedes is releasing the CLE-Class which like the CLK-Class will share platforms and components with the C-Class and E-Class.

In total 233,367 units of the first generation CLK were manufactured in its coupé form and additional 115,161 cabriolets.

[4] The car was available in both hardtop coupé (C209) and in soft-top convertible form (A209), with a choice of petrol and diesel engines.

[9] In 2013, the C207/A207 received a facelift, featuring updated design changes and performance and fuel economy improvements.