Auto Channel

Still not expected until sometime before summer 2009, the next generation Mercedes-Benz CLK was spied testing in a winter wonderland earlier today. Although a bit bigger than the current CLK, the next generation looks a little more classy, too.

The photographer noted this CLK was "a bit more elegant than the outgoing model."

Mercedes is basing this third-generation car on the C-Class Saloon, so we anticipate seeing a great bit more design touches underneath the black tape. Engines to be used on the new CLK will originate in the C-Class production line, including a 380+ horsepower V8 for a forthcoming CLK 500.

A CLK 460 with a 270+ horsepower V6 is rumored to be on the way, as well as a 500+ horsepower CLK 63 AMG could be in the pipeline, should the bosses in Stuttgart approve.

Either way, many believe the CLK will be rear wheel drive, with 4Matic available as an option. There have been reports that the CLK may steal some technologies from the S-Class, like adaptive cruise control, night vision, and the Pre-Safe 2 system, which helps lessen accident impact by automatically slowing a car down.