ALTHOUGH the Mercedes-Benz CLC’s front end styling suggests it is based on the latest-generation W204 C-class sedan that was launched last year, it is actually a development of the superseded C-class Sports Coupe that first appeared in 2001 – though with a claimed 1100 new components, including an upgraded engine and interior. With super-sharp pricing, it is a tremendous value proposition and also drives better than you might expect. The new three-model range, all powered by the same 1.8-litre supercharged petrol engine developing 135kW and 250Nm, starts with the CLC200 Kompressor auto at $49,990, which is more than $8000 less than the equivalent superseded model.