Special-edition takes on aging models are common in the auto industry, helping to speed sales of the soon-to-be-replaced cars to make way for the new model year hardware. The next-generation CLK is due to go on sale late this year or early next year, but until then, Mercedes is offering both the coupe and convertible in a special Grand Edition.

Starting at the bottom, Mercedes equips the Grand Edition cars with 18-inch alloy wheels shod in 225/40 rubber up front and 255/35 out back. Perforated discs add some appeal to the brakes, special ‘Grand Edition’ badging at the rear and sides makes it clear this isn’t the standard CLK, and AMG-style lower body work gives the car a subtly aggressive look.

The Grand Edition also gets a special color palette to choose from: Palladium Silver, Obsidian Black, Indium Grey and Irridium Silver. Inside, the upholstery can be outfitted in either tobacco-brown or black leather. Aluminum trim on the dashboard and Grand Edition-embroidered mats complement the aluminum-look pedals to give the car a custom look.

The Grand Edition treatment is available as an option on all CLK models, with the exception of the CLK 63 AMG. The package costs a scant €994 (US$1,550).

The current-generation CLK has been on the market in essentially unchanged form since 2002. The new model will be a full update, to help the car compete more closely with competitors from BMW, Audi and Lexus.