Model Update

Mercedes have spruced up the SLK Roadster with a few flicks of the design pen to leave the new model nicely detailed and as racy as ever.

Leather seats, high-tech communications and sound systems, brilliant interior ergonomics and a new draught deflector to keep the wind clear of the occupant’s necks are just some of the strong SLK features that provide one of the best open top experiences.

Superior engine performance is offered from the next generation BlueEFFICIENCY engines. Mercedes Benz SLK handling is first rate, while the car’s safety features are excellent.

The Mercedes Benz SLK range has had some very fine additions since the original description of the SLK series was added to this website. While the original models are still very much available and are highly desirable, the new Mercedes Benz SLK models merit a whole new article of their own. Each of the new Mercedes Benz SLK models have more advanced and more powerful engines.

Our attention turns to the new Mercedes Benz SLK 200 BlueEFFICIENCY. This one’s key feature is a very sporty little engine. Thanks to a highly advanced supercharger, the smallest engine packs a big punch. Really, unless you have the need of a larger engine, the 1.8-litre surcharged unit is more than suitable for the light, aerodynamic SLK body. A lot more powerful than the outgoing engine, the 135 kW, four-cylinder, petrol engine is a gem. More economical, and with a lower emissions output, this engine is a great match for the Roadster SLK-Class.

Dynamically very nimble on the road, the Mercedes Benz SLK is a pleasure to put through its paces. In the Mercedes Benz SLK 200 BlueEFFICIENCY interior you have all the luxury you could want in what is an extremely classy little package, and the leather sports seats with magnesium backrests and integral head restraints are a classy touch. The balance of comfort and support is excellent – and they are heated as well.

A fine six-cylinder, petrol motor is offered by Mercedes for the SLK Roadster. Slip into the seat of the latest Mercedes Benz SLK 350 BlueEFFICIENCY, and you’ll find that with 225 kW fed to the rear wheels this is a roadster that will get you to the board meeting on time. The SLK 350 BlueEFFICIENCY has impressive power and is capable of spinning very quickly through to high rpm. You can imagine just how nice these engines sound with the top down and the wind in your hair. The 0-100 km/h sprint is completed in 5.6 seconds, so you are going to enjoy this one.

You can still get your mitts on the outgoing AMG model. Linked to an excellent seven-speed automatic gearbox, you can experience dazzling acceleration in the Mercedes-Benz SLK 55 AMG. Not only is it the strongest engine in the roadster division, but it sounds as good as only a naturally aspirated V8 engine can. Peak power of 265 kW, and an exceptional maximum torque of 510 Nm, and you have yourself the world’s gruntiest roadster. Sprinting from 0-100 km/h in under five seconds is common practice for the AMG model.

Each Mercedes Benz SLK variant has a standard level of features that you can build off to create the SLK package to match your tastes. You’ll find that every SLK model is equipped with sports seats, adaptive front airbags (two-stage) and head/thorax sidebags for driver and front passenger, ABS, Brake Assist, a brake pad indicator, cruise control, ESP, acceleration skid control, heated seats and a parking system.

All Mercedes Benz SLKs can be fitted with bi-xenon headlamps, equipped with a headlamp cleaning system, dynamic headlamp range adjustment and a cornering light function. The cornering light provides fantastic illumination of the road ahead at speeds below 40 km/h.

Cabin comfort is second to none. Leather upholstery is standard, and can be chosen in black, crystal grey or sahara beige, each with contrasting topstitching. And nappa leather/exclusive nappa leather upholstery adds an extra touch of luxury: the seats are upholstered in finest nappa leather in bengal red, nut brown/mocha brown or black. The driver and front passenger can indulge themselves with the heated seats.

One interesting feature that aids cabin comfort while the top is down is the SLK’s AIRGUIDE draught-stop. This feature provides effective protection against draughts for the driver and passenger. The transparent pivoting elements of the AIRGUIDE are attached to the rear of the roll-over bars and deflect the airflow to reduce draughts reaching the head and neck areas of the roadster’s occupants.

Magnificent audio and communication systems are other features that set the Mercedes Benz SLK apart. The look and quality of the high tech equipment is superb. And I love the way Mercedes design work is so classy yet simple.

Whether you are a driving enthusiast at heart or just love the sexy lines of the new Mercedes Benz SLK, this is the car that will impress your lady friend (or gentleman friend!).

The current models include the:

• SLK 200 BlueEFFICIENCY
• SLK 350 BlueEFFICIENCY

For any more information on the Mercedes Benz SLK Class, or for that matter any other new car, contact one of our friendly consultants on 1300 303 181. If you’d like some fleet discount pricing (yes even for private buyers!), we can submit vehicle quotes requests out to our national network of Mercedes Benz dealers and come back with pricing within 24 hours. Private Fleet – car buying made easy!

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