The new SLK Roadster keeps its classic roadster proportions, but features a totally new design that resembles the legendary 190 SL from the 1950s. The front is distinguished by upright radiator grille with contoured chromed fin, a long and well-proportioned hood with light-catching contours and wide headlamps – which for the first time boast all-LED technology. The front is generally more striking, steeper front and larger, with the Cd cut to just 0.30.
The SLK’s side profile is also defined by fine details that embodies aesthetics of the highest caliber and is a visual cue to the sportiness and driving pleasure in store. The ventilation grilles in the front fenders also get chromed fin, reminiscent of the famous Mercedes-Benz roadsters of the 1950s. The rear is dominated by a muscular wing.
Interior
Like with the exterior, the interior is also characterized by stylish sportiness and high-quality, authentic materials: the center console and other trim parts are brushed in aluminum, or on client’s request in high quality wood offered in high-gloss dark brown walnut or high-gloss black ash. The round dials are flanked by a display for the information generated by the online computer, while the top of the dashboard gets a fine analogue clock. The multifunction sports steering wheel and the sun-reflecting leather are covered in leather.
Of course one of the most important features of the new SLK Roadster is the MAGIC SKY CONTROL. This glass roof switches to light or dark as you wish at the press of a button. When light it is virtually transparent, offering an open-air experience even in cold weather. In its dark state the roof provides welcome shade and prevents the interior from heating up when the sun’s rays are very intense.
But if this feature is just to expensive for you, there is also a roof painted in the vehicle color or a panoramic vario-roof with dark-tinted windows.
Engine
The US Market will receive two SLK models in its first year. First is the SLK350 powered by a 3,5 liter direct injected engine that delivers a total of 302 HP. The SLK350 will sprint from 0 to 60 mph in 5,4 seconds, while top speed will be limited to 155 mph and has a fuel consumption of 7.1 liters (NEDC, combined) over 100 kilometers (167 g of CO2 per kilometer). The V6 engine has been completely newly developed. Its most important hallmarks are its 3rd-generation direct injection, piezo injectors and multi-spark ignition.
The second model is a SLK250 powered by a 1,8 four-cylinder engine that delivers a total of 201 mph. This engine will be mated to a a 6-speed manual transmission and and delivers an estimated fuel economy of 27 mpg (combined). It sprints from 0 to 60 mph in 6,5 seconds, while top speed is limited to 155 mph.
Next to this two models, the European market will also get a SLK 200 BlueEFFICIENCY - the most economical roadster in its segment. It is powered by the same 1,8 liter four-cylinder engine as the SLK250, but only delivers 184 HP. When equipped with a 7G‑TRONIC PLUS it consumes just 6.1 liters of premium petrol (NEDC, combined) over 100 kilometers (that corresponds to 142 g of CO2 per kilometer). The sprint from0 to 60 mph is made in 7.0 seconds, while top speed is 149 mph.
Prices
The 2012 SLK-Class makes its U.S. showroom debut in summer 2011. On the European market orders are accepted starting 17 January 2011. prices are as follows: SLK 200 38,675 euros; SLK 250 44,256.10 euros and SLK 350 52,300.50 euros.
Competition
With all the changes made to the new SLK, models like the BMW Z4 and the Nissan 370Z Roadster are in lots of trouble. The SLK has the advantage that it will offer a four-cylinder engine right from the beginning, while the Z4 will have to wait until 2012 for that kind of offering. The Nissan 370Z Roadster, on the other hand, has the advantage of being cheaper than both of the other options.
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