2012 Mercedes SLK
Mercedes finally revealed the all-new version of the SLK Class ahead of its public debut at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show.
The new model features a totally revamped design inside and out. On the outside the new SLK is clearly inspired by the big daddy SLS supercar but also uses some of new CLS’ cues. The end result however is not just as sweet as the current model.
The interior has got in the line with other new Mercedes models, it’s pretty much the same to be honest, but it’s a very fine design nevertheless. It also gets all the usual toys and gizmos you’d expect from sport luxury car.
One very nice feature of this new SLK is the panoramic vario-roof with Magic Sky Control, which switches to light or dark at the touch of a button. The car also get a range of new 4- and 6-cylinder engines featuring the standard-specification ECO start/stop function.
There will initially be three models of the SLK available at its market launch, all of them powered by new engines with direct injection. The four-cylinder engines in the SLK 200 BlueEFFICIENCY and SLK 250 BlueEFFICIENCY develop 184 hp and 204 hp respectively from a displacement of 1796 cubic centimetres. The SLK 200 BlueEFFICIENCY is the most economical roadster in its segment.
The V6 engine in the SLK 350 BlueEFFICIENCY draws 306 hp from its 3498 cubic-centimetre displacement, using this power to accelerate in 5.6 seconds from 0 to 62 mph (top speed 155 mph). All models are available as standard with the 7G-Tronic Plus automatic transmission.
The new Mercedes-Benz SLK also sets new benchmarks in terms of safety. The third generation of the powerful trend-setter will make use of a whole host of the latest assistance systems to support the driver, including the drowsiness detection system ATTENTION ASSIST, developed by Mercedes-Benz and the anticipatory occupant protection system Pre-Safe® , which is unique in the world, both fitted as standard; plus the optional Pre-Safe® Brake, which can apply the brakes autonomously in the event of an impending rear-end collision.
