| Pros |
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| The SLK Class lacks in two things roadsters usually have in abundance: wind noise and poor rear visibility. This can be credited to the well-designed power-retractable hardtop, which works flawlessly. A perk of this luxury drop-top are the high-tech head restraints, which blow warm air on the driver's and passenger's necks to keep them warm even when the roof is open. Handling is sporty and quick, and the interior is as comfy as the ride. The SLK300 and SLK350 also achieve a respectable 26 mpg on the highway-impressive for a sporty convertible. |
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| Model Highlights |
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| The SLK300 has a 3.0L V6 under its long, sloped hood, while the SLK350 has a 3.5-liter V6. As one might surmise, the extra half-liter in an otherwise identical car makes a big difference. The 228-hp SLK300 with a 6-speed manual can reach 60 mph from a standstill in 6.1 seconds, while the 300-hp SLK350 with a 7-speed automatic does the same feat in only 5.4 seconds.
All SLKs have anti-lock brakes, electronic brake assist, traction control and the electronic stability program, which measures steering wheel angle and direction, yaw rate, wheel speed and lateral acceleration. The automatic transmission, standard on the SLK350 and optional on the SLK300, will adapt to the driver's style to deliver the most fitting performance level. Front and side airbags are standard, plus side guard door beams and integrated rollover protection.
Mercedes packed a lot of features into the small roadster package, not least of which is the self-stowing electronically operated hard top, which tucks into the trunk. Power-operated everything comes standard, as do a leather steering wheel, leather seats, dual-zone climate controls and a 9-speaker stereo system. Mercedes even managed to find room to squeeze in two cup holders. The vehicle telematics system includes emergency notification in the event of an accident, roadside assistance and remote door unlocking. This service is free for the first 12 months of SLK ownership.
Several packages are available, including the Premium Package, which features power seats and steering column with memory, rain-sensing wipers and premium interior lighting. The Sport Package adds a sport suspension, paddle shifters and 18-inch AMG wheels, while a Multimedia Package includes hard-drive navigation, an in-dash 6-disc CD/DVD changer, SIRIUS satellite radio and a 6.5-inch LCD display. |
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| Model News |
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| The Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class convertible is largely unchanged for 2011-- although the high-performance SLK55 AMG has been put on hold for the model year, it is scheduled to return for 2010 with mechanical updates. |
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| Value Writeup |
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| Sexy roadster styling; sporty performance; lots of safety features in a convertible |
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