/ 26 January 2004

SLK spells sleek

Mercedes-Benz has unveiled its new SLK-Class two seaters. More attractive, more powerful and with more of a sports car feel than its predecessor, the new SLK offers a choice of three new engines with output extending from 120 kW to 265 kW. This includes – for the first time in this vehicle class – an eight-cylinder supplied by Mercedes-AMG. The roadster converts to a coupe in just 22 seconds, thanks to the latest version vario-roof.

As a global first, Mercedes-Benz is offering the AIRSCARF neck-level heating system. This delivers a flow of warm air from the headrests at the touch of a button, thereby enabling SLK occupants to keep the roof down even when there is a chill in the air. Automatic climate control, bi-xenon headlamps with cornering light, COMAND and the unique 7G-TRONIC 7-speed automatic transmission add to the technological innovations which can now be supplied as options to the SLK-Class for the first time.

The factory claims that the second generation SLK-Class places even greater emphasis on sports performance, thanks to more powerful engines, redesigned suspension, more direct steering feel and a six-speed manual transmission.

The body size has grown by 72 mm in length and 65 mm in width, rewarding driver and passenger with more space and higher standards of comfort than the previous model.

Pricing has not yet been determined, but we can guess it’ll cost more than most of us can afford.