Mercedes-Benz SLK -- Model Year 2015: Fresh Air Initiative

In 1996 Mercedes-Benz redefined the roadster with the innovative vario-roof, and combined open-air driving pleasure with uncompromised comfort in poor weather. For the new model year of the SLK, Mercedes-Benz has once again combined passion with good sense to appeal to both the heart and mind.

This is impressively demonstrated by the SLK 250 d. Like its predecessor, it develops an output of 150 kW (204 hp), and thanks to its high torque of 500 Nm the two-seater accelerates from a standstill to 100 km/h in a brisk 6.6 seconds. Moreover, 0.4 of a litre less fuel per 100 kilometres now flows through the injection system of the four-cylinder power unit. Its combined average consumption (NEDC) is 4.4 litres of diesel fuel. This corresponds to CO2 emissions of 114 grams per kilometre. This makes the SLK 250 d the most environmentally friendly roadster in its performance class. In the other four-cylinder SLK models, a new engine generation with 3rd-generation direct injection and multi-spark ignition ensures sporty driving enjoyment. In the SLK 200, the four-cylinder engine generates 135 kW (184 hp) from a displacement of 1991 cc and torque of 300 Nm – this is 30 Nm more than the preceding model. In the new SLK 300, which replaces the SLK 250, the output from the same displacement increases by 30 kW versus the preceding model, to 180 kW (245 hp). At the same time torque is increased by 60 Nm to 370 Nm.

As standard Mercedes-Benz combines the SLK 200 with a new 6-speed manual transmission which excels with a high level of gearshift comfort and precise travel. The new SLK 300 and the SLK 250 d on the other hand are equipped with the new nine-speed 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission as standard. This allows very fast gear changes – especially in Manual mode – and also lower engine speeds. This has a particularly beneficial effect on efficiency and noise comfort. Optionally the SLK 200 is also available with the innovative 9G-TRONIC.

The 9G-TRONIC transmission comes with a newly designed, sporty DIRECT SELECT lever on the centre console, as well as steering wheel gearshift paddles.

All the SLK engines feature the ECO start/stop function and meet the EU6 emissions standard. This also applies to the six-cylinder engines of the SLK 350 and SLK 55 AMG, which round off the SLK family.

The extended standard equipment of the SLK includes LED daytime running lamps in a rod design. An LTE-capable exterior onboard aerial is also new in conjunction with the optionally available convenience telephony. The high transfer rates of this new, high-performance mobile radio standard allow an even better quality of reception and transmission. This also benefits the performance of the COMAND Online multimedia system with extremely fast internet access and intuitive operation.

The range of assistance and safety systems, from ATTENTION ASSIST to DISTRONIC PLUS incl. COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST PLUS, is likewise impressive. The latter system features automatic proximity control, a collision warning function including Adaptive Brake Assist and initiation of autonomous partial braking if the driver fails to react. Blind Spot Assist and Lane Keeping Assist are also optionally available.

Two new paint finishes, "selenite grey metallic" and "designo cerussite grey magno", add a breath of fresh summer air to the colour range available for the SLK.

A feature that continues to be unique to the SLK is the panoramic vario-roof with MAGIC SKY CONTROL – this glass roof is lightened or darkened at the touch of a button. This means that it provides an open-air feeling at any time, but when required gives welcome shade under a hot sun.

The classic strengths of the SLK also include its well-designed boot, which at 335 litres has easily the highest capacity in this segment, and a very sporty suspension which demands no compromises in terms of comfort. The standard suspension already ensures agility and comfort on long journeys. The optional Dynamic Handling package with adaptive damping system, Direct-Steer system, ESP^® Dynamic Cornering Assist and suspension lowered by ten millimetres all enable outstanding handling dynamics and make sure that the SLK not only excels on the handling circuit, but also when it comes to comfort.

Despite the increased performance and new technical features, the prices for the SLK have only increased slightly.

*NEDC, combined.
** Prices in Germany inclusive of 19% VAT