The Mercedes-Benz SLK now boasts powerful new engines
and transmissions, and excels with exemplary efficiency.
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
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 from a displacement of 1991 cc and torque
of 300 Nm – this is 30 Nm more than the preceding model.
The new SLK 300 replaces the SLK 250. The output from the
same displacement increases by 30 kW, versus the preceding
model, to 180 kW. 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 is 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 meets stringent
emission standards. 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.
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.
The new model year SLK is now available to order
at your Sandown Mercedes-Benz dealership!
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