Interior with Style and Pure Good Looks

Despite the most compact dimensions in its class, the 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK has generous interior dimensions. To achieve this, the designers have developed interior appointments that offer the driver and passenger the highest degree of quality and pure precision. The interior is characterized by stylish sportiness and genuine high-quality materials which have been processed with perfect precision and skilled craftsmanship. Standard brushed aluminum trim covers the center console; wood trim can be ordered as an option in high-gloss dark brown walnut. Four round, metallic air outlets integrated in the dashboard emphasize that this model truly belongs to the Mercedes-Benz sports car family, their shape being a nod to those in the SLS.

The SLK's generous round dials are astride a display for the onboard computer. The color display for the communications and entertainment functions is housed in the center of the dashboard, and is easily read by both the driver and passenger.

Other high-quality pieces of equipment include a multifunction sports steering wheel with a flattened bottom section and a thick leather crown, plus available sun-reflecting leather that noticeably reduces seat temperature, ambient lighting

Magic Sky Control

For the first time Mercedes-Benz is offering a choice of three variants of the lightweight-construction vario-roof for the new SLK: in just a few seconds this feature transforms the roadster into a coupe with a "fixed" roof at the touch of a button - and vice versa:

• The standard version is a roof painted in the vehicle color.
• Optionally available is a panorama vario-roof with dark-tinted glass.
• The third option is a world premiere - the panorama vario-roof with Magic Sky Control.

This Magic Sky Control glass roof switches to light or dark at the press of a button. In light mode it is virtually transparent, offering an open-air experience even in cold weather. In its dark state the roof provides welcome shade and prevents the interior from heating up from the sun's rays. In other words: a comfortable atmosphere at the touch of a button.

Innovative AIRGUIDE Wind-Stop System

A comfortable alternative to the conventional wind-stop is a new pivoting wind-stop for the 2012 SLK, invented by Mercedes-Benz aerodynamics engineers. It consists of pivoting transparent plastic layers attached to the back of the roll bars. The driver or passenger can swing them to the center of the vehicle in an instant, thus taming turbulent air flow.

Efficient Engines

There will be two models of the 2012 SLK available in its first year, both powered by direct-injection engines. The completely redesigned V6 engine in the SLK350 develops 302 hp from its 3498 cubic-centimeter displacement, using this power to accelerate in 5.4 (est.) seconds from 0 to 60 mph (top speed 155 mph).

Later on in the model year, the SLK250 goes on-sale with a four-cylinder engine developing 201 hp from a displacement of 1796 cubic centimeters. The SLK250 is equipped as standard with a 6-speed manual transmission and consumes an estimated 27 mpg (combined). From a standstill it reaches 60 mph in 6.5 seconds, and it has a top speed of 155 mph.

Suspension and Chassis

A sports suspension with firmer springs and dampers ensures a sporty driving experience. Additionally the Direct-Steer system offers more handling and agility while also reducing the amount of physical effort required when parking.

During spirited driving, the Torque Vectoring Brakes produce a defined rotational movement about the vertical axis of the vehicle in fractions of a second through selective brake actuation at the rear inside wheel. This results in the SLK stabilizing without any compromises, and it steers into a bend precisely and under full control.

High Level of Safety

The new SLK's bodyshell has been further refined, with the hood and fenders now made of aluminum.

The 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK also sets new benchmarks in terms of safety. The third generation of this icon 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 fitted as standard equipment. Available through special order is DISTRONIC PLUS with PRE-SAFE¨ Brake, which can autonomously apply the brakes in the event of an impending safety requirements.

Optionally available is the Lighting Package that not only provides headlamp cleaning but cornering and active light functions.

The 2012 SLK-Class makes its U.S. showroom debut in summer 2011.

Mercedes-Benz SLK350: Photo Gallery, Review (1/2) and Specifications