Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class Mk.3

2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class

2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class interior

The latest Mercedes-Benz SLK Class' full model change is just the third generation of the blockbuster 2-seater premium sports roadster that keeps its sporty, lightweight, and compact characteristics, despite this latest SLK is now a miniature version of the exotic SLS AMG.

The exterior and interior design were heavily influenced from the SLS AMG sportscar, just how the second-generation received an SLR McLaren-like face. What's new on the SLK is the new Magic Sky Control roof. The new Magic Sky Control roof has a glass-top roof, similar to the Renault Megane Coupe-Cabriolet, that can be shaded from light to dark at the touch of the button. See something unpleasant in the sky? Just shade the Magic Sky Control roof to the darkest. However, if you want to see something beautiful at the top, try to lighten up the Magic Sky Control roof. This optional feature adds a wow factor the all-new SLK-Class.

As of press time, the all new SLK features the first three variants with new engine types. The SLK 200 BlueEFFICIENCY 6AT grade features the M271 engine that produces 184 PS of power, 270 Nm of torque, and top speed of 237 km/h. The 7G-Tronic variant of the SLK 200 BlueEFFICIENCY improved its top speed by 3km/h. The SLK 250 BlueEFFICIENCY variant improves the M271 engine with a 20 PS increase in power and an improved top speed of 243 km/h. The SLK 350 BlueEFFICIENCY is equipped with the M276 engine that has a power output of 306 PS, torque output of 370 Nm, armed with the 7G-Tronic Plus transmission, and top speed of 250 km/h. Most of the engines offered are Euro V compliant.

Other wondrous features on the new SLK include the new draught-stop system called AIRGUIDE, ECO start/stop system, available Dynamic Handling package, drowsiness detection system, PRE-SAFE, and other features that makes this new roadster reliable for the driver and passenger.

My thoughts about the SLK:
The previous second-generation SLK looks more like a baby SLR McLaren because of the F1-inspired front, but now, the latest third-generation SLK now became a baby SLS AMG with some elements from the CLS mixed. This premium sports roadster from Mercedes-Benz is now armed with the world's first Magic Sky Control roof that can be brightened or shade it just the way they want.

The pricing of the new SLK 200 BlueEFFICIENCY starts at 38,675 Euros (or about 4.45 million Philippine pesos) up to 52,301 Euros (about 6.1 million Philippine pesos) for the SLK 350 BlueEfficiency 7G-Tronic variant. Sales of the new SLK will start this late March for the European market and soon in other markets. I just hope that CATS Motors will bring this new SLK to the Philippines soon.

Photo: Mercedes-Benz