Merc SLK – the same, but different
WE’VE become used to carmakers putting new plastics and fancier rims on an existing model and calling it an upgrade, so it comes as something of a wake-up call to find that the 2015 Mercedes- Benz SLK roadsters look almost exactly the same as the previous version – most of the changes are under the bonnet.
All the four-cylinder variants get a new development of Stuttgart’s proven 1991cc turbopetrol, with third-generation direct fuel-injection and multi-spark ignition.
The base SLK 200 is now rated for 135kW and 300Nm – that’s 30Nm more than last year’s – while the SLK 250 gives way to the SLK 300, still with the twolitre mill, but now quoted at 180kW (up from 150) and 370Nm, up 60Nm.
The 2015 comes as standard with a new six-speed manual ‘box that’s been designed for crisper, more accurate shifting, while the 300 gets the new nine-speed 9G-Tronic auto transmission, with a new direct select lever on the centre console, as well as paddle shift on the steering wheel.
These provide very fast shifts and longer final gearing – which improves both fuel-efficiency and noise comfort. The 9G self-shifter is also available to order in the SLK 200.
Every SLK now comes with idle stop, including the 350 V6 and the SLK 55 AMG V8.
One of the few external tweaks is the nowstandard inclusion of LED daytime running lamps in a rod design, and a new LTE-capable exterior aerial (together with optional convenience telephony) that allows superb radio and voice quality thanks to high transfer rates – and also delivers faster internet access and more intuitive operation through the Comand controller.
For the rest, it’s the mixture as before, with automatic proximity control, a collision warning function that included adaptive brake assist and autonomous partial braking if the driver doesn’t wake up in time.
Merc is also still the only brand on the market that uses arc-welding helmet technology to lighten or darken the glass roof at the touch of a button - and the SLK gets this tech.
Blind spot assist and lane-departure warning are also optionally available, as is a dynamic handling package that includes adaptive damping, dynamic cornering assist, and a 10mm lowering kit. PRICES SLK 200 - R648 778 SLK 300 - R722 462 SLK 350 - R856 022 SLK 55 AMG - R1 113 595 Prices include PremiumDrive six-year/100 000km maintenance plan