| Facelifted Model | Mercedes-Benz SLK |
Mercedes has given its two-seater roadster a mild facelift for 2008, but it's not the exterior that is of most interest to us. Two of the four powerplants available in the new SLK have been modified for greater power and torque whilst three boast lowered emissions output.
Firstly though, the new styling features seek to add that little extra aggression to proceedings with larger air intakes at each corner of the front bumper and a re-sculpted centre piece. The rear bumper is now styled with diffuser-like ridges neatly housing two new-shaped exhaust pipes, whilst Mercedes has taken a leaf out of AMG's catalogue and darkened the rear lights. Side mirrors have been enlarged and incorporate new LED indicator lighting. The German manufacturer will also offer an all-new selection of alloy wheels for the 2008 SLK to further differentiate itself from older models.
Despite the light touch up, it's under the skin that has seen the most effort applied. Mercedes has reworked the V6 engine available in the SLK 350 to rev beyond its previously standard 6,800rpm (to 7,200rpm) for a brief period - depending on 'oil temperature and other engine parameters'. A higher compression ratio, extensively modified valve train and new intake manifold help increase power in the SLK 350 by 33bhp to an impressive 305bhp at 6,500rpm with 265lb.ft of torque at 4,900rpm.
Using Mercedes Benz's uprated 7G paddle-shift transmission - now 10 percent quicker between cogs - the V6 in the 350 uses around 6mpg less than its predecessor, racking up 30.7mpg with CO2 levels down by as much as 28g/km - now at 227g/km with a manual transmission or 219g/km with the 7G auto.
The four-cylinder supercharged unit available in the SLK 200 Kompressor has seen its power upped by 21bhp to 184bhp with torque also increased to 184lb.ft. Following suit, despite gains in performance, fuel economy and emissions have been lowered. The range-topping 5.4-litre V8 in the AMG-powered SLK remains unchanged and so still develops 360bhp and 376lb.ft of torque.
In the cabin of the new SLK, customers will be treated to a new three-spoke steering wheel complete with multi-function buttons and a revised centre console instrument cluster. Available as an optional extra on the normal SLK, or as standard on the 55 AMG, will be a new variable servo assisted 'Direct-Steer System', which changes the steering ratio from 15.8:1 to 11.5:1 for a more responsive feel just off the centre position as well as reducing lock-to-lock turning by 25 percent. Mercedes hopes the system will enhance the SLK's reputation as a driver's car and pull customers away from the likes of Porsche and BMW.
The latest SLK will be further offered with an iPod docking station in the glove box to test out the new NTG 2.5 audio system along with Mercedes' Linguatronic voice-operated control system as an extra. A new black/gullwing red combination will be newly available on all models.
Pricing details will be revealed closer to the SLK's release in April.
Kyle Molyneux - 7 Jan 2008
