Next-Generation SLK to Feature V8 Engine for First Time
The only thing bad about having created a car as attractive as the outgoing Mercedes-Benz SLK, is improving on the design with the following generation.
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| The new Mercedes-Benz SLK is definitely anything but subtle, oozing bold, aggressive attitude. (Photo: Mercedes-Benz Canada) |
Rather than simply massaging the current design Mercedes has developed a completely new SLK, with a bold, aggressive attitude that looks nothing like anything else currently on the road.
Inspiration for the design came from the automaker's McLaren-Mercedes Formula 1 challenger, especially apparent in the single-seater style protruding nose and airfoil-like lower fascia.
Mercedes has reportedly improved its "vario-roof" retractable hardtop, which now lowers in 22 seconds.
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| The first V8 to ever be offered in the SLK-Class will be offered in this updated roadster. (Photo: Mercedes-Benz Canada) |
From a driving perspective the new car features a completely revised chassis, which along with the steering system and manual gearbox give the SLK a more driver-oriented dynamic.
The same sporting attitude can be found under the hood, with the first V8 to ever be offered in the SLK-Class. A supercharged 4-cylinder and upgraded V6
Three different engines are offered, including the first V8 in the SLK. The base engine will once again be a supercharged inline 4-cylinder while an all new 3.5-L V6 will debut in the new roadster.