The SLK from Mercedes-Benz is being given a silky update for the 2009 model year. The three power plants - the 3.0-litre V6, 3.5-litre V6, and 5.5-litre AMG-built V8 - will still propel the 1.5-ton hardtop convertible; however, the mid-grade engine seen in the SLK 350 has been given a major reworking.
This engine, which spins up to 7,200 rpm, has had its compression ratio raised, and both the valvetrain and intake manifold improved. Horsepower is up 32 to 300 at 6,500 rpm, while torque now peaks at 4,900 rpm with 265 lb-ft. If that performance is not enough, the naturally aspirated 2009 SLK 55 AMG will still utilize 355 horsepower and 376 lb-ft of torque to reach 100 km/h in less than five seconds before halting on (six-piston) 13-inch front, and (four-piston) 11.4-inch rear, rotors.
The SLK 280 will be redesignated as the SLK 300. Although this model will still muster up 228 horsepower, it shall remain attractive to enthusiasts as one of the few Mercedes-Benz models that can be had with the involving six-speed manual gearbox. A seven-speed automatic transmission will be optional on the SLK 300 and standard on the SLK 350 and SLK 55 AMG.
Drivers can command the automatic transmission via steering wheel paddles, and the unit seen in the AMG has been specifically tuned for more performance. Though the SLK 300 is touted as the 'greener' selection, efficient cruising can even be had on the AMG model, thanks to the gearing ratios; however, some may say that it is too eager to downshift.
The 2009 SLK also feels more planted and agile due to renovated speed-sensitive steering that uses a new rack, which mechanically varies steering gear ratios in lieu of actuators and sensors previously employed. Past five degrees of steering input, the new ratio rapidly increases, reducing lock-to-lock by 25 percent.
Convenience inside has been further improved via updated audio and telematics, with Bluetooth connectivity as standard. Voice control will also be available, but the party feature shall remain the hardtop, which collapses into part of the trunk in 22 seconds. Passengers can then be pampered by the optional Airscarf system, which wafts warm air onto their necks through the head restraints.
Positioned just behind the head restraints are two built-in roll bars. There is also an array of airbags, including knee bags and side bags that also protect the head. Along with the passive safety are many preventative aids including electronic stability program, traction control, brake assist, and, of course, taught handling.
This two-seater, which already readily turns heads thanks to the McLaren SLR-styled nose, has had its exterior further sharpened with noticeable treatments front and rear. The new front bumper stands out particularly well in lighter colours, but the diffuser out back is just for show.
Originally introduced in 1998, the SLK-class was redesigned in 2005 to exude a much stronger, unisex style. North Americans can get their hands on the revitalized 2009 SLK in April, 2008.
photo:Mercedes-Benz
This engine, which spins up to 7,200 rpm, has had its compression ratio raised, and both the valvetrain and intake manifold improved. Horsepower is up 32 to 300 at 6,500 rpm, while torque now peaks at 4,900 rpm with 265 lb-ft. If that performance is not enough, the naturally aspirated 2009 SLK 55 AMG will still utilize 355 horsepower and 376 lb-ft of torque to reach 100 km/h in less than five seconds before halting on (six-piston) 13-inch front, and (four-piston) 11.4-inch rear, rotors.
 |
The SLK 280 will be redesignated as the SLK 300. Although this model will still muster up 228 horsepower, it shall remain attractive to enthusiasts as one of the few Mercedes-Benz models that can be had with the involving six-speed manual gearbox. A seven-speed automatic transmission will be optional on the SLK 300 and standard on the SLK 350 and SLK 55 AMG.
Drivers can command the automatic transmission via steering wheel paddles, and the unit seen in the AMG has been specifically tuned for more performance. Though the SLK 300 is touted as the 'greener' selection, efficient cruising can even be had on the AMG model, thanks to the gearing ratios; however, some may say that it is too eager to downshift.
The 2009 SLK also feels more planted and agile due to renovated speed-sensitive steering that uses a new rack, which mechanically varies steering gear ratios in lieu of actuators and sensors previously employed. Past five degrees of steering input, the new ratio rapidly increases, reducing lock-to-lock by 25 percent.
Convenience inside has been further improved via updated audio and telematics, with Bluetooth connectivity as standard. Voice control will also be available, but the party feature shall remain the hardtop, which collapses into part of the trunk in 22 seconds. Passengers can then be pampered by the optional Airscarf system, which wafts warm air onto their necks through the head restraints.
Positioned just behind the head restraints are two built-in roll bars. There is also an array of airbags, including knee bags and side bags that also protect the head. Along with the passive safety are many preventative aids including electronic stability program, traction control, brake assist, and, of course, taught handling.
This two-seater, which already readily turns heads thanks to the McLaren SLR-styled nose, has had its exterior further sharpened with noticeable treatments front and rear. The new front bumper stands out particularly well in lighter colours, but the diffuser out back is just for show.
Originally introduced in 1998, the SLK-class was redesigned in 2005 to exude a much stronger, unisex style. North Americans can get their hands on the revitalized 2009 SLK in April, 2008.
 |
photo:Mercedes-Benz
Article Gallery