7 paddle-shifted gears
The 7-speed automatic can be operated in a 'comfort' mode which favors smoother operation, as well as a sport mode which dials responsiveness and shift speed up a few notches. There's a full manual-mode, too.
Shifting speed and responsiveness therein aren't as quick and tidy as those offered by a dual-clutch transmission, or even some comparable automatics. The throttle eases back but doesn't fully cut during upshifts, and gearing down doesn't generate the full-out F1 sounding throttle blips some will expect of a paddle-shift gearbox.
The SLK rev-matches, though somewhat slowly and with a focus on smoothness rather than speed. It's all a good match for the buttery character of the engine, though stick with the six-speed manual if possible.
The ultimate roadster interior?
Many a roadster can deny owners graceful entry and exit, though the SLK invites occupants to effortlessly plop into its low seating position with minimal drama. The steering wheel lifts out of the way automatically, and once settled, there's adequate hip, leg and shoulder room.
Headroom is notably good with the top up, and wind turbulence levels are notably good when it's down. The SLK fits like a glove, but thankfully, not a tight one.
There's as much storage on board as you could ask for from a two-seater, with covered compartments in the centre, a change drawer, and door pouches. The trunk could do with a touch more storage, though it's adequate if packaged carefully.
A pair of cupholders springs out form above the navigation screen too, though their placement calls to mind dreadful images of accidental spills into the navigation and entertainment display.
Free of spills, this display is especially slick, though full comprehension of all controls comes only after spending some quality time with the owner's manual.
Seats feature heaters and an 'Air Scarf' system that pumps hot air onto the neck and back, thus helping extend SLK's useful top-down driving season well into the fall. Seating is comfortable, though a touch more bolstering wouldn't hurt.
The 7-speed automatic can be operated in a 'comfort' mode which favors smoother operation, as well as a sport mode which dials responsiveness and shift speed up a few notches. There's a full manual-mode, too.
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| The 7-speed automatic can be operated in a 'comfort' mode as well as a 'sport' mode. |
Shifting speed and responsiveness therein aren't as quick and tidy as those offered by a dual-clutch transmission, or even some comparable automatics. The throttle eases back but doesn't fully cut during upshifts, and gearing down doesn't generate the full-out F1 sounding throttle blips some will expect of a paddle-shift gearbox.
The SLK rev-matches, though somewhat slowly and with a focus on smoothness rather than speed. It's all a good match for the buttery character of the engine, though stick with the six-speed manual if possible.
The ultimate roadster interior?
Many a roadster can deny owners graceful entry and exit, though the SLK invites occupants to effortlessly plop into its low seating position with minimal drama. The steering wheel lifts out of the way automatically, and once settled, there's adequate hip, leg and shoulder room.
Headroom is notably good with the top up, and wind turbulence levels are notably good when it's down. The SLK fits like a glove, but thankfully, not a tight one.
There's as much storage on board as you could ask for from a two-seater, with covered compartments in the centre, a change drawer, and door pouches. The trunk could do with a touch more storage, though it's adequate if packaged carefully.
A pair of cupholders springs out form above the navigation screen too, though their placement calls to mind dreadful images of accidental spills into the navigation and entertainment display.
Free of spills, this display is especially slick, though full comprehension of all controls comes only after spending some quality time with the owner's manual.
Seats feature heaters and an 'Air Scarf' system that pumps hot air onto the neck and back, thus helping extend SLK's useful top-down driving season well into the fall. Seating is comfortable, though a touch more bolstering wouldn't hurt.
 |
| The trunk could do with a touch more storage, though it's adequate if packaged carefully. |