2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK Class Price, Review, Specs, what car reviews, The Mercedes-Benz SLK is a compact two-seat roadster introduced by the luxury automaker back in 1997 and hailed as one of the first modern retractable hard-top convertibles. Preceding other hard-top convertibles like the Lexus SC, Chrysler Sebring and even Mercedes’ own SL, the SLK combined sporty good looks with a rear-wheel drive layout and slotted into the market as the automaker’s entry-level convertible.
The Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class has long been known. In the past that wouldn’t necessarily be a good thing, but the completely redesigned 2012 SLK re-enters the fray with bold new styling, a fuel-efficient new base engine and most importantly, a lot more fun behind the wheel.
The SLK will be offered with a pair of engine choices. At the top of the heap is a 304-horsepower 3.5-liter V6 in the SLK350 that helps the roadster scoot to 60 mph in just 5.4 seconds with its standard automatic transmission. The German automaker says that this combination is capable of a 23 mpg combined fuel consumption figure.
Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options
The 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class is a two-seat convertible with a retractable hardtop roof. There are SLK250 and SLK350 trim levels, which are primarily differentiated by engine.
Standard equipment on the SLK350 gets 18-inch wheels and sun-reflective leather upholstery, automatic wipers, LED running lights, auto-dimming rearview and driver mirrors, cruise control, automatic climate control, eight-way power front seats and four-way lumbar adjustment, driver memory functions, a power tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, vinyl upholstery, Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity, and an eight-speaker sound system with a CD player, HD radio and a USB audio jack.
Powertrains and Performance
The 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK350 gets a 3.5-liter V6 that produces 302 hp and 273 lb-ft of torque. The seven-speed auto is standard. In performance testing, it went from zero to 60 mph in 5.6 seconds — a few tenths slower than the Z4 sDrive35i. EPA-estimated fuel economy is 20 mpg city/29 mpg highway and 23 mpg combined.
Safety
Every Mercedes SLK comes standard with antilock brakes, traction and stability control, knee airbags and side airbags that cover the abdomen and head. Also standard are rollbars and the Attention Assist system, which monitors the driver for signs of inattention or drowsiness. The optional PreSafe system anticipates an imminent crash and automatically takes measures to better secure occupants.
Interior Design and Special Features
As the new SLK’s interior design closely mimics that of the Mercedes SLS, owners of the range-topping supercar may be a little miffed that their car essentially shares the same cabin with Benz’s cheapest sports car. Too bad for them, but SLK owners will enjoy the same restrained dash styling and top-notch materials and construction. Controls are virtually identical to those found throughout the Mercedes lineup, meaning you’re not missing out on functionality or features just because you’ve bought a two-seater.
Driving Impressions
The SLK has always been more about touring than outright sport, but thanks to its new suspension tuning and well-sorted steering, this is the best-handling SLK to date and delivers quite a few grins around the corners. Of course, the pinnacle of classic, razor-sharp roadster handling remains the Porsche Boxster, but falling short of that standard isn’t something to be ashamed of.
2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK Specs :
Engines & Power
Standard Engine : 3.5L 302 hp V6
Horsepower : 302 @ 6500 RPM
Torque (lb-ft) : 273 @ 3500 RPM
Transmissions
7-Speed Automatic Overdrive : Std.
Fuel Economy
City (mpg) : 20
Highway (mpg) : 29
Comfort & Convenience
Sunroof : N/A
Air Conditioning : Std.
Power Windows : Std.
Power Door Locks : Std.
Leather Seats : Std.
Power Seats : Std.
Max. Seating : 2
Number of Doors : 2
Entertainment
Cassette Player : N/A
CD Player : Std.
Nav. System : Opt.
Safety
Airbags : Driver Passenger Side
ABS Brakes : Std.
Traction Control : Std.
Stability Control : Std.
2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK Price :
Base Retail Price (MSRP) : $54,800
Base Invoice Price : $50,964
Destination Charge : $875