Where the previous SLK had us imagining it as a mini-SLR, the latest generation of Mercedes-Benz’s SLK baby roadster has been imbued with a generous dose of stupefying SLS AMG styling.
Merc’s flagship sports car, the SLS AMG, is a car that truly pulls at the heartstrings, inviting all of your senses along for the ride (or blast, as it may be). It’s also terrifyingly beautiful, no less for those flashy gullwing doors. The third-generation SLK, however, continues with the same tried-and-tested rear-wheel drive, hard-top formula as the daddy SL – just in a more compact package – while retaining the classic roadster's long nose, two seats and short rear overhang. But don’t tell the SLK it’s not a mini-SLS…
It’s oversized grille, like the SLS AMG, channels the original 1950'ss SL, although this almost feminine feature is given a burst of testosterone with the SLK’s bulbous wheel arches, bonnet air vents, trapezoidal chromed tail pipes and stylised diode tail lights. The overall look, though, is slightly less aggro, definitely more sophisticated.
Retro-themed round air vents for the interior are also similar to those seen in the SLS, while the luxury feeling is further conveyed through the leather-clad cabin cabin and those comfortable leather seats. The feeling is classic and elegant.
NEW SIX-CYLINDERI had the run of a range-topping (for now) SLK 350 BlueEfficiency with a couple of extras including the striking AMG package (R32 000) and the Dynamic Handling package (R12 500) available only on the V6-powered model.
The new 3.5-litre non-turbo V6 puts out a charming 225kW/370Nm and, operating through a seven-speed auto transmission, this is a potent combination. That this powertrain is riding on a choppy suspension did take the edge off things but chances are you won’t be going at the limit all the time. The SLK is not afraid to show its mettle but it did show a preference for smoother, unblemished roads.
With the more rigid AMG sports suspension on a particularly choppy section of road I was able to imagine having a powerplate workout at gym. Very nice of Merc to have incorporated a workout function on the SLK but most will probably find it cheaper to get a gym membership (or buy a home vibro machine).
In Merc’s defence, the AMG package does include a lower sports suspension with stiffer springs and gorgeous 18” five-spoked alloys that could have accounted for some of the mild discomfort.
ALL THOSE EXTRASThe dynamic handling package comes with continuously adjusting dampers and a torque vectoring system that is particularly useful when cornering keenly because it engages individual brakes to aid steering and safely see you through the corners.
The SLK’s steering is a touch too light at speed, even with the dynamic handling package’s centre console button punched to S(port), which is intended to firm up the steering as well as enable sharper throttle responses and tighter dampers, and "direct steer" engaged to adjust the power steering to the vehicle's speed. The upside is that the SLK is deliciously manoeuvrable at low speed. On a smooth road, however, the SLK felt thoroughly unshakable.
There are paddle on the steering wheel to manipulate gear changes in manual mode but, since the changes are languid, it’s probably easy and less frustrating to leave the automatic to do its own thing.
The level of refinement within the cabin is grand (really, the only sound worth hearing is that resonant six-cylinder) and the ride with the roof down is rather comfortable with almost indiscernible scuttle shake through the seat squab.
Finding a lower seating position via the door-panel controls was easy although, as a shorter driver, I was unable to adjust the passenger-side wing mirror completely to my satisfaction. Although the cabin’s display layout is typically Mercedes-Benz and the updated Comand system is now in place, some of the controls and displays are just a little too small and pernickety. They’re best operated when stationary or via the comprehensive controls on the steering wheel.
The standard luxury fare is evident on the SLK although all-weather South Africans are catered for by standard Airscarf, Merc’s nifty little neck warmer that helps keep you toasty even when the temperature takes a dive. Wind buffeting is noticeable, but manageable; just keep the windows up and you’ll be fine.
ALL-WEATHER FRIENDOther little practicalities include the cute little ruffled pocket behind the seats which is perfect for stowing soft items such as a hat and the fairly roomy boot space, even with the roof stowed. Storage space in the cabin is generous with a centre storage cubby and space behind the seats.
Merc’s meaty, flat-bottomed three-spoke steering wheel, tyre-pressure monitoring, crash responsive Neck-Pro head restraints, sports seats and striking LED daytime running lights are just some of the standard equipment.
So, if you’re used to hearing your SLK being referred to as the SLGay, take heart. This SLK feels well-built and it’s an easy (and forgivable) car to drive. Blue Efficiency measures mean this V6 with direct fuel injection is more efficient and emits less CO2 into the atmosphere than before, too.
It’s also a lot less intimidating to drive than BMW’s Z4 and its high level of comfort certainly highlights its potential as a daily driver that doubles as a fun weekend car, but those in need of a true roadster kick will probably cast their eyes towards a certain car built in Zuffenhausen.
