Mercedes Benz SLK gets 2015 upgrade

For the new model year of the SLK, Mercedes-Benz has once again combined passion with good sense to appeal to both the heart and mind.

This is impressively demonstrated by the four-cylinder SLK models, a new engine with 3rd-generation direct injection and multi-spark ignition ensuring sporty driving enjoyment. In the SLK 200, the four-cylinder engine generates 135kW from a displacement of 1991cc and torque of 300Nm – 30Nm more than the preceding model.

The new SLK 300 replaces the SLK 250. The output from the same displacement increases by 30kW, versus the preceding model, to 180kW. At the same time torque is increased by 60Nm to 370Nm.

As standard, Mercedes-Benz combines the SLK 200 with a new six-speed manual transmission which excels with a high level of gearshift comfort and precise travel. The new SLK 300 is equipped with the new nine-speed 9G-Tronic automatic transmission as standard.

This allows very fast gear changes – especially in Manual Mode – and also lower engine speeds. This has a particularly beneficial effect on efficiency and noise comfort. Optionally, the SLK 200 is also available with the innovative 9G-Tronic.

The new Mercedes Benz. Picture: Supplied.

The 9G-Tronic transmission comes with a newly designed, sporty Direct Select lever on the centre console, as well as steering wheel gearshift paddles.

All the SLK engines feature the ECO start/stop function and meet stringent emission standards. This also applies to the six-cylinder engines of the SLK 350 and SLK 55 AMG, which round off the SLK family.

The extended standard equipment of the SLK includes LED daytime running lamps in a rod design. An LTE-capable exterior onboard aerial is also new, in conjunction with the optionally available convenience telephony. The high transfer rates of this new, high-performance mobile radio standard allow even better reception and transmission quality. This also benefits the performance of the Comand Online multimedia system with extremely fast internet access and intuitive operation.

The range of assistance and safety systems, from Attention Assist to Distronic Plus, including Collision Prevention Assist Plus, is likewise impressive. The latter system features automatic proximity control, a collision warning function with Adaptive Brake Assist, and initiation of autonomous partial braking if the driver fails to react.

A feature still unique to the SLK is the panoramic vario-roof with Magic Sky Control – this glass roof is lightened or darkened at the touch of a button.

The classic strengths of the SLK also include its well-designed boot, which at 335 litres has easily the highest capacity in this segment, and a very sporty suspension. The optional Dynamic Handling package with adaptive damping system, Direct-Steer system, ESP Dynamic Cornering Assist and suspension lowered by 10mm all enable outstanding handling dynamics.

Despite the increased performance and new technical features, the prices for the SLK have only increased slightly and the new model year SLK is now available to order.