In the ten years since it was first introduced, the Mercedes-Benz SLK has seen constant refinement. Now into its fourth year of the current generation and with today’s lifestyle, is it still a relevant ride?

What is it?

The SLK 350 is a 300-horsepower hardtop-convertible roadster that is inspired by the world of Formula 1, and looks as though it possesses DNA derived from the Mercedes-McLaren SLR supercar. In this version, looks would be the operative word, but the SLK is not all-show-and-no-go.

What’s It Up Against?

M-B has slotted the SLK 350 against such drop-topped examples as the Audi TT, the BMW Z4, Chrysler’s soon-to-be retired Crossfire, which actually contains parts and technology from the previous generation of SLK, the Porsche Boxster, and finally the Volkswagen Eos, and Volvo C70. With the exceptions of the last two cars, all others utilize traditional convertible roofs.

Any Breakthroughs?

First and foremost would be the inclusion of the Mercedes Direct-Steer System, which is an offshoot of the previous speed-sensitive power steering unit in the 2008 model. A totally mechanical unit, it transmits fine or minor adjustments and movements on the part of the driver. During aggressive lane changes and rapid movements with more than five-degrees of steering input a quicker response is derived.

How Does It Look?

Like a Mini-Me version of the SL coupe/roadster. A face-lifted front end leads things off, with a splitter reminiscent of the SLR’s nosecone. New wings flank the M-B tri-pointed star in the grille, along with angular cuts under the bumper for a look that reminds one of the front wings on Lewis Hamilton’s F1 car. These in turn, lead the eyes back along sculpted sides to the short overhang rear bustle of the SLK.

Along the way, new mirrors with revised directional indicators, and a pair of tinted taillights offer visual distinction to the body. And that’s just with the hardtop convertible roof stowed in the trunk. By the way, cargo space in the trunk is 10 cubic feet with the roof up, and 6.5 cubic feet with it stowed.

Push the button located to the right of the E-brake, and count to 23. By 22, the roof will have returned to its upright and locked position in the all-weather mode. Unfortunately the blindspots that come with the B-pillar in place also return. Incidentally, it is at this point the SLK looks like a squished SL.
And Inside?

An amalgam of old world craftsmanship coupled with high tech touches resides in the cockpit of the SLK. Newly aluminum-adorned speedo- and tachometers reside in front of the driver. Beautiful burled walnut trim and butterscotch tan leather surrounds the doors and dash to create a perimeter that, at least visually, holds you in place. The accents continue with the same burled walnut highlighting the shift knob, brake handle and door grabs.

Space is at a premium throughout the SLK but that is the nature of the beast in the world of personal-sized sports cruisers. Open the dashboard to find a smallish-sized glove box, which also contains an optional connectivity kit that enables iPod control on the head unit of the NTG Generation 2.5 audio system. An optional harman/kardon Logic 7 audio system is also available. A second storage cubby rests at the rear of the cockpit above the center console.

The leather seats are extremely supportive. Equipped with M-B’s Air Scarf neck heaters, we had no need to try them in July in South Florida, but after extended drive time through the mountains in Palms Springs, California, we can attest to the fact that “topless” driving is fun even with temperatures hovering in the high 30-degree range.

But Does It Go?

A true driver’s car, the SLK 350 is the mid-level version of the SLK range (SLK 300 below, and SLK 55 AMG above.) The 350’s engine has received a poke in the power side with an extra 32-horses over the engine it replaces, bringing output to an even 300-hp. The red and black cladded V6 sports engine also gains seven lb-ft of torque for a total of 265 lb-ft at 4,900 rpm. The SLK 350 has a curb weight of 3318 lbs.

M-B engineers beefed up the 3.5-liter V6 with a modified valve train and new intake manifold, and along the way built in a more aggressive exhaust note. Power gets to the 17-inch rear wheels by way of a 7GTRONIC seven-speed automatic transmission with Touch-Shift manual shift controls, which also include rev matching when downshifting. Keeping all four tires planted is the job of the struts up front with anti-dive geometry and the five-link rear suspension with anti-squat geometry.

The powertrain is very responsive at the stoplight drags, leaving the also-rans way behind. We tried out the C/S mode switch (located to the left of the shift knob) for the added boost that comes with remapping the gear changes in the sport mode. It is a great feeling, if a bit un-nerving, watching the gas gauge take a nosedive towards E!

The solidity of the steel unibody construction really comes through even while the roof is stowed in the trunk. There was no audible hint of “chassis-flex” as we have seen in other convertibles, whether hard or soft top. With the roof in its normal closed position, it felt even more solid. NVH was well controlled, except where warranted as in the case of being able to hear the exhaust note when accelerating.

Zero to 60 times measure in at 5.3 seconds. Top speed is electronically governed to 155 mph, and fuel capacity is 18.5 gallons. EPA mileage estimates check in at 18-mpg city/ 26-mpg hwy.

Why You Would Buy It

The SLK 350 is the answer to a sporty need for a city car that gets decent highway mileage without having to pony up the cash for the big-brother (and big-ticketed) SL roadster.

Why You Wouldn’t

If you don’t pack very well for weekend getaways, or don’t look good in smallish cars, this ain’t your ride.

Words and Photos by Mark Elias.

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