Mercedes-benz Slk350 Review

WHAT’S NEW? A 10Best Cars winner in 2005, the SLK350 roadster gets a 32-hp boost for ’09. A higher compression ratio, a new intake manifold, and a modified valvetrain enhance the more powerful 3.5-liter V-6 and raise its redline by 1000 rpm. Unfortunately, the new engine won’t be hooked up to a manual transmission; Mercedes’ excellent seven-speed automatic with manual controls is standard. A new variable-ratio steering rack, dubbed “direct-steer,” quickens the steering the farther the wheel is turned off-center. Other changes include revised bumpers and a slightly retouched interior.

SO IS IT BETTER? Alas, the SLK350 is confined to life with an automatic transmission, and despite the paddle shifters and manumatic function, some of the spirit and sports-car character of the previous model is gone. Yes, the new engine sounds and feels strong and offers better fuel economy, but the previous engine when mated to a manual was marginally quicker. Steering response with the new rack feels sharper and more precise than before. Design changes are minor and keep the SLK looking fresh.


WHAT’S THE COST? The newfound power and multitude of minor changes add up to a base price of $50,825, or $500 more than the 2008 SLK350.

POWERTRAIN: DOHC 24-valve 3.5-liter V-6; 300 hp, 265 lb-ft; 7-speed automatic

FUEL ECONOMY:
EPA city/hwy: 18/26 mpg

C/D TEST RESULTS:
Zero to 60 mph: 5.5 sec
Standing ¼-mile: 14.0 sec @ 102 mph
70-to-0-mph braking: 166 ft
300-ft-dia skidpad: 0.87 g