2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK Class news, pictures, and information

SLK Transforms from a Quiet Coupe to Topless Roadster in 22 Seconds

All three SLK models boast athletic performance, thanks in part to an innovative Direct-Steer system. Variable-ratio rack gearing provides impressive on-center §teering feel wîth even higher responsiveness beyond the first five degrees of §teering angle. Purely a mechanical system, Direct Steer minimizes §teering input during cornering and in low-speed maneuvers such as parking.

SLK350 Engine Boasts 300 Horsepower

Both the SLK300 and SLK350 use advanced V6 engine technology that includes four valves per cylinder and variable valve timing. The 3.0-liter twin-cam V6 develops more than 80 percent of its maximum torque at only 1,500 rpm. While variable valve timing gets much of the credit for the SLK300's broad torque curve, a two-stage intake manifold plays a key role as well. Other high-tech engine features include tumble flaps that increase gas mileage by creating more turbulence in the intake passages at part throttle.

With a higher-revving, 7,200-rpm redline, the SLK350 engine features more horsepower and torque, thanks to its larger displacement as well as specially shaped pistons that produce a higher 11.7-to-1 compression ratio, a modified camshaft for higher valve lift, heavy-duty conical valve springs and lightweight valves made of high-temperature steel as well as sodium-cooled exhaust valves. To counteract high-speed camshaft chain vibration, the higher-revving SLK350 Sport engine comes wîth tri-oval chain sprockets. Above 6,300 rpm, the tri-oval sprockets generate inversely phased pulses that tend to neutralize the usual vibration. For maximum air flow at high rpm, the Sport engine also makes use of a single-stage intake manifold, and valve timing has been advanced slightly to preserve its broad power range.

The SLK-Class can be ordered wîth a Sport package that includes AMG body styling, sport suspension, §teering-wheel gearshift paddles and 18-inch AMG wheels. The Sport package includes AMG's automatic 'rev-matching' feature for virtually jolt-free downshifting, which reduces load-change handling response, and for motorsports-minded drivers, improves braking before turn-in.

Coupe to Topless Roadster in Only 22 Seconds

With the first retractable hardtop in modern times, the SLK started an trend toward hardtop convertibles that's still going strong. After shaking up the small roadster market when it was introduced more than a decade ago, the second-generation SLK wowed the public again when it hit Ú.S. streets in 2004.

The retractable hardtop of the SLK sets it apart from the competition. With the top up, it's a quiet coupe – push a button, and the car goes topless. The SLK roof goes up or down in 22 seconds, and the folded roof takes up surprisingly little trunk space – thanks to its pivoting rear window. Like the retractable hardtop of the larger SL model, the rear window of the latest SLK swivels to match the curvature of the top, providing nearly three more cubic feet of trunk room than its predecessor.

Styling Influenced by the World of Formula 1 Racing

With freshened styling for 2009, the latest SLK line boasts a front design wîth a strong influence from the world of Formula 1 racing, a rear apron incorporating an air diffuser and trapezoidal exhaust outlets. Inside, all SLKs showcase chronometer-type gauges wîth aluminum accents, a three-spoke sport §teering wheel and an audio system wîth an in-dash six-disc CD / DVD changer as well as a Bluetooth interface that allows a cellular phone still in a pocket or purse to be operated through the car's audio system.

The SLK is available wîth an optional multimedia package that includes a harmon/kardon premium audio system, HD radio, SIRIÚS-XM satellite radio, GPS navigation wîth a larger display, a voice control system, an SD memory card slot and a hard drive for storing music and GPS navigation maps.

One of the Safest Open Cars

	Vital Stats
Engine : 3.0 L., 6-cylinder Power: 228 hp Torque: 221 ft-lbs Engine : 5.4 L., 8-cylinder Power: 355 hp Torque: 376 ft-lbs Engine : 3.5 L., 6-cylinder Power: 300 hp Torque: 265 ft-lbs
6-speed Manual, 7-speed Automatic

The SLK is considered one of the safest roadsters in the world. In addition to its integrated roll bars and two-stage front air bags for both the driver and passenger, the SLK is also equipped wîth dual knee bags and head-thorax air bags which are located in the seat backs and can deploy above the top of the seat back to help provide better head and neck protection, similar to the curtain-type air bags on fixed-roof Mercedes models.

Like all Mercedes-Benz passenger vehicles, the SLK comes equipped wîth ESP stability control, a Mercedes innovation that can help prevent slides and spins, especially in slippery weather. ESP can detect an impending spin or slide and prevent it by applying the brakes to individual wheels or reducing engine power. In addition, traction control helps to provide safer travel on slippery roads.

The SLK's unibody uses an impressive amount of high-strength steel alloy – 42 percent of the total structure – and the entire body shell is zinc-coated for long-term corrosion protection. The SLK also makes use of a scratch-resistant clearcoat paint that was developed in the nano-technology sector.

AIRSCARF for an Extended Driving Season