2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK 55 front

Mercedes' makeover for its entry-level roadster replaced many of the first model's numerous flaws. Recirculating-ball steering got the ax while whiny 4-cylinder and just-adequate V6s got replaced by a stout 3.5-liter V6 on the SLK350 and a 5.4-liter V8 on the SLK55. New this year is a 3.0-liter V6 on the SLK280 with 228 horsepower. Its transmissions (yes, there is a manual this time) have six or seven gears. No longer does the SLK's sporty appearance have a loose connection to its engineering.