The 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK, with its power retractable hardtop, is a nimble 2-seat roadster that offers drivers the best of both worlds. The SLK has been revised for '09 with updated front and rear fascias.
For those seeking a true performance machine, the SLK can be had in the SLK55 AMG setup. In addition to a brawny V8 engine, a lower front air damn and side skirts, it features lowered ride height, performance suspension, and 18-inch AMG aluminum wheels.
Engine choices for the SLK lineup are a 228 horsepower 3.0-liter V6, a 300 horsepower 3.5-liter V6, and, for the SLK55 AMG, a 355 horsepower 5.5-liter V8. Power is sent to the rear wheels through a 7-speed automatic transmission on all models other than the base model, which gets a 6-speed manual, with the 7-speed auto optional.
Fuel economy on the SLK ranges from 14 miles per gallon city, up to 26 miles per gallon highway.
Base MSRP for the 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class is $45,950. A fully loaded SLK55 AMG will cost around $75,000. The SLK is backed by 4-year, 50,000-mile powertrain warranty.
The '09 SLK delivers German performance, luxury, and engineering in a fun-to-drive drop-top roadster.