The
2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK is a two-passenger luxury roadster with a hardtop tractable roof. Whether you choose the SLK300 with a 3.0 liter V-6 or the SLK350 with a 3.5 liter V-6, you'll see this little convertible packs a lot of power for its size. The SLK300 engine is paired to either a six-speed manual transmission or a seven-speed automatic, while the SKL350 comes with the seven-speed.
With a penchant for spirited performance, the Mercedes SLK is a driver's car distinguished by sharp handling and a comfortable ride. Its cozy, luxurious interior, although not as fancy as some of its Mercedes big brothers, fits into its small car profile. The SLK provides a nice array of safety equipment and gets fuel economy in the 17 mpg city / 26 mpg highway range.
New for 2011
For 2011, the Mercedes SLK350 received new 18-inch split five-spoke wheels, while both the SLK300 and SLK350 now have standard sport body styling and black headlight inlays.
Essentials
Engines: 3.0L V-6, 3.5L V-6
Transmissions: 6-speed manual, 7-speed automatic
Body Style: Convertible
Trims: SLK300 Roadster, SLK350 Roadster
On the Outside
Much more mature than its predecessors, the Mercedes SLK is distinguished by sculpted front- and rear-end styling.
From the Inside
Fewer features come standard on the SLK-Class because it is a less-expensive member of the Mercedes family. However, the leather two-seat cabin includes a nine-speaker audio system, dual-zone climate control, and manual sport seats. Options are Harman Kardon surround sound and digital climate control.
Driving Performance
While not the sportiest car in its class, SLK delivers comfortable cruising and elegant style in a compact package. In the SLK, the 3.5-liter V-6 engine has more horsepower than in other Mercedes, with 300 horses instead of 268.
Safety Equipment
Standard safety equipment on the Mercedes SLK includes stability control, traction control, and four-wheel discs with ABS with brake assist. In addition, dual stage airbags and knee airbags, plus head-thorax airbags, which are integrated into the backrests of the seats, are also standard.
Gas Mileage
SLK300: 17-19 mpg city/26 mpg highway
SLK350: 18 mpg city/25 mpg highway
Plusses
- Comfortable ride
- Cozy interior
- Terrific manual transmission
Minuses
- Only two engine options
- Lack of sports car handling
- Weight compromises smaller V-6
Rating
Little car with grown up looks
People Who Like the 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class Also Like
- BMW Z4
- Porsche Boxster
- Audi TT
- Volvo C70