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Mercedes Benz has added a new string to it's SLK bow with the launch of the SLK 300 – a second, smaller V6-powered variant – of the car that enjoys cult status for the well-heeled. The new variant has a 3.0 litre V6 producing 170 kW of power and 300 Nm of torque run through a seven speed auto transmission.
This is well down on power, and price, of the SLK 350. The SLK 350 will set you back $118,000 before on-roads, while the SLK 300 breaks the six figure barrier at $98,600, at least before on-roads. The SLK 350 also boasts the same high-revving engine as the SL 350, that pushes out 224 kW of power and 360 Nm of torque.
The SLK 300 is the fourth variant of the SLK sold here and joins the SLK 200 K (for Kompressor or supercharger), SKL 350 and the fire-breathing SLK 55 AMG V8. The SLK comes well-equipped with satellite navigation, single CD player, new design 18 inch alloys, seven speed 7G-Tronic transmission, AMG sports pack with interior and exterior enhancements, electric seats, steering wheel and memory, paddle shifters on the steering wheel and metallic paint.
The SLK underwent a major facelift in 2008 and remains a striking sports car with the ability to transform to a roadster in 22 seconds thanks to a folding hardtop. Top up or down, it's a head turner and a car for all seasons, as long there's no more than two passengers and not too much luggage.
The SLK is all about style, something that hasn't changed since being introduced back in 1996. Pigeon hole it as a fashion item to be seen on the streets of the North Shore, South Yarra or the Gold Coast's Main Beach. However, there's a contradiction between style and ride with the SLK presenting as a fairly raw sports-car in handling, steering and comfort levels. The SLK 300 is no exception. Mercedes launched the new variant with a road test program from Mt Macedon to Tullamarine Airport on a variety of country roads, highway driving and cruising through quaint Victorian towns.
This is the last upgrade of the SLK before a new model arrives in late 2010 in Europe and 2011 in Australia. The small V6 gives SLK buyers a second choice between the 1.8 litre supercharged four cylinder and the AMG V8. Our first drive of the SLK 300 reveals a car that fails to excite like the SLK 350 and SLK 55 AMG.
The engine lacks grunt at the lower and and seems a little breathless as the revs climb above 5000 rpm. Maximum torque is available between 2500 – 5000 rpm and it's either side of this where the SLK 300 just struggles where you would think it would excel. Inside the cabin is a delight with power seats and the AMG sports package adds to the already rich ambiance. The exterior also looks the part with AMG touches here and there including a boot spoiler.
The SLK 300 reaches 100 km/h in 6.2 seconds and returns economy of 9.1 litres/100 km, depending on driving style and road conditions. The seven speed transmission assists to get the best out of the 3.0 litre engine and the paddle shifters are certainly fun and functional for those who like to keep their hands on the wheel.
SLK MODELS AND PRICING
SLK 200 K 1.8 l 4-cyl supercharged 6 spd. Man. $90,100
SLK 300 3.0 l V6 petrol 7 spd. Auto $98,600
SLK 350 3.5 l V6 petrol 6 spd. Man. $118,000
SLK 55 AMG 5.5 l V8 petrol 7 spd. Auto. $175,000
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