Now the metamorphosis has come to full fruition with the addition of a fourth model to the range in Australia - the all-new SLK 300. Added punch comes from a second V6 engine putting out 170kW of power and 300Nm of torque, compared with 224kW and 360Nm respectively of the SLK 350.

 

 

SLK designers have matched the two-seater’s added attitude with more striking looks. The front bumper has a more distinctive V-shape with a modified air-dam, while the Mercedes star now shines brighter with a diffuser look at the base. Mercedes performance arm AMG has also got in on the act, with the car’s body styling adding a sharper edge to the look.

 

The SLK 300 is fun to drive with power being delivered smoothly with almost instantaneous response to the driver’s right foot. Steering wheel-mounted shift paddles add to the fun aspect of the drive. The speed sensitive steering has the car cruising through even the tightest, most uneven bends, while slow-speed city driving and parking present no problem to the versatile mechanical set-up.

 

 

The SLK 300 is no stripped back sports machine. It carries a host of quality features. Apart from the AMG body styling, with side skirts and boot lid-mounted spoiler, there are new-design 18in five twin-spoke alloy wheels and a Mercedes satellite navigation system hooked up to a single CD/DVD player.

 

Safety highlights include four airbags for the driver and passenger, including combined head/thorax side bags, as well as seatbelt pretensioners with belt force limiters. ABS anti-skid brakes include brake assist and the vehicle is kept on an even keel, even under the most stressful handling circumstances, by an electronic stability program and advanced suspension.

 

Customers can add factory fitted options such as Airscarf neck-level heating with three temperature settings and six-disc in-dash CD/DVD Comand APS navigation. Without these options the SLK 300 comes onto the market at less than $100,000 - $98,600 (manufacturer’s list price) plus on-road costs.