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26th
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Price Range: $52,200 to $80,500-plus
Description: Now in its third generation, the 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class takes the two-seat compact roadster goodness launched by the original in 1996 to all-new levels.
More modern, advanced and upscale than ever, this posh drop-top packs three engine options, including an ultra-performance AMG variant, as well as the latest in efficiency and luxury touches. No fewer than five option packages and a full range of accessories help drivers fine-tune the 2013 SLK to their personal tastes.
A two-seat roadster, the 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class packs plenty of at-hand storage and a reasonable trunk, making it ideal as a daily commuter or a two-person weekend getaway machine. The hard-top roof can be toggled between its open or closed position at the touch of a button in just a few seconds.
Drivetrain: Several engines are available to meet a variety of tastes. The range-opening SLK 250 model gets a 1.8L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine with 201 horsepower and 229 lb-ft of torque. Look for an automatic or manual gearbox here. The SLK 350 packs a high-revving 3.5L, 302-horsepower V6 which should prove adequate for most drivers.
If not, the SLK 55 AMG is the solution, as it shoehorns a 5.5L, 415-horsepower V8 engine into the compact engine bay for 0-100 km/h in a rip-snorting 4.6 seconds.
Consider it if: you're after a touch of the premium convertible high-life from a lusted-after brand or you're after a sporty convertible that's just as comfortable and every-day friendly as it is fun to drive. The SLK is noted by owners and reviewers to be a sensible machine, as far as roadsters go. Long-haul comfort, handling, performance, and all-weather confidence are top-notch.
Skip it if: you're on a budget, you need a rear seat, or you'd rather a coupe as the 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK only comes as a convertible. Pricing of $52,200 for the base model, $67,000 for the SLK 350, and over $80,000 for the SLK 55 AMG may be prohibitive for some.
Other Notes: The 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK range packs the latest luxury-car touches, despite its compact size. Look for full multimedia connectivity; a driver computer; premium audio options; power everything; memory seats; automatic climate control; and push-button start. Radar-guided cruise control is available, too.
Don't Miss: Two clever roadster innovations help set the 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK apart. First, the AIRSCARF system incorporates a heat vent within the seat, positioned just behind each occupant's neck. A powerful heater provides a virtual “scarf” of warm air when the system is turned on to help extend the top-down season.
Second, the MAGIC SKY CONTROL roof lets drivers tint or clear the full-glass roof panel at the touch of a button. Tap the button once and a bit of clever electrochemistry darkens the glass, instantly. Tap it again, and the glass clears, letting in the rays -- a great conversation starter.
Description: Now in its third generation, the 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class takes the two-seat compact roadster goodness launched by the original in 1996 to all-new levels.
More modern, advanced and upscale than ever, this posh drop-top packs three engine options, including an ultra-performance AMG variant, as well as the latest in efficiency and luxury touches. No fewer than five option packages and a full range of accessories help drivers fine-tune the 2013 SLK to their personal tastes.
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A two-seat roadster, the 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class packs plenty of at-hand storage and a reasonable trunk, making it ideal as a daily commuter or a two-person weekend getaway machine. The hard-top roof can be toggled between its open or closed position at the touch of a button in just a few seconds.
Drivetrain: Several engines are available to meet a variety of tastes. The range-opening SLK 250 model gets a 1.8L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine with 201 horsepower and 229 lb-ft of torque. Look for an automatic or manual gearbox here. The SLK 350 packs a high-revving 3.5L, 302-horsepower V6 which should prove adequate for most drivers.
If not, the SLK 55 AMG is the solution, as it shoehorns a 5.5L, 415-horsepower V8 engine into the compact engine bay for 0-100 km/h in a rip-snorting 4.6 seconds.
Consider it if: you're after a touch of the premium convertible high-life from a lusted-after brand or you're after a sporty convertible that's just as comfortable and every-day friendly as it is fun to drive. The SLK is noted by owners and reviewers to be a sensible machine, as far as roadsters go. Long-haul comfort, handling, performance, and all-weather confidence are top-notch.
Skip it if: you're on a budget, you need a rear seat, or you'd rather a coupe as the 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK only comes as a convertible. Pricing of $52,200 for the base model, $67,000 for the SLK 350, and over $80,000 for the SLK 55 AMG may be prohibitive for some.
Other Notes: The 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK range packs the latest luxury-car touches, despite its compact size. Look for full multimedia connectivity; a driver computer; premium audio options; power everything; memory seats; automatic climate control; and push-button start. Radar-guided cruise control is available, too.
Don't Miss: Two clever roadster innovations help set the 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK apart. First, the AIRSCARF system incorporates a heat vent within the seat, positioned just behind each occupant's neck. A powerful heater provides a virtual “scarf” of warm air when the system is turned on to help extend the top-down season.
Second, the MAGIC SKY CONTROL roof lets drivers tint or clear the full-glass roof panel at the touch of a button. Tap the button once and a bit of clever electrochemistry darkens the glass, instantly. Tap it again, and the glass clears, letting in the rays -- a great conversation starter.
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| Photo: Mercedes-Benz |