2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK: Up Close review and news
Mercedes announced the third-generation SLK in January, but the New York auto show marks the roadster's official stateside introduction. At a Manhattan dealership�s unveiling of the A-Class concept last night, the automaker had a top-down SLK to check out.
More Coverage of the 2011 New York Auto Show
Though the new SLK is slightly larger than its predecessor � about an inch longer and an inch wider � it retains a similar profile, with stubby overhangs and a rising shoulder line.
Although this technically marks the SLK�s third generation, I wouldn�t be surprised if some onlookers thought it was a mild refresh, in the vein of what Mercedes did with the SL-Class in 2009. The two roadsters bear similar styling themes: a massive grille, wide-bezel headlights and a broad lower intake.
Get inside, and the generational change becomes more apparent. The SLK�s interior is much improved, and it needed to be. We found the old SLK�s cabin materials rather plain for a $50,000-plus sports car. The well-optioned SLK350 had nice leather � a mishmash of cross-stitched bolsters and perforated inserts, all of appropriate quality � and the dash and steering wheel have tasteful sections of polished metal. Open or close the circular air vents, and they have a weighty ka-thunk at full-open or shut. The armrests and door inserts have liberal cushioning � especially important, given the cabin�s limited real estate.
Speaking of which, my hunch is Mercedes carved out a little more space than before. The old SLK had limited legroom; the 2012 model�s dimensions remain the same 42.5 inches, but at 5-foot-11, I had enough room for a full leg extension to the brake pedal, and then some, after motoring the driver�s seat all the way back. I can�t vouch for headroom (it�s up 0.1 inch, according to press specifications) because the roof was powered down.
Short of its AMG variant, the outgoing SLK was more a luxury droptop than a legit sports car. Its successor may not alter that mission � but thanks in particular to the overhauled cabin, it might succed at it better.
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