Mercedes-Benz applies light technical changes to the 2015 model year SLK roadster. Available to order now, the two-seater sports car gets new engines and transmissions.
Clearly, the biggest news concerns Mercedes’ new nine-speed 9G-TRONIC automatic, offered as standard for the SLK 300 and the SLK 250 d models while the SLK 200 features a new 6-speed manual transmission. Also available for the SLK 200 as an option, the state-of-the-art 9G-TRONIC gearbox comes with a newly designed, sporty DIRECT SELECT lever on the centre console and steering wheel gearshift paddles.
On the engine front, the SLK is now cleaner, more efficient, thanks to the ECO start/stop function and EU6 emissions rating. The SLK 250 d is also the most environmentally friendly roadster in its performance class with a combined average consumption (NEDC) of 4.4 litres (0.4 of a litre less diesel fuel per 100 kilometres compared to its predecessor) and CO2 emissions rating of 114 grams per kilometre.
As part of the technical update, all four-cylinder SLK models get 3rd-generation direct injection and multi-spark ignition. The SLK 250 is replaced by the new SLK 300 variant which develops 245 hp (180 kW) and 370 Nm, 30 kW and 60 Nm more than its predecessor. The base SLK 200 keeps the 1.991 cc displacement and 184 hp (135 kW) power rating but offers more torque, 300 Nm to be more precise.
For the new model year, Mercedes-Benz has also extended the standard equipment list of the SLK which now includes LED daytime running lamps in a rod design and a new LTE-capable exterior onboard aerial with higher transfer rates. As a result, the COMAND Online multimedia system offers improved speeds for internet access and intuitive operation. Two fresh paint finishes, “selenite grey metallic” and “designo cerussite grey magno”, are also new to the range.
Of course, Mercedes could not forget to improve the range of assistance and safety systems. COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST PLUS now features automatic proximity control, a collision warning function including Adaptive Brake Assist and initiation of autonomous partial braking if the driver fails to react. Blind Spot Assist and Lane Keeping Assist, ATTENTION ASSIST and DISTRONIC PLUS are also optionally available.
