THE NEW Mercedes-Benz SLK is an attractive car but you will only be able to demonstrate to one friend at a time that, in this case, looks keep pace with performance. It is a strict two-seater after all.

Indeed, the third generation SLK takes driving pleasure and open-air enjoyment to a new level. It blends light-footed sportiness with stylish comfort, a striking sports-car design with total suitability for everyday use and top performance with exemplary ecology.

On the outside, the body of the new SLK emphasises its classic roadster proportions and puts them in the spotlight to thrilling effect. Behind the long bonnet there is a passenger compartment positioned far back, and a short tail end. Inside, the cabin is quite generous for a two-seater. To achieve this, the designers have developed interior appointments which offer you the highest degree of perfect perceived quality and precision. The centre console and other trim parts gleam in brushed aluminium, and galvanised air outlets, integrated in the dashboard, emphasise that this model well and truly belongs to the Mercedes-Benz sports car family.

Under the bonnet, the SLK 350 harbours a powerful new 6-cylinder engine, featuring the standard-specification ECO start/stop function. This enables commendable efficiency without compromising on sportiness. In fact, it is up to 25 per cent more economical than its predecessor. Yet the 306bhp, 3498cc lump can thrust you from 0 to 62mph in just 5.6 seconds and on to a top speed of 155mph. And, amazingly, even if you flex the SLK’s muscle, the car can return up to 39.8 miles per gallon.

If truth be told, the potent pocket-rocket offers fun at the wheel in every respect, with no feeble compromises. It succeeds in uniting sumptuous seating and high-quality equipment with athletic prowess. All-weather driving enjoyment – with the roof open and closed, in leisure-time and everyday use – is also firmly anchored in the SLK’s genes.

With all these attributes the all-new SLK 350 from the German geniuses at Mercedes-Benz is surely one of the most refined and practical roadsters available on the market today.

PROS ‘N’ CONS

• Stylish √
• Comfortable √
• Fast √
• Fun √
• Not cheap X

FAST FACTS

• Max speed: 155 mph
• 0-62 mph: 5.6 seconds
• Combined mpg: 39.8
• Engine: 3498 cc, 6 cylinder, petrol
• Max. power (bhp): 306 at 6500 rpm
• Max torque (lb/ft): 273 at 3500-5250 rpm
• CO2: 167 g/km
• Price: £44,225 On the road

Follow Tim Barnes-Clay on Twitter: @carwriteups>>@carwriteups

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Mercedes-Benz SLK 350 BlueEFFICIENCY AMG SPORT, Reviewed by Tim Barnes-Clay

06 September 2011

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