Mercedes-Benz SLK Class | The New Generation Two-Seater

Mercedes-Benz SLK Class

A New Generation of Two-Seaters Announced Online

Mercedes-BenzJapan held an online presentation for the "SLK," a two-seater convertible model that has undergone a full model change for the first time in seven years. This marks a first for the car brand.

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Road Movie "SPEED DATE" Featuring the New SLK Released

The Japan premiere of the new SLK, which has undergone its first full model change in seven years, was held online. The special website features a video that begins with remarks from Nicholas Speeks, President and CEO of Mercedes-Benz Japan, who watches the road movie "SPEED DATE" made with the SLK. Following Mr. Speeks' greeting, Kintaro Ueno, Vice President and Representative Director, provided an explanation of the car.

The SLK can be said to be the most successful sports model in Mercedes' history. The appeal of this new, third-generation model lies first in its more muscular and elegant appearance compared to its predecessor. Its wide and dynamic front fascia, reminiscent of the SLS and SL, and its long-nose, short-deck side profile are deeply etched with a character line similar to the dropping line adopted by the new CLS.

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The interior is designed based on Mercedes' latest design theme, inspired by the wings of a jet aircraft. Brushed aluminum is used for the center console and door interior trim as standard, with options for high-gloss dark walnut wood, black ash wood, or carbon trim. The air vents are the same shape as those in the SLS, and the steering wheel has a flat bottom. While maintaining a sporty impression overall, the interior also emphasizes the quality of materials for a refined finish.

The body dimensions are 4,134mm in length, 1,810mm in width, and 1,301mm in height. Compared to the second generation, the width remains unchanged, but the length has increased by 29mm and the height by 16mm. However, by using aluminum for the hood and fenders, the SLK 200 BlueEFFICIENCY Sport's weight has only increased by 5kg compared to the previous 200 Kompressor. The 350 BlueEFFICIENCY weighs 1540kg, an increase of 40kg compared to the previous 350. According to Vice President Ueno, "The ease of maneuverability has been thoroughly inherited." The Cd value (coefficient of drag) has been reduced by 0.2 from the previous model to 0.3.

Newly Developed 3.5-Liter Engine Boasts High Environmental Performance

The engine lineup includes a 1.8-liter inline four-cylinder turbocharged engine for the SLK 200 BlueEFFICIENCY Sport, and a completely newly developed 3.5-liter V6 engine for the SLK 350 BlueEFFICIENCY, featuring piezo injectors and multi-spark ignition. The former produces a maximum output of 135kW (184ps), and the latter produces a maximum output of 225kW (306ps). The transmission is a 7-speed automatic, the 7G-TRONIC PLUS.

Thanks to technologies like BlueDIRECT and ECO start/stop, the engine in the SLK 350 achieves excellent fuel economy of 7.1 L/100km and CO2 emissions of 167g/km. The SLK 200's environmental performance is 6.1-6.5 L/100km for fuel economy and 142-151g/km for CO2 emissions.

Another highlight of the new SLK is the adoption of "Magic Sky Control." This new technology allows the transparency of the roof to be adjusted with the touch of a button, enabling drivers to enjoy the open-air experience regardless of the weather.

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With its cutting-edge technology, it is no exaggeration to say that this new model embodies the very essence of a next-generation roadster.

Prices start at 5.25 million yen. Reservations are now being accepted at dealerships, with deliveries scheduled for July. The "SPEED DATE" road movie can also be viewed on the official Mercedes-Benz Japan website.