The New 2012 SLK: athletic and sophisticated

"The new SLK embodies the role of the trend-setter like no other car", says Dr. Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of the Board of Management of Daimler AG and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars. "I am convinced that with its passionate design, its high-quality interior and its modesty at the fuel station it will continue to provide an enormous amount of fun on the road in the future, too, consolidating its status as a cult roadster."

Innovations are part of the successful history of the Mercedes-Benz SLK:

• In 1996, the first generation caused a sensation with the retractable hardtop, which transformed the open roadster into a fixed-roof coupe at the touch of a button in just a few seconds.
• The second generation placed the warm AIRSCARF around the neck and shoulders of the occupants, providing top-down enjoyment in cooler temperatures.
• Now the third generation presents a unique highlight – the world premiere of the panorama retractable hardtop with MAGIC SKY CONTROL, which can be quickly switched to light or dark transparency at the touch of a button.

The 2012 SLK-Class unites premium comfort and high-quality equipment with an especially athletic flair. At the same time the new roadster is the most fuel efficient in its class matched with segment-leading safety. All-weather driving enjoyment – open or closed, during weekends or the daily commute – is built-in to the SLK's genes. The 2012 SLK350 goes on-sale in the U.S. in June 2011.

Dr. Thomas Weber, Member of the Board of Management responsible for Group Research and Head of Development, Mercedes-Benz Cars: "With the SLK we offer a wide range of technical alternatives to give customers a personal choice. Among them are a number of unique innovations. Moreover, the SLK is a prime example of how impressive performance, stylish driving comfort and high ecological standards can go hand in hand. In the 125-year history of the automobile, we have never experienced such major leaps in efficiency. Lower fuel consumption and even more driving pleasure – a formula we certainly translate into reality in the SLK."

Outstanding on all fronts

The best or nothing – this motto is at the heart of the Mercedes-Benz philosophy, and also the guiding theme for the new SLK. From the start the roadster was designed to provide top performance in all areas, and Mercedes-Benz engineers have rigorously translated this requirement into reality giving the SLK attributes that provide the roadster with a peak position in its segment. Among them are extremely compact dimensions combined with a generous interior with numerous practical features. Outstanding performance and sporty, agile handling are also major characteristics of the new SLK. The new SLK is also the safest roadster with its unrivalled range of safety features.

Dr Joachim Schmidt, Head of Sales and Marketing at Mercedes-Benz Cars: "Firmly embedded in the genes of the SLK is exhilarating driving pleasure in any weather conditions, open or closed, for recreation or day-to-day driving. It combines its sporty character with outstanding comfort and high-grade appointments. The new SLK also sets new standards among the compact roadsters where fuel economy and environmental compatibility are concerned. A wealth of outstanding attributes and technical innovations will once again make it the benchmark in its class – and undoubtedly also a success for our brand. The SLK is a roadster with character, and everyone will want it."

Even more features

The new SLK has a wealth of new features compared to its already well-equipped predecessor.

New standard equipment

• New-generation 4 and 6-cylinder engines with direct injection
• ATTENTION ASSIST
• New 5.8-inch color display with Bluetooth audio streaming
• NECK-PRO head restraints
• Electric parking brake (EPB)
• Headbags in the doors
• Full LED tail lights
• Optimized seven-speed 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission
• Advanced tire pressure loss warning system
• LED Daytime running lamps

New optional extras

• Solar Red ambient lighting
• COMAND system with 7-inch color display and central controller
• Bi-xenon headlamps with active curve illumination
• KEYLESS-GO
• PARKTRONIC with Parking Guidance
• Panoramic retractable hardtop
• Panoramic retractable hardtop with MAGIC SKY CONTROL (switchable transparency)
• AIRGUIDE wind-stop
• Analog clock on the dashboard

To view the complete press release, please download the PDF file.