The Mercedes-Benz SLK Roadster - Style from Start to Finish

The 2015 SLK represents the third generation of a sports car that rocked the automotive world when it unveiled the first automatic retractable hardtop in modern times. The latest SLK boasts a wide SLSinspired front grille with a long hood as well as relatively wide doors and a short rear section.

MAGIC SKY CONTROL

The SLK standard convertible roof features a Panorama Roof with a see-through panel standard as of MY14. Optionally available is MAGIC SKY CONTROL, in which the tinting of the panel can be changed by the occupants, using the same electro-chromic technology as automatic dimming mirrors. Sandwiched between two layers of glass, a chemical film called a matrix polymer holds oblong nano particles that line up uniformly when electrical current is applied, allowing light to pass through. When the electrical current is turned off (via a button beside the mirror), the nano particles disperse randomly, reducing light and tinting the roof panel. Only 40-50 watts of current is used, so the roof can be left in the darkened mode when parked in hot weather.

Direct-Injection Engines

The 2015 Mercedes-Benz SLK line is comprised of three models – all with economical direct-injection engines. With even more power and better fuel economy than its predecessor, the popular SLK350 model is powered by a 3.5- liter V6 that generates 302 horsepower and 273 lb.-ft. of torque, while the SLK250 features a turbocharged 1.8-liter four-cylinder that makes 201 hp and 229 lb.-ft. of torque. The flagship model of the SLK line is the formidable SLK55 AMG, produced by AMG, the company’s high-performance division. Its 5.5-liter V8 is rated at an eye-popping 415 hp and 398 lb.-ft. of torque.

ECO Stop-Start System

The SLK350 and SLK55 AMG are equipped with a very smooth ECO stop-start system. Whenever the car stops with the brake pedal depressed, the engine is automatically turned off to save fuel. As soon as the driver touches the accelerator pedal, the engine computer decides which piston is in the best position for first ignition, and the direct fuel injection and multi-spark systems work with a starter motor to re-start the engine almost instantly.

Economical Seven-Speed Transmission

While the SLK250 is equipped with a sporty six-speed manual transmission, the entire 2015 SLK line is available with a seven-speed automatic transmission that provides even better fuel mileage, more responsive driving, quieter operation and increased durability. The transmission features a more advanced torque converter lock-up clutch and a new type of low-viscosity ATF transmission fluid – colored blue instead of the usual red. Together with special planetary gears, bearings and internal seals, the “FE-ATF” fluid provides less friction and improved fuel mileage.

ATTENTION ASSIST

The SLK comes standard with an innovative “ATTENTION ASSIST” system, which couples a steering movement sensor with intelligent software that can identify the erratic steering corrections drivers make as they begin to get drowsy. When the system senses drowsiness, a warning message appears in the instrument cluster, and the driver is also alerted by a display that says, “Time for a rest!”

Sophisticated enough to disregard sporty driving, the system works between 50 and 100 mph. Elegant in its simplicity, ATTENTION ASSIST essentially adds new computer software to existing sensors.

Blind Spot and Lane Keeping Assist

The SLK features Blind Spot Assist, which uses dedicated radar sensors to monitor both blind spots behind the vehicle. Whenever a turn signal is activated with a vehicle in the blind spot, the driver gets visual and audible warnings.

Lane Keeping Assist makes use of special computer analyzes images from a multi-purpose camera in the windshield to recognize lane markings. This system alerts the driver by simulating rumble strip vibrations in the steering wheel if the car drifts from its lane without the turn signals on.

Adaptive Highbeam Assist

Adaptive Highbeam Assist uses a windshield-mounted camera to control the vertical tilt of both the low- and high-beam headlights. The system is engaged by turning the headlight switch to “Auto” and turning on the high beam setting. Whenever there are no other vehicles in front, the high beams come on automatically, with the lights increasing gradually rather than suddenly. Since drivers no longer have to think about controlling the high beams, Adaptive Highbeam Assist makes it safer and easier to drive in the dark.

mbrace2

Mercedes-Benz was the first manufacturer to make emergency calling a standard feature, and the SLK comes with mbrace2, the next generation of telematics innovation that gives drivers top-of-the-line features related to safety, infotainment, personal assistance and vehicle care. mbrace2 includes the ability to remotely update all software modules via cloud networks, so users always have the latest technology in their vehicles and at their fingertips. New services are also added to the mbrace2 Mobile Application, which is compatible with both iPhone and Android smartphones.

The First Retractable Hardtop in Modern Times

Spearheading a trend that’s still changing the auto industry, the latest SLK is best known for its distinctive retractable hardtop. With the top up, it’s a quiet, weather-tight coupe – push a button, and about 20 seconds later, the car is topless.

Thanks to its pivoting rear window, the folded roof of the SLK takes up relatively little trunk space. Like the retractable hardtop of the larger SL model, the rear window of the SLK pivots to match the curvature of the top as it’s being lowered.

AIRSCARF and AIRGUIDE

An optional AIRSCARF system can extend the open-air driving season into the cooler months. Built into the seatbacks of the SLK, the neck-level heating system blows warm air from the driver and passenger-seat head restraints, allowing occupants to cruise comfortably with the retractable hardtop open in cooler weather. AIRSCARF even compensates automatically for changes in vehicle speed.

A standard fabric air deflector mounts to the SLK roll bars, helping to reduce air buffeting. Going a step further, an optional AIRGUIDE wind deflector mounts to the back of the roll bars. Consisting of two Plexiglas panels, the wind deflectors can be adjusted independently by the driver and front passenger.

About Mercedes-Benz USA

Mercedes-Benz USA (MBUSA), headquartered in Montvale, New Jersey, is responsible for the distribution, marketing and customer service for all Mercedes-Benz products in the United States. MBUSA offers drivers the most diverse line-up in the luxury segment with 14 model lines ranging from the sporty CLA-Class four-door coupe to the flagship S-Class.

MBUSA is also responsible for the distribution, marketing and customer service of Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Vans, and smart products in the U.S. More information on MBUSA and its products can be found at www.mbusa.com, www.mbsprinterusa.com and www.smartusa.com.

Accredited journalists can visit our media site at www.media.mbusa.com.

###