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Mercedes-Benz SLK350 2011 review: snapshot

EXPERT RATING
8

WE turn the spotlight on the car world's newest and brightest stars as we ask the questions to which you want the answers. But there's only one question that really needs answering - would you buy one?

What is it?

This is the new generation Mercedes-Benz SLK roadster, the 3.5-litre petrol model, one from the top when the AMG version arrives next year.

How much?

A competitive $118,900 ... with a hefty tax component.

What are its competitors?

Porsche's Boxster 3.4S (cost a lot more), BMW's long nose Z4 35is, Audi's TTS Roadster (a lot less).

What's under the bonnet?

Runs a sweet sounding, naturally aspirated, smooth as silk, 3.5-litre, V6 petrol engine with direct injection driving the rear wheels through a slick seven speed automatic, with paddle shift and multi-modes.

How does it go?

Like a rocket, good for a 5.6 second 0-100kmh sprint and offers stupendous performance across a wide engine speed range. Best in M  (manual) mode if you want the full sporty experience. Handles like you'd expect - sharp as a tack, fast responses.

Is it economical?

Pretty good at 8.3-litres/100km combined but you'll need premium, of course.

Is it green?

Gets a 4.5 rating in the Green Car Guide.

Is it safe?

Engineered for a five star crash rating.

Is it comfortable?

Cabin could be tight for larger types but otherwise - the lap of luxury with plenty of flow down stuff from the SLS model and the multi drive mode system gives you choices in dynamics from comfort through to full-on sporty.

What's it like to drive?

Superb, trumpeting exhaust sings a sweet song, quick, composed, razor sharp steering, snappy gear changes in M for manual mode. A real sports car. Love the new Magic Sky Roof  with variable tint or fold it right down for open tp motoring.

Is it value for money?

Right in the middle of the price range of its competitors. Bear in mind there's a hefty Luxury Car Tax imposition on this (and many other) cars.

Would we buy one?

Yep, in red.

Mercedes-Benz SLK350

Looks 4 stars Value 3 stars
Performance 4 stars Safety 5 stars
Practicality 2 stars Enviro 3.5 stars
Comfort 3 stars Tech 4 stars
Economy 3 stars Dynamics 4 stars

Pricing guides

$25,490
Based on 4 cars listed for sale in the last 6 months
Lowest Price
$19,500
Highest Price
$27,990

Range and Specs

VehicleSpecsPrice*
SLK55 AMG 5.4L, PULP, 7 SP AUTO $30,250 – 36,410 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class 2011 SLK55 AMG Pricing and Specs
SLK300 3.0L, PULP, 6 SP MAN $16,060 – 20,570 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class 2011 SLK300 Pricing and Specs
SLK200 Kompressor 1.8L, PULP, 6 SP MAN $14,300 – 18,810 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class 2011 SLK200 Kompressor Pricing and Specs
SLK350 BE 3.5L, PULP, 7 SP AUTO $25,190 – 31,130 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class 2011 SLK350 BE Pricing and Specs
EXPERT RATING
8
Peter Barnwell
https://www.carsguide.com.au/authors/peter-barnwell

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Pricing Guide

$19,500

Lowest price, based on 3 car listings in the last 6 months

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Disclaimer: The pricing information shown in the editorial content (Review Prices) is to be used as a guide only and is based on information provided to Carsguide Autotrader Media Solutions Pty Ltd (Carsguide) both by third party sources and the car manufacturer at the time of publication. The Review Prices were correct at the time of publication.  Carsguide does not warrant or represent that the information is accurate, reliable, complete, current or suitable for any particular purpose. You should not use or rely upon this information without conducting an independent assessment and valuation of the vehicle.