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2008 Mercedes SLK Facelift Unveiled

speedspies submitted on 12/21/2007 Official AutoSpies Timestamp: 8:04 AM
from: magazine16.com

[21] user comments | category: New Cars

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Tags: 2008, Mercedes, SLK, Facelift, Unveiled

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2008 Mercedes SLK Facelift Unveiled

The Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class Roadsters have long captured the hearts of sports car enthusiasts. Incorporating around 650 newly developed parts, the SLK models of 2008 are even more dynamic and now offer an even more emotionally charged driving experience. Key visual enhancements include new-look front and rear sections as well as a meticulously modified interior with a new instrument cluster and three-spoke sports steering wheel. A fast-running V6 sports engine developing 224 kW/305 hp and an optionally available direct-steer system truly bring the bold, dynamic character of the two-seater SLK 350 to the fore. Furthermore, all of the engines in the line-up are now far more economical on fuel and, therefore, emit even less CO2, despite a substantial increase in output in many cases. The new-generation SLK models will be available from April 2008, pricing will be announced early in 2008.

Since their first appearance in 1997, the compact SLK Roadsters have come to symbolise Mercedes-Benz’ dynamic brand image. Already a familiar sight on our roads, the second-generation two-seater is to be further enhanced with the implementation of a raft of measures in 2008, to further emphasise the car’s sporty character and continue the SLK-Class success story by introducing new, dynamic, powerful elements. Sales of the SLK-Class Roadster are now approaching the half-million mark with over 495,000 sold, over 40,000 of which were sold in the UK.

The new-generation SLK displays new sporty highlights, further enhancing the appeal of the successful two-seater with the trendsetting vario-roof that transforms the car from a roadster into a weatherproof coupé in a matter of seconds.

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DaHarder - 12/21/2007 9:49:17 AM

+2 Boost

Great Hp increase, but I'd call this a very minor 'face lift' as it's barely even noticeable...

Good thing it's such a fantastic looking vehicle anyway!

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JUGNU - 12/21/2007 11:22:06 AMView My AgentSpace

+1 Boost

Nice competitive V6 engine.

btw I don't see many men driving SLK here in Middle East. It's very popular with women.

JUGNU

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Bill - 12/21/2007 11:24:41 AM

+2 Boost

So is the Z4, TT, MX-5 etc.

Women represent a strong purchasing power in this class.

The new SLK looks great. I am digging the Formula One style front lower bumper. It adds some more visual sportiness to an already dynamic design. The interior shots look great too. I welcome the addition of optional wood trim for those of us who like a sporty SLK on the outside, but a luxurious one on the inside.

Georgemia - 12/28/2007 1:16:58 AM

+1 Boost

SLK is the girliest car in the world. With the nose job, it matches it's chosen clientele perfectly.

The interior needed work, was as cheesy as the cellulite thighs of the drivers.

TauronB2G - 12/21/2007 11:30:42 AM

+3 Boost

We are above the 300 hp mark fellas. This engine will soon be in the C Class too. Will the engine help out in the power race with BMW? Also, I personally prefer a naturally aspirated engine to turbos. How do you feel about the difference in the BMW turbo engines vs naturally aprirated MB engines?
T

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mini22 - 12/21/2007 12:01:42 PM

+2 Boost

I have to say its a good looking car.The interior looks noce as well. Its too bad the interior of the C class it not up to snuff.

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JWalkerLegrande - 12/21/2007 5:25:19 PM

+1 Boost

Interestingly enough, I rarely hear this well-founded comment on the C interior. I was shocked to see that Mercedes believes that 1990's Nissans are the way to go.

chuck717 - 12/21/2007 12:15:53 PM

+2 Boost

A nice looker for sure, good handling xlnt total pkg without a huge, huge, price tag.

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Rupert - 12/21/2007 2:18:12 PMView My AgentSpace

+1 Boost

Looks good.
New engine has been out in the CLS in Europe for about a year.

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DaHarder - 12/21/2007 2:44:33 PM

+2 Boost

Even with 300+ Hp, I don't feel that a 6 cylinder Mercedes CLS would get a very receptive response in the States.

Of course, that could change very quickly given the ever rising cost of fuel, and new/more stringent MPG regulations on the horizon.

Rupert - 12/21/2007 4:45:10 PMView My AgentSpace

+1 Boost

We get the 350 and the 320cdi engines in the CLS...same engine line up as the S class.

Generally, anything that has its base model as a 6 cylinder is a premium vehicle, so a 6 cylinder large Merc is a premium car, no question.

TauronB2G - 12/21/2007 8:12:47 PM

+1 Boost

I don't know why a cls 350 would have a hard time in america. The sell E 350's and hell bmw sells 525's or is it 528's and the engine in that particular car feels downright anemic to me...especially in xi form. I think they could sell a 300hp CLS350 here with no problem.
T

DaHarder - 12/21/2007 11:05:59 PM

+1 Boost

The CLS is perceived as far more 'exclusive' (almost like a modern interpretation of a custom/coach built vehicle) than either the E-Class (on which it's based) or BMW's 5-Series, by virtually everyone I know (in America) so therefore these 'lesser' engines are considered somewhat inappropriate/unworthy...

Which is NOT to say that they're not great powerplants, just not well suited to a vehicle of this caliber by American standards.

We all know that these 'perceptions' are different in the European market.

Note: That's why ONLY higher performance versions of BMW's 1-series are offered in the U.S. whereas in Europe there are 'lesser' engine choices.

Mercedes - 12/21/2007 11:22:02 PM

+1 Boost

Not the same engine. The engine in the SLK facelift is newer and doesn't have direct injection like the CLS/E350 CGI models in Europe.

I95SPEEDINGTICKETS - 12/21/2007 6:38:16 PM

+1 Boost

I keep getting the impression of a Gap Toothed Woman.

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keyzi747 - 12/21/2007 9:33:54 PM

-3 Boost

Well, it is still one of the ugliest cars out right now. Should have taken advantage of the opportunity to redesign the nose of the car. It is hideous!

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Hyundai - 12/22/2007 12:14:25 AM

+1 Boost

VERY tasteful facelift. The HP increase is also welcome.

Good job!

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Tonee - 12/22/2007 7:16:51 PM

+1 Boost

Subtle face lift, looks nice. Did the interior get a little work done also? It sure looks that way. The new horse power increase in much needed, in times where a six cylinder putting out 300hp is the norm. Hope they spread it across the line into the C350, E350, CLK350, and ML350. Well see!

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S4cabriofoxone - 12/24/2007 12:26:41 AMView My AgentSpace

+1 Boost

I really like it! This is the first time I've liked an SLK, bar the AMG.

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