2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK On Sale In Australia

Continuing its onslaught of new and updated vehicles, Mercedes-Benz Australia has announced local release of the all-new SLK roadster.

Following the confirmation of pricing and specifications last month, the entry-level SLK 200 and the top-shelf SLK 350 are now on sale, with the mid-spec 250 to hit showrooms early next year.

Opening the range, the SLK 200 BlueEfficiency is powered by a 1.8 litre four-cylinder petrol engine producing 135kW.

Fuel consumption for the entry SLK is listed at 6.1 l/100km, while the 0-100km/h sprint is covered in a respectable 7.0 seconds.

On the top shelf is the SLK 350 BlueEfficiency, driven by Mercedes' new 3.5 litre petrol V6. Power is listed at 225kW, shifting the SLK to 100km/h in 5.6 seconds and listing fuel consumption figures of 8.3 l/100km.

When it arrives in 2012, the mid-range SLK 250 BlueEfficiency will utilise the same 1.8 litre engine driving the SLK 200, but producing a healthy 152kW.

All three models are equipped with Mercedes' updated 7GTronic Plus automatic transmission as standard.

Suspension in standard trim is managed by a conventional steel suspension package, although a sports package with harder springs and dampers will be available as an option.

Beyond the sports package, the SLK is available with a Dynamic Handling package, offering suspension with continuous adjustable and electronically controlled fully automatic damping.

Previewed late last year, Mercedes-Benz has also fitted its brand-new Magic Sky Control panoramic glass roof to the new SLK, along with its Airguide draught-stop and Airscarf neck-heating systems.

Pricing

• 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK 200 BlueEfficiency: $82,900
• 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK 250 BlueEfficiency: (Available early 2012)
• 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK 350 BlueEfficiency: $118,900

Note: prices do not include on-road costs.