Mercedes-Benz SLK AMG (04-10) - Review

Review by Simon Harris on
Last Updated: 20 April 2009
Last time the Mercedes-Benz SLK received the AMG treatment, it was fitted with a supercharged 3.2-litre V6 engine. The second-generation gets a substantially larger V8. It may be badged 55 but it actually uses a normally aspirated 5.4-litre engine with 360bhp. However, thanks to the light weight of the roadster, it has superb acceleration and pace, making it great fun to drive. The extra AMG body kit and larger wheels suit the SLK shape well and it also has some exquisite detailing inside, while build quality is second to none. It's expensive to run, but as the ultimate SLK, it's a superb convertible.
4 out of 5

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4 out of 5

Safety

The SLK 55 AMG comes with front and side (head and thorax) airbags, traction control and electronic stability control. The first SLK scored four stars (out of five) for occupant protection in official European crash tests, and this second-generation model is likely to perform at least as well. It is also fitted with a roll-over sensor which activates the seatbelt pre-tensioners should the car be at risk of rolling.

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4 out of 5

Reliability

Mercedes-Benz has worked hard to improve its reliability in the last few years, and the SLK is better than some of their earlier efforts like the 2003 C-Class and 2002 CLK models.

Car check problem points

Body

No problems reported.

Engine/Gearbox

No problems reported.

Other

One recall in 2008 for a possible software problem which could cause an emergency engine shut off.