You’d have to say that behind the wheel of an SLK 55 AMG is a pretty nice place to be. All of the materials you can see are of an incredibly high quality nature, while the switchgear feels robust and assured in operation.

The roof is operated via a switch located on the central console right in front of the storage area, which means drivers may struggle to reach it without bending in an awkward way. That said, it’s covered in a slick leather lid matching the storage area arm rest, so the cabin’s design does flow pretty well.

We liked the AMG dashboard with its instrument cluster and ‘Racetimer’. It’s just another thing which reminds you you’re in a fast sports car.

The menus for the trip computer and other functions are easy to flick through via controls on the steering wheel.

Mercedes-Benz SLK 55 AMG comfort levels aren’t actually too bad considering the aggressive nature of the car. The seats are supportive and well-bolstered while the ride quality isn’t too bad either, although it can prove choppy on some of the worst UK motorways. Keeping the gearbox in Comfort mode is a good way to calm things down as the car doesn’t feel as ‘on-edge’.

There’s a fair amount of wind noise when the roof is down, but no more so than with other convertibles. Always make sure the fabric wind diffuser is in use though; our car was missing it and the buffeting was fairly intense, especially for our long-haired passengers.

If you’re after a car that will waft you from place to place in a subtle, reserved manner then it’s probably best to look elsewhere. The SLK’s exhaust is loud, and it’s certainly not what you’d call shy and retiring.