Two versions of the SLK are available for the 2005 model year, the SLK350 and the more powerful, more macho SLK55 AMG.
The SLK350, which replaces the SLK320, comes with a new 3.5-liter V6 rated at 268 horsepower. A six-speed manual gearbox is standard, while a new seven-speed automatic is optional. The SLK comes standard with leather upholstery, a nine-speaker sound system with an in-dash CD player, an antitheft alarm and the Tele Aid telematics system that provides emergency response service or direct connection to the nearest Mercedes dealer.
Options include bi-xenon headlamps that turn with the direction of the car for better illumination around corners and a headlamp cleaning system; a heated steering wheel; a CD changer in the glove box; a DVD navigation system integrated in the radio; adjustable seats with memory function; rain-sensing wipers; a parking assist system; and a tire-pressure warning system.
A premium package includes automatic climate control, rain-sensing wipers and automatic dimming mirrors, variable power steering and the infrared roof opener and garage door opener. A heating package includes heated seats and headrests (see below). An AMG sports package and a lowered sports suspension are available for the SLK350.
In the early days of the fall 2004 introduction of the 2005 SLK, Mercedes will offer the SLK350 Launch Edition, of which only 1,000 will be sold; Mercedes intends to sell about 10,000 SLKs in the U.S. a year. The special edition features premium Nappa leather, exclusive trim and a special equipment package.
The SLK55 AMG (on sale in November 2004) is equipped with a 5.5-liter V8 engine rated at 362 horsepower and 376 pound-feet of torque, paired with the new AMG Speedshift seven-speed transmission. It's easily distinguished by AMG styling cues, 18-inch AMG wheels, an AMG sport steering wheel with gearshift buttons, and comes with an AMG suspension, exhaust and brakes.
SLK models are equipped with six airbags, adaptive front bags that deploy with a force based on the severity of the crash, side-impact airbags that protect the head and thorax, as well as knee airbags. Two-stage seatbelt force limiters, which tighten based on the severity of the crash, are also part of the safety package; we recommend always wearing seatbelts as they are your first line of defense in a crash.
Active-safety features include anti-lock brakes (ABS), which allows the driver to maintain steering control in an emergency braking situation; brake assist, which automatically applies full braking force should the driver mistakenly relax pressure on the brake pedal in an emergency braking situation; and Electronic Stability Program, which helps the driver maintain control in corners by keeping the front or rear tires from skidding.