2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class Review
Price
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Installment
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2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class at a glance
Looking more aggressive than ever before, the 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class has a plush interior to match the head-turning exterior. The 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class leads the class in ride comfort and refinement while its handling is much improved.
2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class quick specs
| Body Style | Convertible |
| Class | Sports/GT |
| Assembled | - |
| Engine Range | - |
| Fuel Options | - |
| Seating Capacity | 2 |
2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class ratings (overall rating : 4/5.0)
| Styling | |
| Handling | |
| Comfort | |
| Quality + Reliability | |
| Performance |
| Roominess | |
| Running Costs | |
| Value for Money | |
| Equipment | |
| Environment |
Styling
Mercedes-Benz has evolved the compact, neat looks of the first-generation SLK-Class into one of subtle aggression. The facelift in 2008 gave the Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class a new front bumper along with other minor enhancements. Overall, the 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class is still an attractive and head-turning styling effort despite entering its twilight years.
Handling
It must be said that the Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class has improved by leaps and bounds dynamically over its predecessor. The inept chassis of old has been replaced by a responsive chassis that is built for winding roads. With excellent body control and loads of grip, the 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class can take on corners with much enthusiasm. But to rival the Porsche Boxster or BMW Z4, the sharp, accurate steering will require more feedback.
Comfort
The 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class leads the class in ride comfort and refinement, with well-contained noise levels whether roof up or down. It is therefore a more accomplished highway cruiser compared to Porsche and BMW rivals. There are no lack of seating or steering adjustments, while the controls' layout is logical. However the seats need more side support, and the array of similar-looking buttons can be confusing.
Quality + Reliability
Plush materials and first-rate finishing commensurate with the high price, while the dash fixtures and switchgear feel substantial. According to JD Power customer satisfaction surveys, the Mercedes-Benz brand has been faring well in terms of reliability. There should be little problems with the proven engine, but electrical faults on Mercedes-Benz models are not unknown.
Performance
With 184 bhp and 250 Nm on tap, the supercharged 1.8-litre puts on a decently quick on-road performance. The grunt may be sufficient for most needs, but the engine soundtrack is definitely less than satisfying. The standard five-speed automatic shifts smoothly and reacts well to throttle inputs.
Roominess
The 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class is a two-seater convertible, with ample room for occupants and more boot space than many similar cars can muster. Driver and passenger sit in a cosy environment with no lack of head- or leg-room. The wonderful metal roof may have lost its novelty factor, but is still a joy to watch when folding away in 22 seconds. The boot space is of course further compromised with the roof down.
Running Costs
The SLK 200K returns 12.4 km/litre. Maintenance and repairs will be costly as all Mercedes-Benz servicing tends to be. Cars wearing the Mercedes-Benz badge may be expensive to buy and maintain, but the Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class should command the best residual values in the class.
Value for Money
It must be said that the Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class has improved by leaps and bounds dynamically over its predecessor, although both the Porsche Boxster and BMW Z4 are still more involving to drive. For the 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class's hefty price tag, you get class-leading ride comfort and refinement, head-turning looks and a plush, relatively spacious cabin. And of course there is the Mercedes-Benz brand factor, which for many could be the deciding factor.
Equipment
The SLK 200K gets the brilliant metal folding roof, electric front seats with memory function, cruise control, alloy wheels, COMAND APS multimedia system, Parktronic system and bi-xenon headlamps with cornering light among others. Safety equipment includes Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Brake Assist (BAS), two-stage front airbags and head/thorax side airbags.
Environment
The SLK 200K is not “green” however you look at it: carbon dioxide emissions of 192 grams/km, fuel economy of 12.4 km/litre, the fact that the engine will be revving hard most of the time, and the 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class's two-seater configuration (meaning more emissions per person) are not good news for the environment.
Live Life Drive Verdict
Head-turning looks
Ride comfort and refinement
Plush, relatively spacious cabin
Engine soundtrack
Seats lack side support
Less fun than BMW/Porsche rivals
