2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK300 Norcross GA

December 14, 2009   By Zach Bowman, DriverSide Contributing Editor



2009 Mercedes-Benz
SLK-Class

DriverSide Overview
Mercedes-Benz has plenty to offer in the luxury roadster market. Many competitors out there can offer both the top-down fun of a light and lithe roadster and all the amenities of a luxury-German cruiser, but few manage to combine them as seamlessly as the SLK300. When it comes to the SLK range, Mercedes-Benz has all the bases covered. A firm yet comfortable platform, complete with smooth-shifting seven-speed automatic transmission, a mesmerizing retractable hardtop, comfortable interior with all the appointments befitting a Mercedes-Benz and heart-stopping looks outside. In a nutshell, this car dishes up just the right mix for fun and comfort – perfect for quick day trips or slightly longer rides away for the weekend. Under the hood is a mostly capable 228 horsepower 3.0-liter V-6 engine with 221 lb-ft of torque that can be coupled to either a manual six- or seven-speed automatic transmission. While the SLK300 may lack the performance teeth of some of its muscle-bound brothers, it provides an on-road experience unmatched by just about anything else out there.
 

What's to Like
From the gorgeous hood and front fascia to the sculpted rear exhaust, this car is incredibly handsome. Likewise, the interior offers real wood accents, heaps of leather and quality materials everywhere you look. Plus, the optional eight-way adjustable power seats and four-way power adjustable steering column help to fit the SLK to anyone’s size.
 
What's Not to Like
Though 228 horsepower may seem more than sufficient for a small car, the SLK300 lacks the punch we’d like out of such a sporty looking vehicle. The matter is only made worse by the seven-speed automatic transmission, which can become befuddled under hard driving. That said, if you’re after a cruiser to explore the sloping hills of Napa Valley, this is your ride.
 
The Drive:

DriverSide Driving Impressions
The SLK300 is one of those rare convertibles that can be driven all 12 months of the year, regardless of where you live. That’s thanks largely to the roadster’s retractable hardtop, which phenomenally insulates from wind noise and the cold. Mercedes-Benz has also graced this roadster with heated seats that keep the occupants comfortable top up or down. As a car that’s as comfortable darting down the freeway as it is lunging through the twists and turns of a country road, the SLK300 sports a well-planted platform. The feeling of stability is bolstered by a well-weighted steering wheel and Mercedes-Benz’s power steering that reduces assist at higher speeds. Unfortunately, the car’s hefty 3,200 curb weight comes to bear on its handling during spirited driving.
 
Engine and Drivetrain
The 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK 300 is powered by a 3.0-liter V-6 engine with 228 horsepower and...

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