Mercedes-Benz SLK review (2012-2016)
In Mercedes-speak, SLK stands for Sportlich, Leicht, and Kurz, which means Sporty, Lightweight and Short. And, for a Mercedes-Benz and those who own one, the SLK is indeed all those things – and maybe even a little more. Even if it is larger, heavier and not quite as racy as some rivals. Learn what it's like to drive in our road-tested Mercedes SLK review
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Pros
- Feels sporty to drive
- Electric hard top
- Diesels are very economical
Cons
- Strictly a two-seater
- Starting to show its age
Interior
Our rating: 7/10
Driving position
It may only seat two but the Mercedes-Benz SLK does so in style. The supportive leather seats make long-distance drives a doddle and the low-slung driving position still allows a good view over that sleek bonnet.
Mercedes is rightly known for the high quality of its interiors and the SLK is no exception. The plastics are smooth and soft to the touch, while real metal is used for trim pieces to add a machined, technical finish.
Mercedes has really considered SLK owners’ road trip requirements. There’s a big glovebox, a central stowage bin beneath the armrest and good door pockets. There’s even a neat map pocket between the seats.
Tech and features
On the equipment side, Mercedes wasn’t that generous with standard equipment. All models come with a DAB stereo with Bluetooth connectivity and a suite of safety equipment including multiple airbags.
A driver alert system, automatic emergency braking and blind spot monitoring systems were on the options list.
An especially desirable feature if you’re going to make full use of the SLK’s folding roof is an Air Scarf option, which blows warm air through the headrests to keep your neck toasty.
Used in conjunction with the heated seats and climate control then every day becomes a roof-down one.
Performance
Our rating: 9/10
Handling and ride comfort
The words ‘sports car’ and ‘comfort’ are not often found in the same sentence. Yet the Mercedes-Benz SLK really is a remarkably comfortable car.
Whether cruising the city and its speed bumps and potholes, taking a motorway trip or coasting along by the seaside, every journey in a Mercedes-Benz SLK is relaxing.
The steering is light, the brakes are powerful and, no matter which motor you pick, the SLK is a swift machine.
It’s surefooted, but the Porsche Boxster or even the inexpensive Mazda MX-5 are more involving to drive.
The Mercedes-Benz SLK’s party-piece roof means that you won’t think twice about going out for a drive come rain or shine.
Practicality
Our rating: 6/10
Boot space
Clearly, you don’t pick a two-seater convertible for its load-lugging abilities.
Still, the Mercedes-Benz SLK will comfortably take a couple of suitcases in the boot, as long as you make sure the roof is up when you’re loading or you won’t be able to get them in or out easily.
Thanks to its smart roof design and climate control features the Mercedes-Benz SLK is a genuine year-round car, not just for sunny summer days.
What’s more, you’re not compromising on safety or comfort levels with this clever convertible.
Running costs
Our rating: 9/10
Reliability
Mercedes’ reputation for reliability and build quality is almost legendary. The Mercedes-Benz SLK is extremely well put together and few problems have been reported.
Fuel economy
The running costs of the SLK needn’t put you off (unless you pick a powerful and thirsty AMG model) as both diesel and petrol versions are reasonably frugal with the SLK250 exceeding 40mpg and the diesel returning more than 50mpg.
The verdict
Interior
7/10
Performance
9/10
Practicality
6/10
Running costs
9/10
The Mercedes SLK’s folding roof is reason enough to buy it, as it makes the car a true all-season sportster. Throw in Mercedes’s quality and exceptional comfort and the Mercedes-Benz SLK makes a compelling case for itself.
Newer cars, including the later SLC model which replaced the SLK, have more high-tech interiors, and some roadsters and coupé offer more boot space, but on the whole, the SLK offers a good balance of head and heart.
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