Mercedes has released pictures of its ‘completely new’ SLK, the third generation of the roadster, which will arrive in 2011 along with new 4- and 6-cylinder engines, featuring ECO start/stop as standard, and fuel economy enhanced by up to 25 per cent.

The latest version of the SLK also debuts a panoramic vario-roof with ‘Magic Sky Control’, which switches to light or dark at the touch of a button.

The new body designed for the SLK retains the characteristic long bonnet, compact passenger compartment and short tail favoured by Mercedes. However, the upright radiator grille is a fresh theme for the SLK, standing “proud and confident in the wind”. The clearly defined headlamps complete the look for the new SLK’s face, which, claims Mercedes, “resembles that of the legendary 190 SL from the 1950s”.

At launch, there will be three new engines offered, all with direct injection and all branded BlueEFFICIENCY. The four-cylinder 1.8 engines in the SLK 200 and SLK 250 develop 184HP and 204HP respectively, while the V6 engine in the SLK 350 draws 306HP from its 3.5 litres, and promises 0-62mph in 5.6 seconds. It also claims 39.7mpg on the combined cycle.

The new SLK will appear in UK showrooms in June. Pricing and exact UK specifications are still to be confirmed.

Text: Charis Whitcombe
Photos: Mercedes-Benz