MERCEDES SLK (2011- 2015)

MODELS COVERED:

MK2 version::2dr roadster, SLK 200K, 350, 250CDI, 55 AMG

BY JONATHAN CROUCH

Introduction

The third generation Mercedes SLK is an everyday-usable sports roadster that, like its arch-rival BMW’s Z4, has a neat folding metal roof. Slick detailing, some incredible technology, low running costs and distinctive styling are all part of its appeal. Does this post-2011-era model make sense as a used buy? Let’s find out.

The History

The SLK was Mercedes’ compact roadster model and sold between 1996 and 2015. Here, we’re looking at the MK3 model version. Sure enough, the SLK concept has always been based around delivering a more affordable, more accessible version of the brand’s SL luxury convertible to the wider sportscar market.

Forced to up its game, the second generation SLK in 2004 was a big dynamic step forward, a trend the German brand claimed had continued with this third generation version, launched in mid-2011.

This car had quite a job on its hands, tasked with changing a whole buying demographic. SLKs up to his point had traditionally been bought mainly by undemanding, style-conscious older female buyers who wanted and could afford something nicer than metal folding roof cabrio versions of family hatchbacks like Peugeot’s 308 or Renault’s Megane. But Mercedes has never been a brand to shirk a challenge.

With this car, having a more spacious cabin and the option of a ‘Magic Sky Control’ roof that enabled drivers to switch from light to dark at the touch of a. Enthusiasts meanwhile would, it was hoped, appreciate classic looks borrowed from the iconic 190SL of the Fifties, powerful engines and a clever optional Dynamic Handling Package provided to get the best from them. This SLK range sold until it was replaced by the SLC line-up in early 2016.

What To Look For

Most buyers we surveyed seem to like their MK3 model SLKs. Where we did come across issues, it tended to be with the roof mechanism. The roof/boot space divider (which needs to be locked to lower the roof) can be very insecure and some customers reckon that the latches do not seat in the catch very well. For a few owners, this has caused the roof to jam both when open and closed. This then requires the bootlid to be manually opened prior to a physical wrestling with the divider in order to lock it into place so that the sensors can then allow the roof to work.

In other words, fully test the mechanism several times before committing to purchase. If you encounter problems and the buyer responds with something along the lines of "They all do that sir....", then we’d suggest you walk away.

To be fair, the roof mechanism fitted to this MK3 variant is a lot more robust than that used on previous generation SLKs – and not much else goes wrong. Many will be tempted to give manual cars a wide berth but the good news is that the manual gearbox fitted to this MK3 SLK is a very good unit – a rarity for a Merc. This perception means that there’s a relatively big premium for the automatic versions and keen drivers will be able to source competitively priced manuals if they’re on the ball. The quality of the interiors is also a good deal better than it was on MK1 or MK2 SLKs. Check alloys for signs of kerbing and make sure the service stamps are up to date and that the alarm and immobiliser are functioning properly. Bear in mind too that the paintwork is very prone to stone chips.

On The Road

A BMW Z4 or a Porsche Boxster is a direct, engaging driver’s car, whether you want it to be or not. Having a wider customer base on its books, this SLK must be a little different and given Mercedes’ need to satisfy that wider palette of interests, we think they did rather well with this MK3 model. Interior styling cues from the SLS AMG supercar get you in the right mood from the off and the engines on offer seem to have enough about them to promise reasonably brisk progress.

The whole SLK concept of ‘less being more’ was clearly demonstrated in the previous generation version of this car. That was a model you could bond with most closely not in rip-snorting AMG flagship form, but in simple four cylinder entry-level guise matched to a manual gearbox. You won’t find many SLKs fitted with a manual gearbox - hardly any UK buyers wanted it – which seems a little curious given that we are talking about a sports roadster here. Still, the seven-speed 7G-Tronic Plus auto transmission does undoubtedly suit this car very well with its silky-smooth ratio changes and steering wheel-mounted paddles. Just as well really as unless you choose the entry-level SLK 200, it’s the only option.

Overall

Back in 1996, the Mercedes SLK re-invented the coupe-cabriolet concept for the modern age. In this third generation guise, it continued to do just that. Here’s a car from a brand that perfectly understands its target audience. A car that in MK3 model form, became more finely attuned to its market than ever before. A car offering a level of engine efficiency and technology that makes many rivals from its era seem from a prior generation. If you believed that the two-seat roadster was becoming a selfish and irresponsible indulgence, Mercedes clearly thinks it can persuade you otherwise.