2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class: Road Test
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2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class ▼
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- MSRP: $46,250 -$60,500
- Invoice: $43,013 -$56,265
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Our road test for the 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class includes a full evaluation of the 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class help you decide if a 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| SLK350, auto. | SLK350 w/Sport Pkg., man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 8 | 8.1 |
No opportunity yet to test SLK55. SLK350 has ample thrust from any speed. Mercedes quotes 5.5 sec 0-60 mph with either transmission. It expects 90 percent to have the automatic. It changes gears smoothly, downshifts promptly to provide passing power as driver demands. Sure-shifting manual makes SLK feel more like a sports car, however.
FUEL ECONOMY
| SLK350, auto. | SLK350 w/Sport Pkg., man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 4.4 |
Manual-transmission test car averaged 22.7 mpg. All SLK models require premium-grade fuel.
RIDE QUALITY
| SLK350, auto. | SLK350 w/Sport Pkg., man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 3 | 4 |
Sports-car-taut base suspension feels firm on expansion joints and patchy pavement, but never punishing; suffers just a trace of float over severe dips, swells. Sport Package delivers sterling high-speed ride control but turns ride choppy on sharp ruts, ridges.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| SLK350, auto. | SLK350 w/Sport Pkg., man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 8 | 9 | 8.6 |
Impresses with precise steering, adroit overall balance, grippy cornering even in bumpy turns. Sport Package improves response in quick direction changes, but unless most of your driving is on unblemished surfaces, it's hardly enough to offset deterioration in ride quality. Braking powerful, undramatic, consistent.
QUIETNESS
| SLK350, auto. | SLK350 w/Sport Pkg., man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 3 | 3.9 |
Sport-tuned exhaust note prominent, but engine never annoys. Tires rumble on grainy surfaces. Wind noise modest.
CONTROLS
| SLK350, auto. | SLK350 w/Sport Pkg., man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 6.2 |
Classy analog gauges partially obstructed by steering-wheel rim. Controls close at hand, but not all are obviously marked, and steering-column stalk for cruise control invites confusion with turn-signal lever. Central screen displays audio, other settings; washes out in direct sunlight. Top operation a one-button breeze, takes 22 sec. No opportunity to test with navigation system. Top-notch cabin materials dressed up by standard aluminum trim or optional wood.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| SLK350, auto. | SLK350 w/Sport Pkg., man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5.6 |
Good shoulder width, head clearance, but tall drivers may want more leg room--seat travel limited by bulkhead. Driving position enhanced by standard tilt/telescope steering wheel. Seats have very firm cushions, lack lumbar adjustment--a comfort deficit to some occupants. Clever Airscarf does soften the bite of chilly weather top-down driving. Low-slung design means a little extra effort on entry/exit. Removable mesh wind blocker clouds rear visibility, but outward view quite good otherwise, even with top up.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| SLK350, auto. | SLK350 w/Sport Pkg., man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 0 | 0 | .4 |
(No rear seating.)
CARGO ROOM
| SLK350, auto. | SLK350 w/Sport Pkg., man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 2 | 2 | 2 |
Top lowers into trunk, leaving just enough space for a couple of soft suitcases. Raising roof frees sufficient baggage volume for a long weekend.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| SLK350, auto. | SLK350 w/Sport Pkg., man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 4.6 |
It may not be the first nameplate mentioned when talk turns to sports cars, but the SLK has enough accessible everyday performance to hold its own in pretty fast company. Of broader appeal is its blend of open-air excitement, hardtop security, solid engineering, and Mercedes prestige.
Total Score
| SLK350, auto. | SLK350 w/Sport Pkg., man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 48 | 48 | 47.8 |
Total Score: 48
Scores for all Premium Sporty/performance Cars
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