2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class: Road Test
2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class ▼
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- MSRP: $44,150 -$63,200
- Invoice: $41,060 -$58,776
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Our road test for the 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class includes a full evaluation of the 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class help you decide if a 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| SLK350 | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 7 | 8.1 |
SLK350 is the only model made available for us to test so far. It has ample thrust from any speed; Mercedes quotes about 5.5 seconds 0-60 mph. The automatic transmission changes gears smoothly and downshifts promptly to provide passing power. Mercedes pegs the SLK280 at 6.1 seconds 0-60 with either transmission and the SLK55 at 4.8.
FUEL ECONOMY
| SLK350 | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 4.2 |
No opportunity to measure. All SLKs require premium-grade gas.
RIDE QUALITY
| SLK350 | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 4 | 4.4 |
Sports-car-taut base suspension feels firm on expansion joints and patchy pavement, but it never punishes. Severe dips and swells induce a trace of float. No opportunity to test with the Sport Package.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| SLK350 | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 8 | 8.7 |
Any SLK has precise steering, adroit overall balance, and grippy cornering even in bumpy turns. Strong brakes deliver drama-free stops.
QUIETNESS
| SLK350 | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 4 | 4.2 |
SLK's sport-tuned exhaust note is prominent, but it never annoys. The tires rumble on coarse surfaces. Wind noise is modest, top up or down.
CONTROLS
| SLK350 | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 5.6 |
Classy analog gauges are partially obstructed by the steering-wheel rim. Most controls are close at hand, but not all are obviously marked, and the steering-column stalk for cruise control invites confusion with the turn-signal lever. The central screen displays audio and other settings, but it washes out in direct sunlight. Top operation is a one-button breeze that takes 22 seconds. No opportunity to test with the navigation system.
DETAILS
| SLK350 | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 7 | 6.9 |
Cabin materials are top-notch, as expected from Mercedes-Benz. We wish the dressy aluminum trim were available on more models than just the top-end SLK55.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| SLK350 | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 5.8 |
Good shoulder width and head clearance, but tall drivers may want more legroom. The driving position is enhanced by a standard tilt and telescopic steering wheel. The seats are very firm and lack lumbar adjustment, which is a comfort deficit to some occupants. SLK's clever Airscarf softens the bite of chilly weather top-down driving. This convertible's low-slung design means some extra effort on entry and exit. Removable mesh wind blocker clouds rear visibility, but the outward view is good otherwise, even top-up.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| SLK350 | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 0 | .7 |
(No rear seating.)
CARGO ROOM
| SLK350 | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 2 | 2.6 |
The top lowers into the trunk, leaving just enough space for a couple of soft suitcases. Raising the roof frees sufficient trunk volume for a long weekend.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| SLK350 | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 5.3 |
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-Benz prestige.
Total Score
| SLK350 | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 54 | 56.5 |
Total Score: 54
Scores for all Premium Sporty/performance Cars
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