SLK280 to join Benz roadster range

MERCEDES-BENZ Australia has announced the introduction of a third SLK roadster variant, powered by a 170kW/300Nm 3.0-litre V6.

Representing the start of a V6 engine offensive that will see Mercedes release 11 new six-cylinder models over the next few months, the SLK280 will be priced from $99,900.

It will be positioned between the $86,900 SLK200K and $112,900 SLK350, the latter accounting for more than half of the 1000-odd SLK sales since the new model went on sale here nearly 12 months ago.

Like the SLK350, the 280 offers the 7GTronic seven-speed automatic transmission,speed-dependent parameter steering and infrared remote roof operation.

The new 24-valve V6 can take the car from rest to 100km/h in a claimed 6.2 seconds and returns a combined fuel consumption figure of 9.5L/100km.

The wheel-and-tyre package comprises ten-spoke 17-inch alloys wheels on 225/45 R17 (front) and 245/40 R17 (rear) tyres.



According to Mercedes, its new V6 petrol and diesel engines will be the best in their displacement class in terms of power output, torque, fuel consumption and environmental friendliness.

Along with the SLK280, they are soon to become available in E-class and C-class model variants. While Mercedes' 3.5-litre V6, as found in SLK350, packs a 200kW punch to beat BMW's 190kW 3.0-litre straight six, the SLK280's similar-capacity V6 falls some 20kW short of its BMW rival - but delivers the same torque.

In a clever ploy to lead people to believe it's powered by a smaller engine than it actually is, the newest SLK's 280 moniker marks the return of misleading namplates to the Mercedes-Benz range.

"The new, more affordable V6 roadster will enable us to target even more conquest sales from our competitors," said managing director of the Mercedes Car Group in Australia, Horst von Sanden.