Used 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class

For 2011 Mercedes-Benz has left the SLK-Class largely untouched, thanks to the fact that the company is planning to introduce an all-new version of the vehicle for 2012. Even while wearing the 2010 model’s robes, the vehicle still offers an affordable way for buyers to enjoy one of the best retractable hard tops in the industry. Though the SLK-Class delivers less raw performance than competitors like the BMW Z4 and Audi TTS Cabriolet, the Silver Arrow brings unsurpassed comfort and refinement to the table – both traits that luxury roadster buyers are sure to admire.

When equipped with the 3.5-liter V6, the SLK350 delivers 300 horsepower and helps to push the German roadster to 60 mph in as little as six seconds. Though the standard six-speed manual transmission is a pleasure to operate, the optional six-speed automatic is no less enjoyable, offering quick and smooth shifts. While the SLK-Class may not be capable of keeping up with more sports-oriented vehicles from Audi and BMW, the little roadster does deliver improved ride quality with considerably less harshness over rough road surfaces.

Mercedes-Benz has built the 2011 SLK-Class to offer excellent top-down driving every day of the year, including those days when the temperature is less than optimal. The company’s Airscarf system provides warm jets of air at exactly neck level to keep both driver and passenger warm, and the comfortable and supportive leather seats are perfect for long drives or quick jaunts down more engaging roads. As with the exterior, the 2011 model is nearly a carbon copy of its 2010 predecessor.

With a low-slung stance and wide footprint, the SLK-Class presents a sporty appearance. Though the upcoming 2012 model uses many design elements from the SLS AMG, the 2011 lifts its lines from the older SLR. With an arrow-like nose and a long hood, the vehicle makes no qualms about its purpose. A refreshingly short rear trunk deck efficiently stows the retractable hard top and a variety of wheel options make for an unmistakably stylish exterior.

Airscarf
The Airscarf seat heating system blows warm air on the back of your neck and shoulders, keeping you warm when the air outside isn’t.

Improved Clear Coat Paint
Improved Clear Coat paint is 40 percent more durable, helping the SLK resist small scratching that appears after repeated washing and waxing.

The 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class comes with an army of driving aides that include traction control, slip control and stability control, among others. In addition, buyers will find dual-zone automatic climate control, cruise control and a leather-wrapped multi-function steering wheel. The vehicle comes standard with 17-inch alloy wheels as well.

Buyers can outfit the 2011 SLK-Class with options such as heated seats, the innovative Airscarf system, hard-drive based navigation, rain-sensing windshield wipers and HID headlamps. Additionally, a number of dealer-installed options are also available.

The SLK300 has a 228-horsepower V6 that feels plenty peppy, but not rocket-ship fast. If you can swing the extra cash, the SLK350 is the way to go. Either way, these are terrific roadsters with plenty of performance, great handling and Mercedes-Benz quality.

3.0-liter V6
228 horsepower @ 6000 rpm
221 lb.-ft. of torque @ 2500-5000 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 17/26 (manual), 19/26 (automatic)

3.5-liter V6
300 horsepower @ 6500 rpm
265 lb.-ft. of torque @ 4900 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 18/26 (manual), 19/25 (automatic)