2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK-CLass

2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK-CLass

Summer is quickly approaching us and with the warm and sunny weather all we can think of are convertibles. Of course, any convertible aficionado has probably lusted after the small Mercedes-Benz SLK; especially true for those without the need or want to carry a lot of passengers or cargo. With an entry-level price of $46,900 for the base SLK300, people expect a lot and Mercedes delivers it.

2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK-CLass

2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK-CLass

2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK-CLass

2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK-CLass

The base SLK300 comes with the 3.0-liter V8 engine that produces 228 horsepower and can propel the small roadster from 0-60 in about 6.1 seconds. That is on par with other models in its class like the popular Porsche Boxter. The entry-level car places an emphasis on luxury in the sun and not speed. For those looking for more of a punch under the hood, Mercedes also offers the SLK350 with the 300 horsepower 3.5-liter V8 and the SLK55 AMG that shoehorns a 5.4-liter 355 horsepower V8 under the hood. As you might expect, this lowers the 0-60 times with the SLK350 making the run in 5.3 seconds and the AMG reducing that time to a cool 4.9 seconds. The irony with the SLK models is that only the base SLK300 is available with the 6-speed manual transmission.

Performance aside, the real reason people lust over the Benz (aside from its flawless style) is for its luxury features that have been top class in the industry for decades. For 2010 the option list is extensive including SmartKey system (with the ability to raise and lower the hardtop), Harmon Kardon sound system, navigation, dual eight-way power seats with memory and heat, iPod interface and AIRSCARF. The last option is probably the most ingenious, especially for those who love to drive with the top down all year round. AIRSCARF gently blows hot air around your neck from behind the headrest area to keep you warmer on cool days or nights. This is a must feature for anyone seeking perfect comfort while enjoying thrill of top down driving.

Bottom line—Mercedes-Benz lives up to their reputation of world-class luxury with the 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK line of cars.

Be sure to check out the in-depth review of the Mercedes-Benz SLK series by clicking here.