2012 Mercedes Benz SLK AMG spied with less camo

2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK AMG spied 27.05.2011 / Copyright SB-Medien

Two prototypes spied testing on the N?rburgring

More spy photos coming to us from testing on the Ring, this time of the 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK AMG.

Caught here are two prototypes, one in black and one in red, with less camouflage than in previous spottings, given that the standard SLK model has already been debuted.

As for power plants expected, there are three possiblities: a normally-aspirated 422 bhp (315 kW / 428 PS) 5.5-liter V8, a 451 bhp (336 kW / 457 PS) 6.2-liter V8, or a detuned version of the 5.5-liter twin-turbo V8 that normally produces 537 hp (400 kW / 544 PS) and 800 Nm (590 lb-ft) of torque.

We'll just have to wait and see. The model may make a debut at the Frankfurt motor show in the fall.

Mercedes-Benz introduces the SLK 250 CDI
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Wunderkind

If you believe the results of the Sport Auto test of the SLK350, the new SLK failed to improve its dynamics over its predecessor. How Mercedes fuxked it up, I have no idea. The tester noted the (already revised) transmission is a bit slow-witted and ESP was very intrusive and its slalom performance was worse than the previous SLK. For those who hoped the SLK350 or a SLK55 can hang on to the tail-lights of a Porsche Boxster or BMW Z4, FORGET IT! It's pretty pathetic of Mercedes and Michael Scheer (the SLK project manager) if you ask me!

May 27, 2011 5:22 am

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DrPlacebo

it's not really pathetic if you consider the audience of the platform. Consider this: how many slks will you find at a track day event and how many will you find parked outside a spa or salon?

May 27, 2011 5:49 am

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abramo

Also, design-wise, I prefer the previous model : it had real character - this one is no more than "run of the mill" & boring. Nothing "special".

May 27, 2011 7:14 am

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merc55

I have a SLK55 and I agree, I would not trade it for this new one. They blew the exterior look.

May 27, 2011 10:31 am

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merc55

Wunderkind, please how can you compare a BMW Z4 to the SLK 55? The Z4 is ugly.

May 27, 2011 10:33 am

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500lbman

I really like the new design, but I think they are making a mistake by sticking with the big V8 up front. Thsi car is too small for such a heavy motor. A twin turbo or supercharged V6 with 400+ hp would cut down on weight and improve dynamics.

May 27, 2011 4:19 pm

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GMW

I test drove the new SLK 200, 250 and 350 and it was overall a better car than the previous SLK. The handling and feeling of solidness with the top down was better in my opinion. I haven't driven the previous SLK55 but currently drive a C63 and comparatively the SLK handles quite well. I preferred the SLK250 the most and found it more fun on twisty roads, as the turbo 4 cylinder brought the torque on early so it was easily accessible from corner to corner. The SLK350 while sounding better appeared more suited for highway, high speed driving. As for looks, i didn't initially like it as much as the previous SLK but after spending more time with it and seeing one with the AMG pack, I believe I will grow to like it more. Interior wise, it is hands down better.

May 27, 2011 10:41 pm

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