Revealed for the first time here (officially at least), the new Mercedes-Benz SLK will reach Irish showrooms later in 2011. Mercedes is boasting about its new 'Magic Sky Control' folding hardtop, a system that allows you to change it from light to dark at the touch of a button. Of as much interest is the adoption of sharper styling inspired by the SLS AMG and CLS - the SLK is far bolder and more dramatic than its predecessor.
Underneath that more assertively styled exterior is a comprehensively re-engineered car. Not least the V6 version, with the SLK having an all-new six-cylinder engine under its aluminium bonnet. The latest 3.5-litre V6 unit delivers 310hp and a 0-100km/h time of 5.6 seconds. Despite this it returns 39.7mpg (7.11 litres/100km) on the combined cycle.
Those wanting even greater economy will appreciate the SLK 200 with its 187hp four-cylinder unit returning 46.3mpg (6.1 litres/100km) when partnered with the 7G-Tronic automatic transmission. A SLK 250 with 207hp will also be offered.
Conventional steel suspension is standard, though Mercedes offers the new SLK with a sportier set up with firmer springs and dampers. Alternatively the Merc SLK can be had with fully automatic damping as part of the Dynamic Handling package - which also includes Direct-Steer and Torque-Vectoring Brakes.
The interior benefits from smarter materials throughout, while the gun-sight round air vents are very reminiscent of those in the SLS.
Airflow around and in the interior is managed by clever use of a pivoting draught-stop, while those wanting a warm neck can pay extra for Mercedes' Airscarf hot air system for the seats.
Those seats should stay cool in the sun too if specified in sun-reflecting leather, while at night ambient lighting glows in the cabin.
Prices and full specifications will be revealed nearer the on sale date, and we'll be bringing you driving impressions much sooner than that.