The new Mercedes SLK 200.
ROADTEST FACT FILE
Car...Mercedes
Model...SLK 200
Mpg (comb cycle)...43.5mpg
CO2...151g/km
Price...from £28,980
Loaned by Esplanade Mercedes, Newport
THE new two-seater Mercedes SLK is, in no uncertain terms, a stunning car.
When I arrived at Esplanade to pick it up for the weekend I was like a kid at Christmas — excited and eager to get started with the delights that lay ahead.
The first thing I noticed was the single-bar grille at the front, next to the unmissable Mercedes badge, which has become a distinctive feature of this model.
I had the SLK 200 entry model, priced at £29,980 but with a few upgrades, which included 18-ins alloy wheels. It has a 2.0-litre BlueEfficiency turbo engine with a fiery 184bhp and a 0-62mph time of under seven seconds. The BlueEfficiency feature means the engine cuts out when the car is idle in traffic or at the traffic lights, reducing the CO2 emissions. It’s clever, while helping to save the planet.
The SLK stands out from the crowd and gets all the attention, with heads turning to catch a glimpse of the machine in a striking red.
Fortunately, I was able to have the roof down for most of the weekend to fully appreciate all the car had to offer. The roadster features a folding metal hardtop and Mercedes has introduced the option of an electric Magic Sky Control sunroof which goes opaque at the touch of a button.
The SLK’s cockpit design with its high-class finish and high-quality materials, puts everything at your fingertips. The instruments, with their chrome-trimmed tubes, blend simplicity and style while giving all the information at a glance.
As you would expect from any Mercedes, the drive is smooth and the handling is responsive making you feel in control at all times.
However, the LED daytime running lights did cause some confusion with one Island police officer, who thought they were fog lights.
The car was a complete pleasure to drive and just oozes quality and luxury.
Trust me, If I could choose any roadster as my next car, I would be straight down to Esplanade to snap up this little beauty.