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Mercedes SLK 250

We see if mid-range model is the best choice

Mercedes SLK 250 front cornering

By Luke Madden

September 2011

So far we’ve been impressed by the entry-level Mercedes SLK 200 and the range-topping 350, but could the mid-spec SLK 250 be the pick of the range?

On paper, it strikes a good balance. The 1.8-litre turbo four-cylinder engine punches the drop-top from 0-62mph in only 6.6 seconds, while economy can be as high as 42.8mpg – which is impressive when you compare it to the Porsche Boxster’s 30mpg.

Video: watch CarBuyer's video review of the Mercedes SLK

 

But while it has the edge in the green stakes, the SLK isn’t the most involving roadster. Body roll is tightly controlled and it feels agile through bends, but the numb steering doesn’t reward you with any kind of feedback.

The ride isn’t particularly comfortable, either, with the standard steel suspension failing to soak up rough city roads. In our experience, the adaptive suspension is a better choice. On the plus side, refinement with the top up is excellent.

Our model was also equipped with the optional Magic Sky Control roof, which goes from transparent to nearly opaque at the touch of a button. It works well to cool the cabin on a sunny day, but it’s a costly £1,600 extra over the standard roof.

The interior is top-notch, with fantastic build quality and some features lifted from the SLS AMG supercar – including items of switchgear and the stylish jet-turbine air vents.

The SLK 250 is certainly the best all-round model in the range, but no matter which engine you pick, Mercedes’ roadster can’t quite live up to the more engaging rivals on offer from BMW and Porsche.

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Pictures

Mercedes SLK 250 front cornering
Mercedes SLK 250 rear cornering
Mercedes SLK 250 dash
Mercedes SLK 250 badge
Mercedes SLK 250 detail
Mercedes SLK 250 wheel
Mercedes SLK 250 seats
Mercedes SLK 250 detail

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FIRST OPINION

    If you’re looking to buy an SLK, we’d recommend the 250, as it feels punchier than the 200 and is cheaper to run than the 350. It still suffers from the same flaws as the rest of the range, though – it just isn’t as much fun to drive as it should be. While keen drivers will be better off in a BMW Z4 or Porsche Boxster, there’s no doubting the SLK’s talents as a refined and luxurious cruiser.

 

AT A GLANCE

    Price: £35,410
    Engine: 1.8-litre 4cyl turbo, 201bhp
    Transmission: Seven-speed automatic, rear-wheel drive
    Top speed: 151mph
    0-62mph: 6.6 seconds
    Combined economy: 42.8mpg
    CO2: 153g/km
    Equipment: Bluetooth connectivity, climate control, cruise control, leather seats, alloy wheels, Magic Sky Control roof 
    On sale: Now
     
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