Mercedes SLK

Our spy photographers were camped out for a week, but eventually they bagged these crystal clear shots of the next-generation SLK! The current car received a facelift only last year – so it could be some time, possible 2011, before we see the production version of Merc’s new roadster, but already this mule gives a big clue to the revised styling.

Gone is the F1-style nose – the front-grille and headlights shown here are far more upright, echoing the new C and E-class. Also visible are new door handles and wing mirrors mounted on the door rather than the A-pillar. And of course – the trademark folding metal hardtop will be standard, too.

Engine wise, the range will start with a four-cylinder petrol unit producing around 180bhp, while a hot AMG version will lead from the front. However, considering AMG’s recent commitment to clean up its act, the 355bhp V8 from the current car is unlikely to feature again – a smaller capacity supercharged V6 would provide similar performance with greater efficiency.