The new-generation Mercedes Benz SLK was recently launched by the German carmaker; it’s about time we heard something about the top of the line model, the Mercedes Benz SLK 55 AMG. According to the company, this will be the most powerful SLK ever built, and Mercedes also released several details about the car’s pricing in the United Kingdom.
Powered by a newly developed and naturally aspirated 5.5-liter V-8, the new SLK 55 AMG produces 421 hp available at 6,800 rpm and peak torque of 540 Nm available at 4,500 rpm. Mated to a seven-speed AMG Speedshift 7G-Tronic Plus automatic transmission, the engine powers the SLK 55 AMG from 0 to 62 mph (100 km/h) in just 4.6 seconds and up to an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph (250 km/h).
But what Mercedes is really proud of is the car’s fuel economy and CO2 emissions which significantly improved compared to the current generations. Featuring the Cylinder Management System developed by AMG which turns off two cylinders when not needed and the Eco start/stop system which comes as standard, the new SLK 55 AMG gets an estimated fuel economy over the combined cycle of 33.6 mpg, while the CO2 emissions level is at 195 grams per km.
In order to make the roadster have a great road behavior, AMG engineers installed the company’s sports suspension system that features Torque Vectoring Brake and AMG Direct Steer systems. According to Mercedes, this not only makes the new SLK 55 AMG a thrill to drive, but also makes it comfortable and suitable for long drives.
As for the exterior and interior, what can we say, it’s a Mercedes AMG (and this basically says it all). The styling upgrades are elegant and aggressive at the same time, the interior features some trim elements inspired from the car’s bigger brother, the SLS AMG, and the car offers all the safety and comfort features offered by the standard SLK. This include ventilated and perforated brake disks, Nappa leather upholstery, special 18-inch alloy wheels with a five spoke design, Intelligent Light System, DAB digital radio and COMAND Online system with Media Interface.
As for the pricing, Mercedes announced the new SLK 55 AMG will start at £54,950 (around $85,000). An AMG Performance Package that also includes an upgraded suspension and braking system with a rear differential lock will also be available, priced at £4,105 ($6,350), plus an AMG Driver’s Package that removes the speed limiter, priced at £2,755 ($4,260).