Skip advert
Advertisement
Spy shots

Mercedes SLK

All-new mk3 Mercedes Benz SLK roadster is spied undergoing tests

Mercedes is out testing its third generation SLK roadster. The current model has been with us five years now, launching in 2004. However it received a few tweaks last year to bring it up to date, meaning an all-new version is a while off yet. A 2011 launch seems probable, the mk2 echoing the original SLK's seven-year lifespan.

Advertisement - Article continues below

It's tricky to tell what the changes will be, the model in these pictures being a heavily disguised early testing mule. From what can be seen of the front end, though, and especially the headlights, it looks like the new SLK could be little plainer than the current car. Whereas the mk2 SLK is noted for its F1-influenced front grille and pointed snout, the new roadster looks like it will be more akin to the C-class with its square jaw and bigger lights. The side mirrors look more boxy, too, and are door mounted.

Engines wise, the range is likely to be similar to the current one, kicking off with an entry-level four-pot offering around 180bhp and topping out with a ballsy AMG version. However this may differ from the current, 355bhp V8 SLK55 and be more in tune with AMG's new cleaner attitude. The tuning firm has announced it is taking itself out of the German horsepower wars with higher bhp per litre figures and more efficient performance the goal. The all-new SLK AMG could be one of the first cars to benefit.

You can read about the Long-term Mercedes SLK350 on the evo Fast Fleet.

Skip advert
Advertisement

Recommended

Mercedes-AMG’s 1000bhp Lotus Eletre fighter spied testing
Mercedes-AMG electric SUV front
News

Mercedes-AMG’s 1000bhp Lotus Eletre fighter spied testing

Don’t ask and ye shall receive, as development of Mercedes-AMG’s monster performance electric SUV continues at pace
5 Mar 2025
From V8s to solid state: Mercedes’ future powertrains will be diverse
Mercedes EQS solid state battery mule
News

From V8s to solid state: Mercedes’ future powertrains will be diverse

EQS test mule will evaluate new solid state battery tech co-designed by Mercedes F1 partner, while elsewhere in Affalterbach, a new V8 is prepared
26 Feb 2025
HWA Evo is a £730k resto-mod Mercedes 190E Evo II tribute
HWA Evo Mercedes 190E restomod front
News

HWA Evo is a £730k resto-mod Mercedes 190E Evo II tribute

The makers of the Mercedes CLK GTR and the Pagani Huayra R’s screaming V12 have developed their modern take on the iconic Mercedes 190E Evo II
2 Jan 2025
The 577bhp Mercedes-AMG Purespeed is Affalterbach’s answer to the McLaren Elva
Mercedes-AMG Purespeed
News

The 577bhp Mercedes-AMG Purespeed is Affalterbach’s answer to the McLaren Elva

The PureSpeed speedster is the first in Mercedes-AMG’s mythos series of ultra-exclusive specials, featuring a V8 powertrain and an AMG One-inspired de…
11 Dec 2024
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

Porsche 911 Carrera S 2025 review – a 473bhp BMW M4 CS fighter
Porsche 911 Carrera S – pictures
Reviews

Porsche 911 Carrera S 2025 review – a 473bhp BMW M4 CS fighter

A new Carrera S has arrived with supercar-baiting pace and a £120k starting price – is it the sweet spot of the 992.2 range?
25 Apr 2025
Aston Martin Vantage (1993 - 2000) review – Britain's 550bhp hand-built muscle car
Aston Martin Vantage V550 – front
Reviews

Aston Martin Vantage (1993 - 2000) review – Britain's 550bhp hand-built muscle car

One of Aston Martin's last true hand-built models, the ludicrous twin-supercharged Vantage was a muscle car crossed with a stately home
24 Apr 2025
Used Ford Mustang (S550, 2015 - 2023) review – Ford’s V8 muscle car for £20k
Ford Mustang (S550) front
In-depth reviews

Used Ford Mustang (S550, 2015 - 2023) review – Ford’s V8 muscle car for £20k

The S550 appeared ten years ago as a more sophisticated kind of Mustang, in right-hand drive and with the job of tempting European sports car buyers. …
23 Apr 2025