2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class Review

Nobody was surprised when the Mercedes-Benz SLK230 became an immediate hit after arriving here in 1997. It cost far less the larger Mercedes two-seater and had a retractable metal hardtop that provided fixed-roof security or a convertible's open-air driving fun.

Few seemed to mind that the new model's supercharged four-cylinder engine sounded coarse or that its five-speed automatic transmission shifted indecisively. A manual transmission was offered in Europe, but not here. And the car looked bland, especially when viewed from the side. No wonder car buffs regarded the SLK320 as being more of a "cruiser" than a sports car.

But handling was sharp and acceleration was strong after you got past the engine's annoying throttle lag. Importantly, it was the first new Mercedes two-seater in a long time. If the buffs didn't particularly like the car, so what? Plenty of folks were willing to wait months to get one. Mercedes finally offered the car here with a five-speed manual transmission in 1999, when it also could be bought with an optional sport package featuring lower body accents and wider wheels that impoved its appearance and gave it better handlng.

Mercedes knew all along those items wouldn't be needed for several years in America. But it also knew the SLK had to be improved because of the growing number of competitive two-seaters. Mercedes thus has taken a giant step forward with the 2001 version of the SLK by offering a 215-horsepower V-6 from the Mercedes E-Class sedan for the new SLK320 version.
The five-speed manual gearbox has been replaced by a smoother close-ratio six-speed manual for both the SLK230 and SLK320. Horsepower of the supercharged four-cylinder has been increased from 185 to 190, and it's more responsive off the line and during mid-range operation.

A five-speed Touch Shift automatic transmission that can be shifted like a clutchless manual gearbox is a $950 option. Both SLK models look sexier because they've been lowered and have new front/rear aprons, sculpted rocker panels, body color door handles and revised headlights. Also new are turn signals in the side mirrors, better seats, hefty new steering wheel, revalved shock absorbers and larger gasoline tank. A new rear stabilizer bar improves handling.

Standard for both SLK models is Mercedes' Electronic Stability Program, which is designed to restore the car's stability if it senses a skid is coming. Also standard is Mercedes' Tele Aid system, which provides emergency and convenience features, including door unlocking and theft-alarm notification.
The price of the four-cylinder SLK230 has been cut from $41,000 to $38,900, while the new SLK320 version lists at $43,900. Both models are well-equipped, and high-powered Xenon headlights are offered for the first time; they're in a $1,545 option package that also contains heated seats and headlight washers. Other option packages include a pricey $4,135 Sport Package that has wider tires on special alloy wheels and aerodynamic enhancements.

Safety features include side airbags and Mercedes' BabySmart passenger-side air bag deactivation. The SLK320 also has a new five-spoke wheel design, unique air dam, wood interior trim, metal plate door sills, power seats and a telescoping steering column. But the main reason for getting the SLK320 is its smooth, potent V-6, which works especially well with the automatic transmission.

The SLK230 does best with the manual gearbox, but the best SLK model is the SLK320 with the automatic transmission. The smooth, quiet V-6 has more punch and is quieter than the supercharged four-cylinder engine. And the responsive automatic makes the car easier to live with during most driving.

It's easy to accidentally engage the wrong gear with the manual, which has an awkward reverse-gear design. Moreover, the manual is hooked to a clutch that is a pain in stop-and-go driving and causes it to be difficult to smoothly accelerate from a standing start. Fuel economy is in the high teens in the city and nearly 30 mpg on the highway with either engine/transmission combination.
The power steering is heavy, but precise. Handling is excellent. The firm suspension is supple, but the short 94.5-inch wheelbase occasionally causes a choppy ride because there isn't much distance between front and rear axles. Mercedes' Brake Assist feature helps provide fast, sure emergency stops, although the pedal's spongy feel takes getting used to.

The top goes down in just 25 seconds at the touch of a button, although there isn't much trunk room when it's lowered. Doors are long and open wide, but extra effort is needed to get in or out of the low-slung car. There's room for two tall adults, although the seats should provide more side support. The dashboard is nicely designed, except for confusing climate controls and awkward placement of the cruise control stalk. Sun visors are too small, and there's a fair amount of wind noise even with the top up and windows raised.
The SLK still is mainly a fast, comfortable, versatile touring car, whereas the rival Audi TT, BMW Z3 and Porsche Boxster are pure sports cars. However, the SLK320 with the manual transmission comes close to those competitors.

MERCEDES-BENZ SLK

PRICE
$38,900-$43,900
Likes:
Retractable metal hardtop. New V-6. New manual gearbox. Fast. Agile.
Dislikes:
Occasional jerky ride. Spongy brake pedal. Confusing climate controls.