Mercedes-Benz SLK Model Years and History

Though slated for replacement by the SLC in 2017, for 2016, the Mercedes-Benz SLK250 gets a new, larger engine and becomes the SLK300. Underhood is a 241-horsepower turbocharged 2.0L borrowed from the C-Class. Also gone is the SLK250's manual transmission in favor of a standard 9-speed automatic. Elsewhere, an AMG Carbon Styling package is available on the AMG SLK55.

For 2015, the SLK320 gets the more aggressive body found on the SLK55 AMG. The SLK55 AMG meanwhile, gets active bi-xenon headlights as standard.

For 2014 all of the SLKs get the formerly optional transparent roof panel standard.

For 2013 the SLK350 gets more standard features. Engine start/stop technology keeps the car relatively fuel efficient, while last year's Premium 1 package now comes standard on all SLK350s. That means satellite radio, heated seats and the upgraded harman/kardon stereo are all standard.

For 2012, the Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class has been completely redesigned. Now in its third generation, the new SLK-Class features a large AMG-style lower grille up front, as well as a long hood and short rear end, helping to maintain its sporty appearance. As always, a power retractable hardtop is part of the package, which this year is constructed of body-color polycarbonate, or can be upgraded to a clear Panorama Roof. A host of tech gadgets are available, including an optional 'Magic Sky Control' roof, which uses electromagnetics to change the tint of the roof to suit the passengers' tastes. Two new engines are offered this year, starting with a 201-horsepower turbocharged 1.8L 4-cylinder in the base SLK250. The top-level SLK350 gets a revamped 3.5L V6 making 302 horsepower. Overall styling has been updated throughout, giving it a look similar to the SL-Class roadster, as well as the SLS AMG coupe.

The Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class convertible is largely unchanged for 2011-- although the high-performance SLK55 AMG has been put on hold for the model year, it is scheduled to return for 2010 with mechanical updates.

Not much is new for the 2010 SLK-Class, as it was just freshened for the 2009 model year. There is a new available 17-inch wheel design with five twin spokes, and the SLK300 comes in a special Diamond White limited edition with exclusive paint and sportier suspension. There are still three models for 2010, the SLK300, SLK350 and AMG-tuned SLK55.

For 2009, the Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class roadster receives a freshening both outside, inside, and underneath. Exterior styling is revised to resemble both the Mercedes-Benz McLaren SLR supercar, as well as the company's current Formula One racer. The treatment includes a new front bumper, grille, headlights, and air dam. The rear fascia has been updated as well, with trapezoidal exhaust tips. The interior is also updated, with a new instrument cluster and three-point steering wheel with multi-function buttons. The mid-level SLK350 gets a sizeable power boost, with output from the 3.5L V6 up from 268 hp to 305 hp. A new variable-ratio steering system is optional on the SLK280 and SLK350, and standard on the SLK55 AMG.

There are only small changes to the Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class roadster series for 2007. On the SLK350, the 7-speed automatic transmission becomes standard as part of a 10th Anniversary package which also includes special badging and red interior trim accents. Base prices increase slightly for all three SLK-Class trims, and now range from $43,900 for the SLK280 up to $62,950 for the SLK55 AMG.

There are no significant changes to the Mercedes-Benz SLK roadster series for 2007, after a new, more affordable SLK280 model joined the lineup for 2006.