Mercedes-Benz SLK

Our verdict

The SLK is the same recipe as the SL (rear-drive, folding metal hardtop, two-seater) but in a slightly smaller portion. Still has an engine range that runs from relatively normal to the completely banzai, still makes a lot of sense.

Comfort

Firm, but cosy over distance. The added security of a well-sorted folding tin-top really helps to isolate you from the vagaries of the British climate and adds a measure of security too. The steering is better thanks to recent upgrades across the range. It feels good, though not as long-distancey as it's bigger, fatter brother.

Performance

There's a wee SLK with a 1.8-litre supercharged engine but the best real-world car is the SLK350 with a 3.5-litre V6 and 272bhp. That gives 0-62mph in 5.6 seconds and a limited 155mph top speed - which should be enough for anyone. Inevitably it isn't enough for everyone though, which is why there's an SLK55 AMG which stuffs a naturally-aspirated 5.5-litre V8 under the SLK's bulbous nose to give 360bhp and 0-62mph in 4.9.

Cool

Pert, small, well-built, there's much to like in an SLK. But there's an air of the Lottery win about it for some reason.

Quality

The SLK feels as strong as it should; if you go for the more expensive variants. For some reason the lower ends of the field start to feel a touch de-contented to make the savings. It makes people get chippy with the options list. Beware. Otherwise it's great - watch out for the subtle '08 revisions - they matter.

Handling

Just like the SL, the SLK suffers from nothing in particular. There's awesome body control roof up or down, the ride is firm but well-regulated and the SLK can keep up with most sports cars if driven well. The trouble is they usually aren't driven well.

Practicality

As usual a decent folding hardtop will eat into what otherwise looks like a pretty decent volume for stuff in the boot. There's ok room for people of six foot and under in the front, and with the roof down it feels positively spacious.

Running costs

The base model comes in at under £30k, gets 32.5mpg and has a 2-percent tax liability. But residuals are a bit sketchy on base cars with manual gearboxes. Much preferred is the SLK350 with an auto. Mind you, that's group 18 insurance and only mid-twenties for Mpg. The SLK55 will stamp on your toes to run; 23mpg, group 19, 35-percent tax. Hmmm.