2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK
Based on analysis of 40 SLK reviews and test drives.
Mercedes-Benz SLK - What the Auto Press Says
The 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK ranks 7 out of 8 Luxury Sports Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 40 published reviews and test drives of the Mercedes-Benz SLK, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
In addition to its surprisingly smooth ride and sports-car handling, the SLK's power-retractable hardtop gives it an advantage over soft-top sports car convertibles and makes for a unique coupe/roadster experience. Still, it falls a bit short on its interior space and controls. Overall, it ranks near the bottom of its class.
The 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK is a fun-to-drive convertible. Its power hardtop gives it all the practicality of a coupe along with the open-air exhilaration of a roadster. Redesigned in 2005, the second generation SLK is described by Car and Driver as the "sweetest-handling Benz ever" and "an everyday please-me machine."
While the SLK's strengths are its quick-folding steel hardtop and luxurious interior, its weakness include a small cabin and little cargo space -- but that's to be expected for this class. With a base price just under $45,000, the SLK may be inexpensive for a Mercedes -- but it still commands a premium. Less expensive hardtops include the Pontiac G6 and Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, when compared to such luxury (and pricey) rivals as the Porsche Boxter and Chevrolet Corvette, the SLK could be a good value.
Mercedes-Benz's smallest sports car comes in several trims. The base SLK280 features a 3.0-liter V6 engine and a six-speed manual transmission, while the SLK350 gets a 3.5-liter V6 and a seven-speed automatic. Though it's not addressed in this review, a performance-minded SLK55 AMG is also available.
- "For what it is, the SLK hits on all the important notes with a standout look, good drive dynamic and luxury amenities that you expect from a Mercedes." -- AutoWeek.
SLK Performance - 8.3 (Very Good)
The 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK offers tight handling that suits its sports-car purpose. "Driving the SLK is loads fun," says AutoWeek. "Power is plentiful in every gear, with passing easily done in sixth gear on the expressway. If the road permits, dial in some lock with the steering, put your foot to the throttle and hang on." According to Mercedes-Benz, the SLK350 can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 5.5 secconds. Altogether, the SLK's performance ranks near the middle of its class. Continue with our full SLK Performance Review to read about its "super strong" brakes. continue
SLK Exterior - 8.5 (Very Good)
The 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK's exterior, with its easy-to-use hardtop, is very well-received and ranks in the top half of its class. "It's a beautiful car, with the long hood, wedged aerodynamic shape, squatty rear end, and raked windshield -- the classic elements of sports car design," says BusinessWeek. Continue with our full SLK Exterior Review to read about how simple it is to lower its top, or check out our photo gallery. continue
SLK Interior - 7.3 (Good)
The SLK's interior is marked by luxurious appointments, comfortable seats, and an impressive array of convenience features. Still, a snug cabin and complicated controls detract from its appeal. Compared to other luxury sports cars, the SLK's interior ranks near the bottom of its class. Continue with our full SLK Interior Review to read about the its cargo storage features, or go to the 2008 SLK Photo Gallery to see pictures of its cabin. continue
SLK Safety - NA
Though the SLK has yet to be crash tested by the federal government or insurance industry, it comes equipped with an impressive assortment of active and passive safety features -- including an Electronic Stability Program and Occupant Classification System (OCS). Continue with our full SLK Safety Review to learn about possible visibility issues. continue
SLK Reliability - 8.0 (Very Good)
The 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). Mercedes offers a four-year/50,000-mile basic warranty. Continue with our full SLK Reliability Review. continue
