Originally launched in 1997, this new and improved SLK is the third generation to come out the German stable. Where the previous model shared design cues from the McLaren Mercedes SLR, this new model follows in the design footsteps of the oh so stunning Mercedes SLS.

Two new engine models are available, the entry level SLK 200 which makes use of a 4 cylinder 1.8 turbocharged engine and the SLK 350 with a 6 cylinder 3.5 litre V6. There is also the range topper adrenaline creating SLK 55 AMG now available for those who want to unleash their inner racing child in them. Compared to its predecessor, the new SLK is a lot more sporty and stylish in its looks with its smooth and curvy lines as well as an improvement in fuel consumption by as much as 28% for the SLK 350. In addition to the lower fuel consumption, the SLK also has the lowest carbon emissions in its class making it the most environmentally friendly car in its segment.

The SLK 200 boasts performance figures of 135kw at a claimed fuel consumption of 6.5 litres although during real life daily driving this figure is closer to 8.5 litres while the 350 pushes out 225kw at a claimed consumption of 7 litres per 100km. Both the 200 and 350 come standard with a manual gearbox while there is a 7G tronic Plus Auto transmission with paddle shift (gears on the steering) is available at a price. Standard features include 6 airbags, climate control cruise control, attention assist which can detect the onset of drowsiness and alerts the driver. With this being a convertible, Mercedes have also included something called air pockets which is mounted on the headrest just behind the driver and passenger neck and blows out hot air to ensure the driver stays warm even with the top down. The SLK also comes with 3 options for your roof, the regular hardtop, Panoramic vario roof or something Mercedes call Magic sky control which allows you to dim the roof from sunlight with just the flip of a switch.

Now the most important part… the SLK 200 will set you back R555 700 while the SLK 350 is a whopping R734 100 and both prices include a 6 year/120 000km maintenance as standard. In my opinion, roadsters are generally very impractical as they have limited boot space which makes long distance journeys tedious but I think the SLK even though it’s not as quick as its competitors, it is visually more appealing and comes more well equipped with standard features which makes it better value for money.