2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK 350 Roadster Review

Some may deem the luxury roadster, including the SLK convertible, a ‘chick car.’ It’s a derogatory term, but that’s the argument. However, the third generation 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK 350 Roadster shatters that stigma—a completely redesigned, ultra-aggressive front end and a new, more powerful 6-cylinder engine, just a couple of new features in the 2012 SLK 350 adds a good dose of masculinity missing in the previous models.

We’re not advocating more ‘manly cars’ here, but nobody will argue with a beefier roadster with more attitude, much like the classic Mercedes-Benz 190 SL roadster from the 1950s. Today, Mercedes is back on track with the completely newly developed 2012 SLK 350.

Mercedes-Benz SLK 350 Engine and Power

Powered by a newly designed 3.5L V6 engine with direct injection, the 2012 SLK 350 puts down a respectable 302 horsepower, going from 0-100km/hr in an estimated 5.6 seconds. Acceleration is surprisingly quick; throw the 7-speed automatic into the Sport Shift mode via steering wheel paddles for a much more spirited drive, hitting the shift points at higher (more pleasant) rpm. Hey, this isn’t an SL 65, but the 2012 SLK 350 easily holds its own.

SLK 350 with Premium Package

Starting at US$54,800 or C$66,500 (reaching C$76,500 starting price for the highest trim), my 2012 SLK 350 found the Premium Package adding Parktronic system, an analog clock mounted upper dash, Airguide with aluminum roll-bar inlay, Airscarf, panoramic vario-roof, SIRIUS satellite radio, and Harman/kardon LOGIC 7 Surround Sound System. The Edition 1 Package (as in this tester) adds to the Premium Package: Comand APS with navigation, AMG 18-in. bi-colour wheels, Keyless Go, designo titan pearl/black nappa leather, designo glacier grey MAGNO paint and aluminum trim.

Mercedes-Benz Roadster Styling: SLS AMG-inspired front end

From parking lots to open roads, the new SLK 350 will garner a great deal of attention and finger-pointing—the upright (as opposed to severely slanted as per the outgoing model) and aggressive SLS AMG-inspired front end are foreign now. The all LED technology headlamps (a first for this model), flowing to a stretched-out hood over the classic roofline into the shorter rear end, render a sporty yet sophisticated 2-seater with pristine proportions.

2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK 350 Roadster Interior

Despite having the most compact interior dimensions, the 2012 SLK 350 cabin feels spacious yet well-appointed and comfortable. The SLS AMG theme continues with four round, galvanized air outlets in the dashboard, adding a huge visual impact. Chilly outside? No sweat, despite the cooler evening temperature; we dropped the top anyway, rolled up the windows, activated the heated seats, and turned on the neck-level AIRSCARF heating system integrated into the seats. It was super cozy, totally brilliant. Most importantly, the rear trunk with carved-out inlets on either end allows for a golf bag. Sold.

Innovation keeps Mercedes-Benz ahead of the game. They were the first to introduce AIRSCARF and the button-activated, retractable hardtop in a coupe (dubbed the vario-roof). And, now, in the 2012 SLK 350, they’ve introduced MAGIC SKY CONTROL—a freaky name for a freaky feature, allowing the panoramic glass vario-roof to toggle between light or dark, offering an open, transparent feel or something more private and shaded (or you can drop the top and blare the heat!).

2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK 350 Roadster Specs