The Mercedes-Benz SLK idea predates its larger sibling, the SL, by a mere two years. Back in 1954, marketing strategies were less sophisticated, and the original SLK equivalent was simply known as the 190SL. Mirroring today’s SLK, it borrowed mechanical components from Mercedes’ smaller sedans, sharing minimal DNA with the exclusive 300SL “Gullwing.” Interestingly, it significantly outsold its more glamorous counterpart, appealing primarily to affluent buyers in coastal regions who sought a refined, fair-weather vehicle.
The 190SL produced 104 horsepower from its 1.9-liter four-cylinder engine. Even for its time, performance was secondary to style. However, its attractive design and Mercedes-Benz prestige resonated with its target demographic. The current SLK 250, particularly the 1.8-liter, 201-horsepower variant, can be seen as a direct descendant of that original vision. This connection sparked the idea to rent an SLK 250 during a weekend in Palm Beach. Having spent considerable time with previous SLK generations, including a Nürburgring test in an SLK200, this was an opportunity to assess the latest model and determine if the SLK remained focused on touring comfort rather than outright sportiness.
The as-tested price of the SLK250 came to $50,195, a step up from the base MSRP of $44,875, thanks to desirable options like the seven-speed automatic transmission, 18-inch wheels, and a Premium Package that included heated seats, a Harman/Kardon sound system, and cold-weather features. One could view this price as substantial for a four-cylinder car, positioning it between the more powerful Ford Mustang GT convertible and the significantly more capable Chevrolet Corvette convertible. However, such a comparison overlooks the SLK’s core purpose. In certain locales, like Palm Beach, owning a Mercedes-Benz serves as a subtle prerequisite for social acceptance. In a market where a well-equipped Honda Accord can approach $32,000 and a TLX-badged Accord nears $50,000, the SLK250 presents a relatively accessible entry point into the Mercedes-Benz world, ensuring a certain level of prestige and valet treatment.
However, the price doesn’t translate to an overtly luxurious interior. While brushed-aluminum trim is present, the standard MB-Tex seating surfaces might not impress passengers expecting opulent surroundings, unless you opt for pricier designo leather upgrades. On the positive side, the cabin offers noticeably more space between the doors compared to earlier SLK iterations. While additional legroom would be welcome, the standard “Panorama” smoked-glass roof provides ample headroom, even for taller occupants.
As a vehicle for navigating between upscale hotels and fine dining establishments, the Mercedes-Benz SLK 250 performs admirably. The retractable hardtop is well-insulated when closed and operates swiftly in approximately thirty seconds. With the top down, trunk space is reduced but still accommodates a rollaway suitcase – essentially, if it fits in an overhead airplane bin, it will fit in the SLK’s trunk, albeit just one. The climate control system proves effective even for larger vehicles, and the optional “Logic 7” Harman/Kardon sound system is a worthwhile investment. Its powerful output remains clear even with the top down at highway speeds, making it perfect for enjoying music on a cruise.
Paired with the standard six-speed manual transmission, the SLK250’s low-pressure turbo engine likely offers adequate propulsion. However, with the tested seven-speed torque-converter automatic, a more deliberate throttle input is needed to keep pace with traffic.
In automatic mode, the transmission, adhering to Mercedes-Benz tradition, initiates in second gear. Initial acceleration is leisurely, but once underway, shifts are rapid, particularly the 2-3 shift, which features a sporty ignition cut-and-pop reminiscent of the Volkswagen GTI. A console button enables “manual” control via steering wheel-mounted paddles, but the noticeable delay between paddle input and gear change diminishes the appeal of manual shifting. The transmission’s programming prioritizes fuel efficiency, upshifting to seventh gear at speeds as low as 30 mph, where the turbocharger maintains momentum at a relaxed 900rpm.
Despite the small engine and fuel-conscious transmission, the SLK250 isn’t particularly fuel-efficient. Rental car usage may contribute to this, but even with conscious efforts to drive economically, the observed fuel economy was only 23.6 mpg over 100 miles of relaxed driving. A Porsche Boxster, even with a larger 3.2-liter, 264-horsepower flat-six engine, surpasses this figure. It’s plausible that the SLK350, equipped with a 302-horsepower V-6, could also achieve better fuel economy. Adding to the engine’s drawbacks, the direct-injected four-cylinder produces an unrefined diesel-like rattle at idle. These factors strengthen the argument for considering the 3.5-liter V6 model, despite its higher price. The significant power increase would be a substantial bonus.
Years prior, a Euro-spec, 163-horsepower, automatic-transmission SLK200 was driven around the Nürburgring in 9:19 on a bridge-to-gantry lap. That SLK struck a favorable balance between handling and ride comfort, arguably more so than the Porsche Boxster or BMW Z4 for most drivers. This current SLK 250 leans further towards comfort, perhaps at the expense of driver engagement. The steering lacks feel and feedback, replaced by an artificial heaviness that might convey “sportiness” to drivers accustomed to larger SUVs, but it doesn’t inspire spirited on-ramp maneuvers. The chassis and rigid body shell effectively absorb even significant road imperfections, suggesting potential for firmer suspension tuning and improved steering connection. As it stands, the SLK250 isn’t intended for track use. Its comfort bias mirrors the current SL, feeling larger and less agile than previous SLK generations.
While it’s tempting to criticize the SLK250 for not being more engaging, Mercedes-Benz’s ability to engineer exceptional sports cars is undeniable, as evidenced by models like the SLS Black Series. Mercedes-Benz could build an emotionally stirring SLK, but they consciously chose a different path. For its price point, the SLK250 serves as a faithful homage to the original 190SL. It offers ample style, comfort, and the prestige of the Mercedes-Benz badge, ensuring prominent parking spots even amongst Ferraris and Rolls-Royces. Its shortcomings – lack of outright speed, track capability, and dynamic brilliance – are largely irrelevant to its intended buyers. Enthusiasts might prefer a Porsche Boxster, but for those seeking the essence of the original 190SL – style, comfort, and social cachet – the Mercedes-Benz SLK 250 remains a compelling choice.
