Don't worry, pedestrian crash test standards aren't out of control just yet. This prototype of the 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK is simply wearing the latest Daimler prototype disguise package.
The MB engineers don't seem to care about concealing the top, however, mostly because it appears to be unchanged from the retractable hardtop used now. This prototype looks to be about the same size as the current models too, so don't expect anything more than minor styling changes from this new generation of SLK that's expected to debut next year.
hondacura4 says:
12:00 PM, 02/13/09
Never have been an SLK fan and from the looks of it I never will be.
roar02ram says:
12:17 PM, 02/13/09
That poor car hasn't had a frozen design for more than 18mos with this version.
huyracing says:
05:48 PM, 02/13/09
i hope they just give us the 6.2L V8 already!!
adavis2493 says:
05:57 PM, 02/13/09
I have always viewed MB Convertibles too small, and too expensive. Quite frankly, this one does not seem like it is any different.
Bimmerfan777 says:
02:50 PM, 02/14/09
it looks like a typical Mb nothing special.
carnage says:
12:12 PM, 02/15/09
It'll probably have slightly more aggresive styling, a few minor interior revisions, and nothing else. The 6.2 V-8 is almost certainly too big to fit, and supercharging the current V-8 (hell, even if the 6.2 could fit it would have the same problem) would produce maddening results. It would simply have too much power for that tiny little car; half the people who bought it wouldn't have the driving experience or know-how to reign it in.
That said, the entire engine lineup could probably stand a light freshening. At least another 20+ horsepower and lb-ft of torque across the lineup would be appreciated. Maybe they could redo the 3.0 liter engine and give it BMW-S54 type characteristics? It would give people another reason to look at the smaller engine.