Mercedes tuning arm AMG is renowned for shoehorning large engines into small
cars, and it’s worked its magic again with the SLK55 AMG, which we’ve driven on
UK roads for the first time.
A short rump and long nose give the newcomer the look of a classic roadster,
and it’s a compact design, although the AMG bodykit and standard 18-inch alloy
wheels lend it some more aggression.
In our eyes, this is the best-looking SLK yet, but we still wouldn’t describe
it as beefy – at least until you fire the engine.
Under the louvred bonnet is the same 5.5-litre V8 as found in new 63 AMG
models, albeit without the twin-turbochargers on the E, SL, and S-Class, as well
as the G63 driven on Page 44. Still, this naturally aspirated engine makes
416bhp and 540Nm of torque – enough to take the SLK from 0-62mph in only 4.6
seconds and on to an electronically limited 155mph.
It does so with a typical AMG soundtrack: the V8 erupts from the quad exhaust
pipes and emits a carefully choreographed crescendo of pops and bangs on the
overrun. It’ll do the same each time the dual-clutch gearbox changes up.
The rest of the package isn’t quite as exciting, though. While the steering
provides consistent weighting, it doesn’t have the same level of feedback as the
new Porsche Boxster.
Leave the quick-operating folding hard-top in place and refinement is
excellent, but stow it in the boot and you can feel the extra weight over the
rear axle. Still, body roll is acceptable and there’s plenty of grip in the
dry.
The key to the SLK55 AMG’s appeal is its ability to be civilised and
efficient one minute and a hooligan the next. Not only is it comfortable, with a
high-quality interior and plenty of standard kit, it can also return 33.6mpg.
That’s mainly due to the cylinder management system which can deactivate four of
the V8’s cylinders below 3,600rpm. And this happens so quickly that most drivers
wouldn’t notice if it wasn’t for the dashboard indicator.
It’s not cheap, but with such a breadth of abilities this AMG model is the
best SLK on sale.
