Saturday, January 15, 2011

New Mercedes-Benz SLK Offers "Magic Sky Control"

Check out these new photos of the third-generation Mercedes-Benz SLK Class. The newest thing about it? An optional "Magic Sky Control" glass roof that switches from light to dark at the press of a button.


The Sky Control has two modes: In light mode the roof is transparent for maximum scenery viewing; when it’s darkened, the roof offers shade and protection from solar heat. (The standard version of the car comes with a roof painted in the vehicle color; a panorama roof with dark-tinted glass is also available.)


The 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK comes with either a 4- or a 6-cylinder engine. The V6 has 302 horsepower and can go from 0-60 in 5.4 seconds (top speed 155 mph); the four-cylinder is slower (201 hp and 0-60 mph in 6.5 seconds). A 6-speed manual transmission comes standard.

Pricing has not been announced for the vehicle, but expect it to cost near the $54,175 price-tag of the 2011 SLK350. The 2012 SLK-Class goes on sale in the U.S. this summer.