The Beijing Auto Show kicked off today and Mercedes-Benz is showing off several of their new models including the Viano VISION DIAMOND show car. This chauffeured vehicle makes a big impression right from the start with its black radiator grille, chromed grille louvers, and two-tone exterior paint job. A fine, shimmering gold line painted by hand separates the two body colors of black and diamond white, and a painted diamond adorns the B-pillar. The two-tone effect is repeated in the rims of the five-spoke wheels, and the brakes feature the words “Mercedes-Benz” in gold.
The interior underscores the extravagant nature of the model as well. Luxurious appointments in the rear include a special innovative multimedia unit that allows passengers to choose between a business setting or a comfortable ambience for relaxing.
The show runs from April 23 – May 2, 2012.
Regulation of sunlight intensity in the interior
The windows of the passenger compartment, as well as the rear window and the glass partition between the chauffeur and the passenger compartment, are all equipped with the MAGIC SKY CONTROL system, which enables passengers to change the interior lighting conditions with just the push of a button.
This changes the color of the windows, an effect that is made possible by a liquid in the window glass that reacts to differences in electric current. The chauffeur’s area is completely black in color, the seats and door paneling are covered in the finest nappa leather, and leather also covers the instrument panel, the steering wheel, the gearshift, and the A- and B-pillars. The passenger compartment is entirely in porcelain white, from the carpet and the seats to the safety belts and the ceiling.
Champagne glass holders and an automatic Champagne bottle cooling unit
The passenger compartment features two top-of-the-line seating accommodations equipped with heating, cooling, and massage features as well as calf benches and footrests. Between the seats are cup holders and Champagne glass holders for the model’s silver Champagne flutes, which appear at the push of a button. The side paneling has five bottle holders as well. The Champagne bottle retainer is equipped with a cooling system. Eight diamonds embedded in the interior trim refer to the lucky Chinese number eight and underscore the vehicle’s luxurious atmosphere.
Additional equipment features include the Bang & Olufsen “BeoSound Viano” high-end sound system, which can be conveniently operated via two iPad 2 or iPhone 4 devices. The mobile communication devices can also regulate the interior lighting and control the sound system for the model’s 40-inch screen, which can be used for everything from watching television to surfing the Internet and participating in video conferences. A special app was developed exclusively for this control feature; the devices are secured in a docking station in the center console. The screen itself has a black aluminum frame and is situated behind the chauffeur area. The push of a button is all it takes to lower the screen and the partition. An intercom is available for communication between the cockpit and the passenger compartment. The vehicle is equipped with a W-LAN system that enables Web videoconferencing, among other things.
Mercedes-Benz is showing off their newly premiered 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class, looking as bold and aggressive as it did in the photos. The SL Roadster adopts several styling cues from the popular Mercedes SLK. If you have an opportunity, make sure you head to the Detroit Auto Show beginning January 14th. For those of you that can’t make it, you won’t have to wait long, the 2013 Mercedes SL is set to hit showrooms this spring.
Compared with its successful predecessor, the new Mercedes-Benz SL offers considerably more comfort and sportiness, setting new standards in the luxury roadster class. Added to which is uncompromising day-to-day suitability, which turns the SL into an incomparable all-rounder among sports cars. In short, anyone that talks about the new SL is bound to be talking about the ultimate in passionate, refined motoring.
Dr Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of the Board of Management of Daimler AG and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars: “There are around 900 million cars in the world and thousands of models. But there are only a handful of automotive icons. Our SL is one of them: it has class, it has style, it is the ultimate in comfort and luxury. But it combines all that with incredible sportiness and dynamism. You would struggle to find a car that embodies Gottlieb Daimler’s aspiration more perfectly than our new SL: the best or nothing.”
Lighter and more rigid: sophisticated all-aluminium bodyshell
The new-generation Mercedes-Benz SL takes the meaning of the famous letters “SL” – super, lightweight – literally. Consistent weight reduction is one of the most outstanding design characteristics in the new SL as was the case in its namesake, the original SL of 1952 with its lightweight tubular frame. For the first time Mercedes-Benz has implemented an all-aluminium bodyshell in a series-production model. Only very few components consist of other materials. The designers use the even lighter magnesium for the cover behind the tank. High-strength steel tubing is integrated in the A-pillars for safety reasons.
The new aluminium bodyshell weighs around 110 kilograms less than it would using the steel technology from the predecessor. “The effect is rather as if a heavyweight-class passenger had got out of the car” says Dr Thomas Rudlaff, responsible for the aluminium bodyshell at Mercedes-Benz. “The result is perceptible and measurable. Less weight means more dynamism and less consumption. In other words: the motoring enjoyment increases, the environmental burden sinks.”
The aluminium structure is not only lighter but also proves superior to the predecessor’s steel construction in terms of rigidity, safety and comfort. This is achieved thanks, among other things, to its intelligent lightweight construction with components optimised for their specific task. Thus, diverse processes
are used to make different kinds of aluminium depending on the use the component is to be given: the parts are made by chill casting or vacuum die-casting, worked into extruded aluminium sections or into aluminium panels of different thicknesses. The result: high rigidity, high safety levels and better vibration characteristics.
Although the new SL is even more comfortable and has more assistance systems on-board than its predecessor and therefore does actually sacrifice some of the weight saved through the aluminium bodyshell, the scales show some astonishing figures: the new SL 500 (1.785 kg) weighs around 125 kilograms less than its predecessor. On balance, the SL 350 (1.685 kg) is even 140 kilograms lighter – all thanks to a host of other intelligent enhanced details to reduce weight, which Mercedes-Benz has also implemented in the new SL in addition to the aluminium bodyshell.
Driving pleasure: frugal, powerful engines and agile suspension
Powerful while accelerating, effortlessly superior across all speeds, nimble on winding roads – the new SL provides ample driving pleasure. Apart from the powerful engines, the sportily tuned yet comfortable suspension, which also boasts intelligent lightweight construction, proves outstanding. For instance, the steering knuckles and spring links on the front axle are also made out of aluminium to reduce the unsprung masses. The same also applies to virtually all the wheel location components on the rear axle.
The new SL is available with two different suspension systems: the SL features semi-active adjustable damping as standard. The optional active suspension system ABC (Active Body Control) is available as an alternative.
Both suspension variants are combined with a new electromechanical Direct-Steer system featuring speed-sensitive power steering and a ratio that can be varied across the steering wheel angle. This ensures excellent straight-line stability and, therefore, a high degree of assuredness when travelling at motorway speeds and makes the SL very agile. It also reduces the amount of steering required when parking and manoeuvring.
The new V8 in the SL 500 develops 320 kW (435 hp) from its displacement of 4663 cc and thus around 12 percent more than its predecessor despite some 0.8 litres less displacement. The fuel consumption has been reduced by up to 22 percent. At the same time, the torque has increased from 530 Nm to 700 Nm – a gain of 32 percent. Although the displacement remains the same at 3499 cc, the new V6 engine in the new SL 350 develops 225 kW (306 hp) and delivers 370 Nm of torque. It uses just 6.8 litres of fuel per 100 kilometres, making it almost 30 percent more economical than its predecessor. Both engine variants come with a standard-fit ECO start/stop function. The 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission, which has been optimised in relation to fuel consumption and comfort, also contributes to the exemplary, low fuel consumption. The fuel economy of the BlueDIRECT engines takes nothing away from the roadster’s raciness. Quite the contrary: the SL 350 accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.9 seconds, making it three tenths of a second faster than its predecessor. The SL 500 takes just 4.6 seconds – eight tenths less than the previous SL 500.
Interior: aesthetic, stylish, sporty
The new SL combines its aesthetically honed profile, which follows the Mercedes-Benz tradition, with a luxurious feel. Fine materials, perfectly finished with great attention to detail, distinguish the style and character of the interior.
Compared with its predecessor, the new generation of the SL is much longer 4612 mm (+50 mm) and wider 1877 mm (+57 mm), providing more room for more comfort in the interior, too. Shoulder room (+37 mm) and elbow room (+28 mm) have been increased, exceeding the dimensions normally found in this vehicle class. Clear lines create a formally coherent internal space within this comfortable interior. Generously used wood trim extends from the centre console across the dashboard into the doors, creating a pleasant wrap-around effect. Three types of wood along with two different aluminium trim finishes are available. Perfectly in tune with the roadster’s character, it combines the unpretentious atmosphere of a high-performance sports car with a comfortable, stylish ambience one comes to expect in a luxurious touring car.
Design: classic SL proportions
The designers have brought the latest generation of the SL unmistakably to life on the basis of tradition but added new perspectives and visions. The result is a stylishly sporty and elegant luxury sports car with the classic hallmark SL balanced proportions: the long bonnet gives way to a compact passenger compartment that is set well back. A wide, powerful rear end giving the impression of raciness provides the finishing touch. A handful of elaborately styled lines define the powerfully sculpted and yet calm surfaces of the flanks. Finely worked details, a striking rear end as well as ventilation grilles with chromed fins from the dynamic traditional Mercedes-Benz design heritage visually emphasise the SL legend.
An upright classic sports car radiator grille clearly marks out the new SL visually as a prestigious member of the current Mercedes-Benz sports car family. The centrally positioned star is a contemporary reinterpretation of the famous trademark, which now extends into the centre section with its organically flowing contours.
Dynamically slanting headlamps set well to the outside flank the striking front end and give the new roadster its own unmistakable face. The headlamps come as standard with the Intelligent Light System (ILS). With five different lighting functions that are tailored to typical driving and weather conditions, and are activated depending on the driving situation, they offer the driver a much better illuminated field of vision. The striking sidelights and the horizontal strip of the daytime running lamps in the far ends of the bumper feature LED technology.
Vario-roof: MAGIC SKY CONTROL as an option
The sixth generation of the SL also offers a vario-roof that can be retracted into the boot using an electrohydraulic mechanism to save space, which converts the SL in a few seconds into a roadster or a coupé, depending on the driver’s wishes and the weather. Unlike its predecessor, three versions are available for the new SL: painted, with glass roof or with the unique panoramic vario-roof with MAGIC SKY CONTROL. The transparent roof switches to light or dark at the push of a button. When light it is virtually transparent, offering an open-air experience even in cold weather. In its dark state the roof provides welcome shade and prevents the interior from heating up in bright sunlight. The frame of the three roof versions is made of magnesium, making the roofs around six kilograms lighter than the roof on the predecessor, thus providing a lower centre of gravity for the vehicle and, in turn, better agility.
The engineers have refined the operating mechanism for the roof and boot lid. It now takes less than 20 seconds to open or close the roof completely.
Aerodynamics: new standards
The design of the new SL not only meets high aesthetic demands but it also boasts exemplary aerodynamic qualities.As such, the roadster merits best marks in its segment in four important disciplines:
With two innovations, the new SL remains true to its tradition as technological trendsetter:
Both innovations are part of the extensive standard equipment of the new SL.
HANDS-FREE ACCESS: ‘kick’ to open
The HANDS-FREE ACCESS system is another Mercedes-Benz innovation which provides hands-free, contactless operation of the boot lid. The driver simply moves their foot in the vicinity of the rear bumper. Mercedes-Benz is the only car maker to offer a system which not only automatically opens the boot lid but closes it as well.
The safest roadster
Thanks to the crash-optimised aluminium structure, standard-fit PRE-SAFE® and assistance systems on the same high level as the S-Class, the SL is the world’s safest roadster. The rigid aluminium bodyshell forms a sturdy passenger compartment along with precisely defined deformation zones in the front and rear ends. In the event of the vehicle overturning, A-pillars made out of a mix of steel and aluminium and two roll-over bars protect the passenger compartment. The restraint systems including the two-stage driver and front passenger airbags have been further developed. A headbag integrally covers the side head-impact area. An additional thorax airbag in the seat backrest can protect the upper body in the event of a side impact. Another new feature is the crash-responsive NECK-PRO head restraints developed by Mercedes-Benz which are fitted as standard in the SL. An active bonnet and a front end with a large, yielding impact area help ensure pedestrian protection.
A safety highlight is the unrivalled anticipatory occupant protection system PRE-SAFE® developed by Mercedes-Benz which is fitted as standard. If the system detects a serious risk of an accident, it reflexively activates precautionary protective measures for the vehicle occupants, so that the seat belts and airbags are able to fulfil their protective function to the full during an impact.
Additional post-crash measures supplement the integral safety concept and facilitate rapid assistance: regardless of the severity of the impact, the doors can be automatically unlocked after an accident, the interior lighting activated and the side windows lowered by 50 millimetres to ventilate the interior more effectively. The steering wheel can also be moved upwards.
Standard: ATTENTION ASSIST AND ADAPTIVE BRAKE
In the new SL too, a unique combination of driver assistance systems helps prevent accidents. These include the standard-fit drowsiness detection system ATTENTION ASSIST and the ADAPTIVE BRAKE. The latter features ABS, acceleration skid control (ASR) and active yaw control, and offers comfort and convenience functions in addition to safety functions.
The ADAPTIVE BRAKE works in conjunction with the equally adaptive brake lights. In emergency braking situations, it warns vehicles behind with flashing brake lights.
PRE-SAFE® Brake: autonomous partial and emergency braking in response to a serious risk of a rear-end collision
As an option DISTRONIC PLUS proximity control and PRE-SAFE® Brake, which is already well proven in other Mercedes-Benz models, are available. Both work on the basis of the same radar sensors. Once a serious risk of a rear-end collision is detected, the PRE-SAFE® Brake warns the driver initially and can initiate autonomous braking if the driver fails to react, and so either prevent the accident or at least mitigate its severity. PRE-SAFE® can also activate occupant protection measures.
Active Parking Assist: automatically manoeuvred into a parking space
The Active Parking Assist is new in the SL. Using ultrasound sensors it can identify parking spaces and automatically steer the vehicle into the space while parking.
Infotainment: COMAND with internet access
Even in the entry-level variant, the new Mercedes-Benz SL comes with the “Cockpit Management and Data System” COMAND. Functionality includes Bluetooth telephony along with simpler operation of the car phone. COMAND Online with internet access and DVD changer is also available as an option. It provides unlimited web browsing while the vehicle is stationary along with high-speed access to a Mercedes-Benz online service – for instance requesting a weather report or a special destination search. There is also the option of sending individual destinations and routes via Google Maps to the vehicle. For the first time, Mercedes-Benz is also offering new apps for the new SL: in addition to a free news app and a Facebook app, there are optional Mercedes-Benz apps for share prices and a car park finder. A Yelp app to look for restaurants is available for the US market.
Both COMAND versions feature a high-resolution TFT colour display with 17.8 cm diagonal (800 x 480 pixels) at the side next to the instrument cluster. This screen arrangement prevents the driver from being distracted as far as possible.
Orders for the new SL commenced on 15 December 2011. The prices including 19% VAT are as follows:
To coincide with the launch of the new SL, Mercedes-Benz will also be offering a special-edition model, the “Edition 1”, for a limited period. The “Edition 1” is superbly equipped and comes as standard with a panoramic vario-roof, AMG bodystyling, sports suspension, AMG 19-inch light-alloy wheels, designo nappa leather with contrasting topstitching, AIRSCARF, heated seats, electric draught-stop, ambient lighting and Harman/Kardon® Logic7® surround sound system and much more. The designo crystal silver magno special paintwork is available exclusively for the “Edition 1”, along with trim in wave or deep white aluminium. Depending on the basic model, the extra charge is between 19,028.10 euros and 22,598.10 euros.
Arriving in the U.S. and hitting showrooms this month are the all new 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK roadsters. The new-generation 2012 SLK roadsters represent the third generation of the first sports car offering an automatic retractable hardtop. The new SLK boasts a wide SLS AMG-inspired front grille with a long hood as well as relatively wide doors and a short rear section. The SLK convertible is available in U.S. showrooms this month with a suggested retail price starting at $54,800 (excluding D&D).
MAGIC SKY CONTROL
The standard convertible roof panel is made of body-color polycarbonate, and an optional Panorama Roof features a see-through panel. Also optionally available is a MAGIC SKY CONTROL roof, in which the tinting of the panel can be changed by the occupants, using the same electrochromic technology as automatic dimming mirrors. Sandwiched between two layers of glass, a chemical film called a matrix polymer holds oblong nano particles that line up uniformly when electrical current is applied, allowing light to pass through. When the electrical current is turned off (via a button above the rearview mirror), the nano particles disperse randomly, reducing light and tinting the roof panel.
New Direct-Injection Engines
The 2012 SLK line debuts with the SLK350 model, powered by a new 3.5-liter V6 engine that features direct injection and multi-spark ignition. With even more power and better fuel economy than its predecessor, the new SLK engine generates 302 horsepower and 273 lb.-ft. of torque. Early next year the SLK250 will join the line-up featuring a new turbocharged 1.8- liter direct injection four-cylinder engine that produces 201 hp and 229 lb.-ft. of torque.
New Transmission
The 2012 SLK line features a new transmission with a more advanced torque converter lockup clutch that provides even better fuel mileage, more responsive driving, quieter operation and increased durability. The new transmission is also designed to work best with a new type of low-viscosity ATF transmission fluid – colored blue instead of the usual red. Together with new planetary gears, bearings and internal seals, the “FE-ATF” fluid provides less friction and improved fuel mileage.
ATTENTION ASSIST
The SLK comes standard with the innovative “ATTENTION ASSIST” system, which couples a steering movement sensor with intelligent software that can identify the erratic steering corrections drivers make as they begin to get drowsy. When the system senses drowsiness, a warning message appears in the instrument cluster, and the driver is also alerted by a display that says, “Time for a rest!” Sophisticated enough to disregard sporty driving, the system works between 50 and 100 mph. Elegant in its simplicity, ATTENTION ASSIST essentially adds new computer software to existing sensors.
The First Retractable Hardtop in Modern Times
Spearheading a trend that’s still changing the auto industry, the latest SLK is best known for its distinctive retractable hardtop. With the top up, it’s a quiet, weather-tight coupe – push a button, and about 20 seconds later, the car is topless. Thanks to its pivoting rear window, the folded roof of the SLK takes up relatively little trunk space. Like the retractable hardtop of the larger SL model, the rear window of the SLK pivots to match the curvature of the top as it’s being lowered.
AIRSCARF and AIRGUIDE
An optional AIRSCARF system can extend the open-air driving season into the cooler months. Built into the seatbacks of the SLK, the neck-level heating system blows warm air from the driver and passenger-seat head restraints, allowing occupants to cruise comfortably with the retractable hardtop open in cooler weather. AIRSCARF even compensates automatically for changes in vehicle speed.
A standard fabric air deflector mounts to the SLK roll bars, helping to reduce air buffeting. Going a step further, an optional AIRGUIDE wind deflector mounts to the back of the roll bars. Consisting of two Plexiglas panels, the wind deflectors can be adjusted independently by the driver and front passenger.
The all new 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK Roadster made its official U.S. Debut at New York’s Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week. The scene at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week heated up as fans got their first glimpse of the red 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK roadster. Lincoln Center, the heart of the most anticipated runway shows with more than 80 designers presenting their Fall 2011 collections including Diane von Furstenberg, Carolina Herrera, Vera Wang, Michael Kors, Derek Lam, Tommy Hillfiger, Prabal Gurung, Nicole Miller, Charlotte Ronson, Tory Burch, and Betsey Johnson was the location for the roadster’s debut.
“With temperatures hovering in the mid 20s on the Upper West Side of Manhattan, it’s not a stretch to believe everyone is fantasizing about warmer weather,” said Lisa Holladay, manager of brand experience marketing for Mercedes-Benz USA. “The new SLK design takes the convertible experience to new heights and it will resonate with everyone watching the hottest styles on the runway while dreaming of their next adventure under balmy, sunny skies.”
The new SLK is one of two car displays in the tent lobby of Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week and draws attention to its new design through a photo op experience called “On the Scene.” Fashion fans can get up-close and personal with the SLK and have their picture taken right in the heart of the action of Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week. Each day fashion fans with the right look can strike a pose for the chance to end-up in the print edition of The Daily, which is handed out each day at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week.
Beyond the SLK, the display is featuring design elements which bring to life the glitterati of Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week to create the ultimate scene. Life size illustrations of windblown beauties by Scandinavian fashion Illustrator Laura Laine and the sought after invisible shoes launching this February by Andreia Chaves, a Brazilian footwear designer.
The 2012 SLK is going on sale this summer. It combines sporty handling with stylish comfort that culminates into a striking car design that is suitable for everyday driving. A unique series of safety equipment makes the SLK a leader in its segment. Standard equipment on the vehicle includes, among other features, the ATTENTION ASSIST drowsiness detection system. Mercedes-Benz is also the world’s first automotive manufacturer to offer the panoramic vario-roof with MAGIC SKY CONTROL as an optional extra on the SLK. With this innovation, the transparent glass roof of the SLK can be darkened in a matter of seconds at the touch of a button.
The all-new SLK-Class, one of the most exciting and successful sports cars ever built, is entering its third generation. The 2012MY roadster takes driving pleasure and open-air enjoyment to the next level by blending nimble handling with stylish comfort, striking sports-car design, everyday drivability, top performance and exemplary efficiency. In addition, the 2012 SLK-Class is proud to present the world premiere of the panorama vario-roof with MAGIC SKY CONTROL, which switches between light and dark transparency at the touch of a button. Exemplary efficiency and athletic flair come courtesy of powerful new 4 and 6-cylinder engines With superb levels of performance, they are more fuel efficient than their predecessors and with unique new safety equipment the 2012 SLK-Class sets the new standard in this segment. With its wealth of technical innovations, the SLK is once again the benchmark in its class. The 2012 SLK-Class goes on-sale in the U.S. this summer.
“The new SLK embodies the role of the trend-setter like no other car”, says Dr. Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of the Board of Management of Daimler AG and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars. “I am convinced that with its passionate design, its high-quality interior and its modesty at the fuel station it will continue to provide an enormous amount of fun on the road in future, too, consolidating its status as a cult roadster.”
Innovations are part of the successful history of the Mercedes-Benz SLK:
In 1996, the first generation caused a sensation with the vario-roof, which transformed the wide-open roadster into a fixed-roof coupe at the touch of a button in just a few seconds.
The second generation placed the warm AIRSCARF around the neck and shoulders of the occupants as needed, ensuring open-top enjoyment even in cooler temperatures.
Now the third generation presents a unique highlight – the world premiere of the panorama vario-roof with MAGIC SKY CONTROL, which can be quickly switched to light or dark transparency at the touch of a button.
The new Mercedes-Benz SLK unites premium comfort and high-quality equipment and appointments with an especially athletic flair. At the same time the new roadster is the most fuel efficient in its class matched with segment-leading safety. All-weather driving enjoyment – open or closed, during weekends or the daily commute – is firmly anchored in the SLK’s genes.
Timeless aesthetics embody hallmark sports-car sensuality
The designers have tailor-made a body for the new SLK that emphasizes its classic roadster proportions and puts them in the spotlight with a thrilling result. Behind the long hood is a compact passenger compartment and a short rear overhang. The SLK will tempt potential customers with these key attributes that characterize all the classic roadsters from Mercedes-Benz.
The first eye-catching feature is an upright radiator grille that stands proud and confident in the wind and bears the new Mercedes-Benz brand look. The grille emphasizes the long and well-proportioned hood, and with its light-catching contours it already hints at the roadster’s dramatic qualities. The wide radiator grille bears the Mercedes-Benz star in a prominent central position and displays a powerfully contoured chromed fin at the front. The clearly defined headlamps complete the look of the new SLK’s face and resemble that of the legendary 190 SL from the 1950s, which is regarded by many as being the original “SLK”. However the designers did not just focus on the past; with the new SLK’s front end they also intentionally created a close visual link with the new Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG “gullwing model” and the new CLS.
The impressive result of this meticulously detailed work is that in spite of the more striking, steeper front and larger frontal area, the Cd value has been cut to just 0.30 – a brilliant achievement (the predecessor model’s Cd value was 0.32).
The timeless, classic shape of the side profile with the classic roadster proportions embodies aesthetics of the highest caliber and is a visual cue to the sportiness and driving pleasure in store. Fine details show the care that has been taken by the Mercedes-Benz designers. For example, a molding conceals the trunk joint, so that the side line cannot get in the way, as it usually does with similar roof designs. The ventilation grilles in the front fenders with a chromed fin are reminiscent of the famous Mercedes-Benz roadsters of the 1950s. In the new SLK they form the perfect starting point for a feature line, which flows to the muscular rear fender, using light and shadow to add style and timeless aesthetics to the sides. Meanwhile the upper edge of the wide headlamps – which for the first time boast all-LED technology – also appears to flow into the feature line.
Interior with style and pure good looks
Despite the most compact dimensions in its class, the 2012 SLK has generous interior dimensions. To achieve this, the designers have developed interior appointments that offer the driver and passenger the highest degree of quality and pure precision. The interior is characterized by stylish sportiness and genuine high-quality materials which have been processed with perfect precision and skilled craftsmanship. Standard brushed aluminum trim covers the center console; wood trim can be ordered as an option in high-gloss dark brown walnut. Four round, metallic air outlets integrated in the dashboard emphasize that this model truly belongs to the Mercedes-Benz sports car family, their shape being a nod to those in the SLS.
The SLK’s generous round dials are astride a display for the onboard computer. The color display for the communications and entertainment functions is housed in the center of the dashboard, and is easily read by both the driver and passenger.
Other high-quality pieces of equipment include a multifunction sports steering wheel with a flattened bottom section and a thick leather crown, plus available sun-reflecting leather that noticeably reduces seat temperature, ambient lighting
Unique equipment: MAGIC SKY CONTROL
For the first time Mercedes-Benz is offering a choice of three variants of the lightweight-construction vario-roof for the new SLK: in just a few seconds this feature transforms the roadster into a coupe with a “fixed” roof at the touch of a button – and vice versa:
Innovative AIRGUIDE wind-stop system
A comfortable alternative to the conventional wind-stop is a new pivoting wind-stop for the 2012 SLK, invented by Mercedes-Benz aerodynamics engineers. It consists of pivoting transparent plastic layers attached to the back of the roll bars. The driver or passenger can swing them to the center of the vehicle in an instant, thus taming turbulent air flow.
Spirit and efficiency
There will be two models of the 2012 SLK available in its first year, both powered by direct-injection engines. The completely redesigned V6 engine in the SLK350 develops 302 hp from its 3498 cubic-centimeter displacement, using this power to accelerate in 5.4 (est.) seconds from 0 to 60 mph (top speed 155 mph). Its fuel Later on in the model year, the SLK250 goes on-sale with a four-cylinder engine developing 201 hp from a displacement of 1796 cubic centimeters.
The SLK250 is equipped as standard with a 6-speed manual transmission and consumes an estimated 27 mpg (combined). From a standstill it reaches 60 mph in 6.5 seconds, and it has a top speed of 155 mph.
Suspension for the closest relationship with the road
A sports suspension with firmer springs and dampers ensures a sporty driving experience. Additionally the Direct-Steer system offers more handling and agility while also reducing the amount of physical effort required when parking.
During spirited driving, the Torque Vectoring Brakes produce a defined rotational movement about the vertical axis of the vehicle in fractions of a second through selective brake actuation at the rear inside wheel. This results in the SLK stabilizing without any compromises, and it steers into a bend precisely and under full control.
Clever use of materials and high levels of safety
The new SLK’s bodyshell has been further refined, with the hood and fenders now made of aluminum.
The 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK also sets new benchmarks in terms of safety. The third generation of this icon will make use of a whole host of the latest assistance systems to support the driver, including the drowsiness detection system ATTENTION ASSIST, developed by Mercedes-Benz and fitted as standard equipment. Available through special order is DISTRONIC PLUS with PRE-SAFE¨ Brake, which can autonomously apply the brakes in the event of an impending safety requirements.
Optionally available is the Lighting Package that not only provides headlamp cleaning but cornering and active light functions.
The 2012 SLK-Class makes its U.S. showroom debut in summer 2011.
Thanks to a promotional video, that was more than likely leaked onto the web, the 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK has been fully unveiled.
The YouTube video has already been pulled, (UPDATE: A new video was found by another one of our readers, thanks Ben. Watch the video below.) but our faithful reader Borwin sent us several screen shots that allow you an in depth look at the all new Mercedes SLK. On the exterior, we can see the SLS AMG styling with integrated trunk-lid spoiler and LED taillights, front quarter vents and adaptive headlights with LED daytime running lights. If adding on the AMG package, you can have a revised front fascia with LED fog lights and AMG wheels with cross-drilled brakes.
Like the SLS, the 2012 SLK has a prominent center console and round air vents. Additnional interior features include sun reflective seasts, draft guard system with is integrated into the roll bars and last but not least, a dash-mounted clock.
As we reported earlier, orders for the new Mercedes-Benz SLK are expected to start with three engine options available to choose from. To start, the SLK 200 BlueEFFICIENCY with 184 hp and 270Nm available (€ 38,650 base price, 6.4 liters / 100), the SLK 250 BlueEFFICIENCY with 204 hp (310Nm – € 44,200, 6.2 litres/100km) and the SLK 350 BlueEFFICIENCY with 306 PS (370 nm – € 52,200, 7.1 liters / 100km) to choose from.
We expect the options list to include the MAGIC SKY CONTRO roof, COMAND Online with internet access, Airscarf and Harman Kardon Audio.
With all the additional leaks of the new SLK, we continue to believe the first introduction will be in January at the North American International Auto Show.
In the legendary Death Valley, on the border between California and Nevada, the thermometer soars to over 50 degrees Celsius during the summer. But the Mercedes-Benz test team considers these exceptional thermal conditions to be ideal.
In the middle of a rocky, scarcely frequented parking area, they have positioned three prototypes, one of which is the SLK, due to celebrate its world premiere next year. The next generation of the successful roadster is fitted with a glass roof which Mercedes-Benz will be offering – the world’s first automotive manufacturer to do so – as an optional extra in the new SLK. Known as the MAGIC SKY CONTROL panoramic vario-roof, this technical marvel boasts a unique level of versatility, as its name suggests: when open, it creates an intense feeling of being in touch with nature which is typical of a roadster, and being transparent it still provides an open-air feeling even in poorer weather. Yet it also features another unusual highlight: the transparent glass roof can be darkened on demand in a matter of seconds. As such, by optionally affording shade and a unique ambience, it helps to ensure a pleasant wellness atmosphere in the interior.
The luggage compartment is almost fit to burst with electronic measuring equipment. Dozens of cables trail towards the front, beneath the bonnet, into the interior and onto the innovative roof. This is the last rigorous operational and endurance check, in the severest of environmental conditions which a future SLK driver is ever likely to encounter anywhere in the world. During its development, the MAGIC SKY CONTROL panoramic vario-roof has already successfully endured hundreds of test hours, including sessions in the sun simulation laboratory and on various test rigs. Last winter, the future SLK and the novel panoramic roof passed the test programme in the cold arctic conditions close to the polar circle with flying colours – and that was at temperatures below minus 30 degrees. Now it’s time to turn up the heat.
To ensure that verifiable and reliable measurements can be guaranteed, the measurement technicians gather their equipment from their black van and set everything up. Then they make their adjustments under the blazing sun. The centrepiece of their equipment is a so-called star pyranometer. It provides extremely accurate measurements of the energy generated by the sunlight to which the prototypes in this bleak parking area in Death Valley are being subjected, without any shade. At ten o’clock in the morning, with a clear sky, the device’s display is already showing a good 800 W. And it is climbing. Shortly after midday it will exceed the 1000 W mark. It’s almost impossible to go any higher. In the meantime, a light cloudy mist passes through briefly, barely discernible to the eye. Yet the intensity of the sunlight immediately drops a good 200 W. The test technicians have hardly noticed this change, yet the star pyranometer reacts immediately.
Of course clouds are something of a rarity in the height of summer in Death Valley. Generally the technicians allow the prototypes of the SLK to heat up in the blazing sun for four hours each day. They then continuously record the data from the unerring star pyranometer to gather base values, so that later the measurement results can be correctly compared against each other.
Their main attention is also turned to other measurements, however. Sensors are distributed throughout the entire vehicle. That morning, the technicians installed eight new sensors in the panoramic roof alone. These sensors painstakingly record every variation in temperature, make any possible stresses in the glass visible, and monitor the load values and responses of the electronic components. Everything has to work just as smoothly and reliably at temperatures above 50 degrees as it does at minus 40 degrees.
After four hours beneath the blazing sun, the test crew leaves Death Valley and heads off in the direction of Daylight Pass, travelling through a bizarre landscape which is constantly changing: solidified mud deposits form mountains which are then gnawed away by the powers of erosion.
A chain of mountains crumbles, and sandstone returns to sand. “Bleak, sterile mountains and blinding salt flats stare back at us”, noted Lewis Manly in 1849, when a Mormon trek had to wait 25 days on the valley floor for help to arrive. Later, an accompanying pastor’s wife wrote: “We have walked through the valley of death”, and with these words gave the valley its name.
On arrival at the test support centre in Beatty, located around 1200 metres higher up, it is comparatively cool: the thermometer here shows a moderate 40 degrees Celsius. And now it’s time to take stock of the day’s results. The collected data have to be sorted out and transferred to laptops. Today everyone is satisfied with the results. This means that the measurement results from each individual sensor have met all expectations. There were no surprises, as expected.
This has not always been the case. As with any innovative product, the new MAGIC SKY CONTROL panoramic vario-roof has also posed quite a number of challenges for the Mercedes-Benz engineers. Glass and foil have had to work perfectly together, and the control electronics have had to function in all imaginable circumstances. Sometimes the measurement data highlighted specific problems. This then resulted in the test technicians embarking on a flurry of hectic activity in their test workshop. What does this measurement tell us? How did it happen? What do we need to change in order to achieve an ideal result?
The technicians and engineers in Beatty were in constant contact with the development centre in Sindelfingen via the internet. Suggestions were made, then discarded, and new strategies were created and components changed. Often parts were exchanged and new sensors installed by early morning.
This phase has now been completed. The last heat tests in Death Valley have now confirmed this – and they have also once again demonstrated, to impressive effect, the efficiency of the newly developed roof. After taking to the driver’s seat – following the vehicle’s exposure to the torturing heat for four hours – and switching the roof to darkened mode, the test technicians immediately noticed significant relief from the heat. Thermal images showed that the temperature in the region of the head and shoulders was reduced. Measurements using the star pyranometer located on the centre stowage compartment clearly demonstrated why this was the case. With an open roof, the sun load in the heat of Death Valley reached 1000 to 1100 W per square metre. With the transparent glass roof it dropped to 200 W, and when the roof was switched to darkened mode with MAGIC SKY CONTROL, it dropped to 40 to 50 W – just one 20th of the original value.
The unique MAGIC SKY CONTROL glass roof will now be able to celebrate its world premiere next year.
As we previously brought you, Mercedes-Benz is enhancing the vario-roof of the SLK with innovative technology boasting entirely new features. As a result, a totally unique glass roof will be celebrating its world premiere in the new SLK next year: at the touch of a button it can be made either transparent or darkened. In transparent mode it will offer an open-air experience during cold weather, while in darkened mode it will afford a haven of shade and prevent the interior from heating up in direct sunlight.
Mercedes-Benz will be the first automotive manufacturer to offer the new glass roof – called the panoramic vario-roof with MAGIC SKY CONTROL – as an optional extra in the new SLK next year. Thanks to this new development, the transparent glass roof can be darkened on demand in a matter of seconds. By affording shade and a unique ambience, it helps to ensure a pleasant wellness atmosphere in the vehicle interior.
Since the innovative glass also shields against the sun’s rays far more effectively than conventional thermal insulation glass or sunblinds, the occupants of the new SLK will also enjoy the highest level of climatic comfort at the same time. When driving with the roof open would be unpleasant due to intense heat, the driver and front passenger are able to remain composed under the MAGIC SKY CONTROL roof – an important contribution towards feeling comfortable and driver-fitness safety, a concept typically promoted by Mercedes. Even when the vehicle is at a standstill the interior does not overheat, since the roof is switched to darkened mode when powered off.
The operating principle is based on the physics of a plate condenser: if the glass structure is subjected to an electrical voltage, particles in the structure position themselves so that light is able to pass through the glass. If the voltage remains switched off, however, the particles position themselves randomly. This partially blocks the light, and the glass remains dark. The control unit and converter are integrated into the front section of the roof, and the switch is in the overhead control console.
In addition to the unique panoramic effect and transparency at the touch of a button, MAGIC SKY CONTROL also provides a top-class wellness atmosphere. UV and infrared light are also effectively blocked in transparent mode, while insulation increases even more significantly and noticeably in darkened mode, thereby helping to keep the temperature on interior parts such as armrests cooler by up to 10 degrees Celsius compared with conventional green glass.
The demanding Mercedes-Benz endurance test programme which prototypes fitted with the switchable glass roof had to pass around the globe included harsh practical tests conducted in Death Valley in the USA – one of the hottest places on earth. Under the heat of the baking sun, summer temperatures there regularly hit over 50 degrees Celsius in the shade. The test engineers made the most of these conditions to heat up the SLK prototypes with transparent roofs for four hours around midday, for example. They then switched the roofs to non-transparent mode and immediately noticed significant relief from the torturing heat. Thermal images showed that temperatures in the region of the head were reduced.
Measurements using a device called a star pyranometer revealed why this was the case. This device measures the intensity of exposure to sunlight. With an open roof, the load from the sun in the heat of Death Valley reached 1000 to 1100 W per square metre. With the transparent glass roof it dropped to 200 W, and when the roof was switched to darkened mode with MAGIC SKY CONTROL, it dropped to 40 to 50 W – one 20th of the original value.
But MAGIC SKY CONTROL not only benefits passengers. Some of the strain is also taken off the air-conditioning system, thereby in turn saving on CO2 emissions.
The panoramic vario-roof with MAGIC SKY CONTROL will be available to order as an optional extra for less than 2000 euros.
The very first photos of the new SLK, which will be celebrated at the Geneva Motor Show 2011, made their debut today. While the photos released are only a teaser of what the new SLK will look like, they do give an insight to the SLK’s latest and greatest feature.
The Magic Sky Control roof takes advantage of a new innovative technology that allows the roof to be either transparent or darkened. Whether in cold, rainy or just overcast weather, the transparent option gives passengers and drivers an open air experience while remaining shielded from the elements. The dark state helps prevent the interior from being overheated and shields the occupents from intense sunlight.
The Magic Sky Control is set to be an option on the new SLK for just under 2,000 Euro additional. Advantages of the roof include: the glass more effectively shields solar radiation over conventional heat-resistant glass or shutters., when driving becomes uncomfortable with the roof open because of excessive heat, the transparent roof would remain comfortable and still give the open air feeling driver and passenger.
The varying roof makes use of a plate condenser to alter the transparency: when an electrical voltage is applied to the glass structure, the particles align on the structure of glass so that light can penetrate the glass. If the current is off, the particles are oriented randomly. Thus, the light is partially blocked and the screen is dark. The controller and converter are integrated in the front part of the roof and the switch can be found in the roof console. UV and infrared light are also blocked, even in the transparent state.
A special thanks to Markus Jordan for sharing the information and photos with us.