Mercedes-Benz SLK 350 Car Review
Facts At A Glance
CAR:
Mercedes-Benz SLK350
PRICE:
£36,580 – on the road
INSURANCE GROUPS:
18
CO2 EMISSIONS:
288g/km
PERFORMANCE:
Max Speed 155mph / 0-60mph 5.4s
FUEL CONSUMPTION:
(combined) 31mpg
STANDARD SAFETY FEATURES:
Twin front and side airbags / ABS / ESP
WILL IT FIT IN YOUR GARAGE?:
Length/Width/Heightmm 4103/1777/1296:
Performance:
Comfort:
Handling:
Economy:
Image:
Styling:
Equipment:
Build:
Depreciation:
Insurance:
PARADIGM SHIFTER
The SLK350 Could Well Change The Way You View Sporty Mercedes Models. Andy Enright Reports
Admit it. You didn’t take it very seriously when you heard that Mercedes’ latest SLK was going to be a genuine challenger to the likes of the Porsche Boxster and the BMW Z4. Evolution’s all well and good, but the giant leap forward required to take on sporting roadsters of this calibre was surely too much for the SLK - a car which had garnered a reputation as pretty, amiable but rather limited. Think again. The car to redefine your scrambled points of reference is the Mercedes SLK350.
No, seriously. The SLK350 is a car that makes the Z4 feel contrived and does enough to keep the Boxster on its toes. It walks a very fine line between outright sportiness and refinement whilst at the same time offering enough styling gems to mull over without descending into visual gimmickry. It also has a lot of engine. These days ‘350’ doesn’t register all that far up Mercedes’ ladder of ever more ridiculously powerful engines but pause for a moment and consider what, in this case, it means.
It hefts 301bhp of poke which means that, even when fitted with the new ‘7-GTRONIC’ automatic gearbox, it’ll still stop the watch at 5.5 seconds for the sprint. With variable camshaft control on both intake and exhaust sides of the engine – a first for Mercedes – this engine offers a lot of grunt for its relatively modest size. Despite this, it’ll still average 31mpg.
"The SLK350 is a car that makes the Boxster feel old and the Z4 feel contrived"
Whereas powerful versions of the old car such as the SLK32 AMG were effortleslly quick in a straight line, this is only one part of a car’s dynamic make up. When it came to tacling a bumpy, rutted road, the SLK wasn’t too happy. The latest model is a whole lot better in this regard and driving in convoy with a Porsche Boxster is an education. The SLK350 absorbs so much more of the sort of bump that requires corrective action in the Porsche that although there isn’t quite the same feeling of tactility you get with a Boxster, you’ll cover ground at the same pace. What’s more, in complete contrast to its predecessor, the harder you push this generation SLK, the better it gets. The steering is very direct at just 2.75 turns lock to lock and the variable assistance is one of the best systems around, the amount of assistance dropping off smoothly and imperceptibly the quicker you go. The gearchange is also the first manual shift in recent Mercedes history that it’s possible to work up an enthusiasm for.
The basic shape of the SLK has been left unchanged, the characteristic short boot and long bonnet creating a more aesthetically pleasing profile than most of the other hard top convertibles, many of which have rather odd proportions. It’s a bigger car than before, the body being 72mm longer and 65mm wider, which means more space inside for beefier occupants. The roof mechanism has been widely copied and now no longer amazes bystanders but folds neatly into the boot in 22 seconds. The swivelling rear window means that with the roof folded there’s now a good deal more space available in the boot – a notable issue with the old car.
The SLK is a car that’s associated with engineering novelty, however, and Mercedes don’t disappoint this time around. The AIRSCARF neck-level heating system delivers a warm flow of air from the headrests, enabling SLK owners to drop the roof without experiencing the chill fingers of the typical British climate. This system monitors road speed and temperature and adapts the fan speed accordingly to ensure a toasty ‘scarf’ of hot air.
Safety provision has been well and truly revisited too, the latest SLK featuring a 40 per cent increase in the use of high tensile steel alloys. For the first time in an SLK, Mercedes is using adaptive airbags which deploy in two stages according to the severity of the accident. Twin stage seat belt load limiters also feature and recently developed head/thorax airbags respond to side impacts. A sensor triggers the side airbags and both belt tensioners during a vehicle rollover, with solid roll-over bars behind the seats also helping to prevent injury in the unlikely event of such an accident.
The styling is a good deal more aggressive in its detailing than the cute first generation car. The distinctive arrow-like tapering of the front bonnet is reminiscent of both the McLaren Formula One racer and the Mercedes SLR McLaren supercar. Twin exhausts, a deep front spoiler and purposefully blistered wheel arches give the SLK a welcome dose of attitude.
The Mercedes SLK350 is a vehicle that causes a reassessment of the current state of the roadster art. For the 100 per cent purist, the Porsche Boxster will still be top of the pile, but for most of the people most of the time, the SLK350 beats it hands down. You’ve no idea how difficult it is to write that. Here’s a car that demands to be taken extremely seriously.
Insurance & Finance
You have read the review now, so the next step is to find out the cost of financing and insuring this Mercedes-Benz. You can use our simple quoting methods below - Good Luck.
Monday, May 24, 2010
Thursday, March 18, 2010
Used approved scheme
Do you lot for your next car? Be approved, Used right for you. We have a series of basic information on buying used cars - you can almost new car for less money.
Manufacturer Guide
Why do we like to use approved
What do I need for my money?
Most manufacturers offer a low mileage used cars approved their dealers sometimes listed next to their cars.
Used car has a set of strict quality criteria, which was controlled by the mechanics and relisted.
It is a system that will allow buyers a nearly new car with the rest by a full mechanical inspection and safety - but at a lower price.
Most used for the approved systems of vehicles with a warranty of 12 months to sell - give the new owners peace of mind.
What is a certified used car?
Dealers most often accept that cars with low mileage, in good condition and have a full-service story in their approved schemes.
The car gets a full mechanical inspection and the defects are remedied.
Each model has its service history perspective, it is not the hidden past of care.
Benefits
Buy a car and you will be allowed money compared with buying a new model - and you will save most of the same benefits as buying new one.
You can be sure that the car has no mechanical defects and a history.
And you get a free warranty which covers the car after leaving the dealership.
There are also options you pay a dealer with finance packages available for your anticipated demand.
Auto Trader
Many of the 400,000 used cars at Auto Trader, used under an approved scheme.
Manufacturer Guide
Why do we like to use approved
What do I need for my money?
Most manufacturers offer a low mileage used cars approved their dealers sometimes listed next to their cars.
Used car has a set of strict quality criteria, which was controlled by the mechanics and relisted.
It is a system that will allow buyers a nearly new car with the rest by a full mechanical inspection and safety - but at a lower price.
Most used for the approved systems of vehicles with a warranty of 12 months to sell - give the new owners peace of mind.
What is a certified used car?
Dealers most often accept that cars with low mileage, in good condition and have a full-service story in their approved schemes.
The car gets a full mechanical inspection and the defects are remedied.
Each model has its service history perspective, it is not the hidden past of care.
Benefits
Buy a car and you will be allowed money compared with buying a new model - and you will save most of the same benefits as buying new one.
You can be sure that the car has no mechanical defects and a history.
And you get a free warranty which covers the car after leaving the dealership.
There are also options you pay a dealer with finance packages available for your anticipated demand.
Auto Trader
Many of the 400,000 used cars at Auto Trader, used under an approved scheme.
Monday, March 8, 2010
Mercedes has a beauty presentation
The media presentation for Mercedes-Benz Canada featured two of the most stunning sport vehicles on display at the 2010 Canadian International Auto Show. With pizzazz and sex appeal, Mercedes is on a roll as we enter what should be another successful year for the Germany automaker.
The Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG is a dramatic achievement with gull-wing doors and leather-bound interior. Power comes in the form of a 6.2-litre V8 engine developing 563 hp and 479 lb.-ft of torque. Aircraft design elements influence the graceful interior. Inside, magnesium backrests add flare and save weight. A one-of-a-kind masterpiece, the classic 300 SL is reborn for a new generation.
The new E-Class Cabriolet provides the perfect environment for a wind-free passenger compartment experience. Featuring the AIRCAP electric wind deflector, turbulence is greatly reduced for overall comfort. In addition, the newest AIRSCARF heating system for front seat passengers provides the option for all-season driving. Removing the top is possible even when driving at speeds of up to 40 km/h.
Two engine choices are available. The E350 Cabriolet features 268 hp, while the E550 Cabriolet entices with 382 hp. The year of the luxury sports car has arrived!
Saturday, January 30, 2010
discount new cars
Discount New Cars is a unique new car research showroom that displays discounted prices across a range of new car models via a group of authorised dealers Australia wide. We make the new car buying experience as easy and as friendly as possible. Tech specs, features, options and pricing, finance and insurance (if required) – everything you need to know about new cars is here and available to you obligation-free.
In one easy process you get all the information required to take the next step to obtain an obligation free enquiry today. Our service is free to you as it is paid for by subscribing dealers. Find out how much you can save on your new vehicle choice today - Click! Seek! Save!
In one easy process you get all the information required to take the next step to obtain an obligation free enquiry today. Our service is free to you as it is paid for by subscribing dealers. Find out how much you can save on your new vehicle choice today - Click! Seek! Save!
LATEST BROADSPEED NEWS
Factory Order - Buy a New Car from a Car Dealer
Choosing a new is a pretty exciting event, but it's sometimes more complex and difficult than it should be - to actually buy it. The time and effort needed to negotiate the lowest possible new car price really can make what should be quick and enjoyable phone call into a journey into the unknown! Broadspeed is your one stop shop to find the lowest new car price, the highest trade in value and cheapest car finance. The first step is always to decide whether you have the time to wait for a factory order. Car manufacturers have changed strategy from build then sell them to sell then build them. This means your choice of model, colour and optioanl equiment is very restricted compared to a year or two ago. A new car factory order is brand new, factory fresh, built to your exact personla specification - and the latest of everything. If you can wait 8-12 weeks (models vary on lead time), the factory order usually gets the exact car at the best price (because the dealer doesn't have to finance stock - you pay as soon as it arrives).
Ex-Stock - New Car Deals - Discount Car Prices
If you need a new car more quickly, we also have a car finder service; we can offer you discount on brand new cars, ex-demonstrators and nearly new showroom cars. These days, new cars are in short supply so bargains often sell the same day! Be ready to reserve it - or you may well lose it. And bear in mind that a "built car" may mean a colour or equipment compromise - whereas a factory order is your exact specifiaction. Complete as many free online enquiries as you like. Then once you finalise the colour and specification, tell us you're ready for a dealer quote - call us or complete the pre-order process, online. We'll quote you a dealer price there and then - and if you want to go ahead with the purchase, we'll introduce a uk dealer to buy from - the whole order process usually takes 1 working day.
Volume Discount - Cheap New Cars and Finance
Buying power is what it's all about! The more buying power we have, the more leverage we have with new car dealers - and that means you buy at a low discount price - but taking the minimum time and without the hassle facttor. Buying just one new car (no matter how good a negotiator you may be) is just one single sale. However, place an enquiry on www.broadspeed.com and you will benefit from our volume-buying rates whilst only buying a single new car. Like almost all businesses, new car dealerships have volume sales targets to maximise profitability. Broadspeed makes its business to know the aggressive new car dealers and to negotiate what amounts to PLC coroportae discounts for new cars. Private car buyers, small businesses, governemnt departments, assciations, trades unions can all source brand new and nearly new cars and commercials at dealer trade price, or less. Using our service allows you to compare car specifications and discounts without the usual time and hassle involved in buying your next new car.
Choosing a new is a pretty exciting event, but it's sometimes more complex and difficult than it should be - to actually buy it. The time and effort needed to negotiate the lowest possible new car price really can make what should be quick and enjoyable phone call into a journey into the unknown! Broadspeed is your one stop shop to find the lowest new car price, the highest trade in value and cheapest car finance. The first step is always to decide whether you have the time to wait for a factory order. Car manufacturers have changed strategy from build then sell them to sell then build them. This means your choice of model, colour and optioanl equiment is very restricted compared to a year or two ago. A new car factory order is brand new, factory fresh, built to your exact personla specification - and the latest of everything. If you can wait 8-12 weeks (models vary on lead time), the factory order usually gets the exact car at the best price (because the dealer doesn't have to finance stock - you pay as soon as it arrives).
Ex-Stock - New Car Deals - Discount Car Prices
If you need a new car more quickly, we also have a car finder service; we can offer you discount on brand new cars, ex-demonstrators and nearly new showroom cars. These days, new cars are in short supply so bargains often sell the same day! Be ready to reserve it - or you may well lose it. And bear in mind that a "built car" may mean a colour or equipment compromise - whereas a factory order is your exact specifiaction. Complete as many free online enquiries as you like. Then once you finalise the colour and specification, tell us you're ready for a dealer quote - call us or complete the pre-order process, online. We'll quote you a dealer price there and then - and if you want to go ahead with the purchase, we'll introduce a uk dealer to buy from - the whole order process usually takes 1 working day.
Volume Discount - Cheap New Cars and Finance
Buying power is what it's all about! The more buying power we have, the more leverage we have with new car dealers - and that means you buy at a low discount price - but taking the minimum time and without the hassle facttor. Buying just one new car (no matter how good a negotiator you may be) is just one single sale. However, place an enquiry on www.broadspeed.com and you will benefit from our volume-buying rates whilst only buying a single new car. Like almost all businesses, new car dealerships have volume sales targets to maximise profitability. Broadspeed makes its business to know the aggressive new car dealers and to negotiate what amounts to PLC coroportae discounts for new cars. Private car buyers, small businesses, governemnt departments, assciations, trades unions can all source brand new and nearly new cars and commercials at dealer trade price, or less. Using our service allows you to compare car specifications and discounts without the usual time and hassle involved in buying your next new car.
CarsDirect is the best place to buy new cars and used cars online
has been rated the #1 site for buying new cars online by Forbes, Time, PC Magazine, and PC World, among others.
We offer low, no-haggle prices and have a huge selection of new and used cars. To find the guaranteed CarsDirect price for any new vehicle, begin by selecting the make and model in the drop-down menus above.
If you choose to buy a new car online through CarsDirect, a Vehicle Specialist will contact you quickly and help you through the entire car buying process.
If you prefer to buy your next new car from a dealer, we will match your needs with a member of our certified dealer network near you. Your VIP dealer representative will work with you to find your vehicle and negotiate a low price.
You can also search for used cars at CarsDirect. Need to sell your car? List your used car on CarsDirect.com, where it will be available to millions of car shoppers every month.
Thousands of happy customers buy cars through us every month. Who knew it was so easy to buy new cars online?
We offer low, no-haggle prices and have a huge selection of new and used cars. To find the guaranteed CarsDirect price for any new vehicle, begin by selecting the make and model in the drop-down menus above.
If you choose to buy a new car online through CarsDirect, a Vehicle Specialist will contact you quickly and help you through the entire car buying process.
If you prefer to buy your next new car from a dealer, we will match your needs with a member of our certified dealer network near you. Your VIP dealer representative will work with you to find your vehicle and negotiate a low price.
You can also search for used cars at CarsDirect. Need to sell your car? List your used car on CarsDirect.com, where it will be available to millions of car shoppers every month.
Thousands of happy customers buy cars through us every month. Who knew it was so easy to buy new cars online?
How to Negotiate a Price and Buy a New Cars
1.
Step 1
Decide how you intend to use the car: for daily commuting, recreation, weekends and evenings out, carrying things, towing a trailer, carrying more than one passenger or driving in the city, suburbs or country. Consider factors that are important to you, such as fuel efficiency, reliability and safety features.
2.
Step 2
Check into the resale value and repair history of past models in this car line, such as by consulting Consumer Reports magazine or its website (see Resources).
3.
Step 3
Come up with a realistic budget, based on what you can afford (consider the monthly payment and cost of upkeep). If you're considering a trade-in, check the Kelley Blue Book value of your current vehicle. The Blue Book is a catalog of new and used car values, available at libraries, banks and online (see Resources). Factor your car's trade-in value into your total budget.
4.
Step 4
Locate a town or an area near your home with several car dealerships; check Sunday newspaper advertisements and the yellow pages. Choose one or more dealerships to visit and set out early, preferably on a weekday. Remember to bring your driver's license so you can test drive.
5.
Step 5
Find a car that interests you and check the stickers on the window. The first (and sometimes only) one is the factory sticker, which lists the MSRP (Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price), and the second is the dealer's sticker.
6.
Step 6
You'll see that the factory sticker lists the car's features and its fuel-efficiency rating (or the number of miles per gallon expected for city and highway driving). The MSRP on this sticker includes the sum of the vehicle's base price, any additional options and the destination fee. The MSRP has a built-in profit for the dealer, often around 10 percent.
7.
Step 7
Understand that the second sticker, if there is one, reflects a higher price. This price is set by the retailer for options and services it has supplied apart from the factory. Examples include an undercoating (to protect the car's underside exterior), dealer prep (washing, waxing and interior cleaning), interior and exterior treatment (sealant for the interior, no-wax finish for the exterior) and extra items (specialty wheels, for example). The second sticker price may also include additional dealer profits.
8.
Step 8
Tell the sales representative that you'd like to have a look inside the car, or just hop in if it's unlocked. Adjust the seat and mirrors, and check leg room in each part of the car.
9.
Step 9
Ask to take a test drive. Start out on city streets and then head out to the highway. Pay attention to steering ease, turning radius, braking response and acceleration. Adjust the mirrors and radio while you're driving to test convenience.
10.
Step 10
Return to the dealership and thank the dealer. If you like the car, ask for a business card and say you will return later.
11.
Step 11
Head to the next dealership and investigate other car models as described above. Ask dealers which car most closely resembles the one you previously test-drove, providing the make and model and explaining which features you liked. Test a number of models until you decide on a car, and compare these prices with those at other dealerships.
12.
Step 12
Inquire about availability and delivery time, especially if you're interested in a popular model or want special features.
13.
Step 13
Factor the dealership and its sales staff into your choice. A dealership you can trust, especially one with a competent service center on site, is worth more than money in your long future with the vehicle. You can, of course, have your car serviced at any dealer authorized by your new car's warranty.
14.
Step 14
Start negotiations on polite and friendly terms. Comment on what you like about the car and ask questions. The intent is to make the seller comfortable.
15.
Step 15
Remember that the dealer's second sticker lists options, not requirements, regardless of whether those services have already been provided. Ask for the factory wheels back, for example, or order a car that has no undercoating.
16.
Step 16
Make your first offer. It should be lower than what you're willing to pay, but not an insulting figure. Use the MSRP as a reference, remembering that dealer profit (often around 10 percent) is built into this figure.
17.
Step 17
Allow the seller to make a counteroffer. If the price is too high, say you're not able to afford that and ask him to talk to his manager.
18.
Step 18
If the salesperson balks at your first offer, make a slightly higher one. Continue negotiating until you can agree on a price within your budget. If you can't agree on a price, seek out another dealer. You may be able to go back and get the first dealer to underbid the second dealer.
Step 1
Decide how you intend to use the car: for daily commuting, recreation, weekends and evenings out, carrying things, towing a trailer, carrying more than one passenger or driving in the city, suburbs or country. Consider factors that are important to you, such as fuel efficiency, reliability and safety features.
2.
Step 2
Check into the resale value and repair history of past models in this car line, such as by consulting Consumer Reports magazine or its website (see Resources).
3.
Step 3
Come up with a realistic budget, based on what you can afford (consider the monthly payment and cost of upkeep). If you're considering a trade-in, check the Kelley Blue Book value of your current vehicle. The Blue Book is a catalog of new and used car values, available at libraries, banks and online (see Resources). Factor your car's trade-in value into your total budget.
4.
Step 4
Locate a town or an area near your home with several car dealerships; check Sunday newspaper advertisements and the yellow pages. Choose one or more dealerships to visit and set out early, preferably on a weekday. Remember to bring your driver's license so you can test drive.
5.
Step 5
Find a car that interests you and check the stickers on the window. The first (and sometimes only) one is the factory sticker, which lists the MSRP (Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price), and the second is the dealer's sticker.
6.
Step 6
You'll see that the factory sticker lists the car's features and its fuel-efficiency rating (or the number of miles per gallon expected for city and highway driving). The MSRP on this sticker includes the sum of the vehicle's base price, any additional options and the destination fee. The MSRP has a built-in profit for the dealer, often around 10 percent.
7.
Step 7
Understand that the second sticker, if there is one, reflects a higher price. This price is set by the retailer for options and services it has supplied apart from the factory. Examples include an undercoating (to protect the car's underside exterior), dealer prep (washing, waxing and interior cleaning), interior and exterior treatment (sealant for the interior, no-wax finish for the exterior) and extra items (specialty wheels, for example). The second sticker price may also include additional dealer profits.
8.
Step 8
Tell the sales representative that you'd like to have a look inside the car, or just hop in if it's unlocked. Adjust the seat and mirrors, and check leg room in each part of the car.
9.
Step 9
Ask to take a test drive. Start out on city streets and then head out to the highway. Pay attention to steering ease, turning radius, braking response and acceleration. Adjust the mirrors and radio while you're driving to test convenience.
10.
Step 10
Return to the dealership and thank the dealer. If you like the car, ask for a business card and say you will return later.
11.
Step 11
Head to the next dealership and investigate other car models as described above. Ask dealers which car most closely resembles the one you previously test-drove, providing the make and model and explaining which features you liked. Test a number of models until you decide on a car, and compare these prices with those at other dealerships.
12.
Step 12
Inquire about availability and delivery time, especially if you're interested in a popular model or want special features.
13.
Step 13
Factor the dealership and its sales staff into your choice. A dealership you can trust, especially one with a competent service center on site, is worth more than money in your long future with the vehicle. You can, of course, have your car serviced at any dealer authorized by your new car's warranty.
14.
Step 14
Start negotiations on polite and friendly terms. Comment on what you like about the car and ask questions. The intent is to make the seller comfortable.
15.
Step 15
Remember that the dealer's second sticker lists options, not requirements, regardless of whether those services have already been provided. Ask for the factory wheels back, for example, or order a car that has no undercoating.
16.
Step 16
Make your first offer. It should be lower than what you're willing to pay, but not an insulting figure. Use the MSRP as a reference, remembering that dealer profit (often around 10 percent) is built into this figure.
17.
Step 17
Allow the seller to make a counteroffer. If the price is too high, say you're not able to afford that and ask him to talk to his manager.
18.
Step 18
If the salesperson balks at your first offer, make a slightly higher one. Continue negotiating until you can agree on a price within your budget. If you can't agree on a price, seek out another dealer. You may be able to go back and get the first dealer to underbid the second dealer.
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