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AutoLeaks: 2012 Mercedes SLK Revealed Ahead of Time through Video, Over 60 Photos

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WikiLeaks and Julian Assange aren't the only ones spilling documents and data all over the net. Today, an official promotional video of the all-new third-generation 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK roadster showed up on Youtube. Not surprisingly, the French language film was pulled off Youtube pretty quickly, but not before we managed to get these screenshots and all the valuable information it contained.

Looking at the video, we can tell that, even though the new SLK's silhouette remains familiar, there are plenty of new details and a crisper styling for the body which brings to mind the larger SL model. Notable changes include the new CLS-inspired front grille and the air vents on the front fenders.

At the rear, the new SLK has retained many design cues seen on the current generation with some alterations. For instance, the boot lid has a "swoopier" styling, while the tail lamps “bite” further into the fenders with their shape reminding those found on the C-Class.

The car featured in the video appears to have been loaded with extras judging by the bodykit with front and rear spoiler lips plus a rear diffuser, and larger AMG alloys.

Mercedes has kept the two-piece folding hardtop, however the company will offer a €2,000 or so glass roof option with the so-called Magic Sky Control system that can darken the glass pane with a touch of a button.

As for the interior, we find an SLS AMG-inspired center console and sport seats with Merc's Air-Scarf system.

The 2012 SLK will showcase many technologies, such as adaptive lights, intelligent cruise control linked to Pre-Safe, direct injection, adaptive suspension, Stop/Start function, and according to the video, a new, innovative draft-stopping system.

Mercedes also promises premium materials, enhanced handling and more advanced 7G-Tronic Plus transmissions. Engine choices should include a variety of four-cylinder and V6 gasoline units, and if the rumors turn out to be true, a diesel option may very well be on the menu for the first time in the SLK's history.

With the production model set to go on sale in March of 2011, the official presentation of the third-generation SLK can't be far away so we'll keep an eye open for any new developments.

By Csaba Daradics


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15 Comments:

Anonymous said... »December 03, 2010

Now, it if "finally" a true Mercedes-Benz! Brilliantly executed :)

Anonymous said... »December 03, 2010

The styling looks like a truck, not an automobile. What happened to the svelte front-ends that Mercedes used to have?

Anonymous said... »December 03, 2010

This looks amazing, I think Mercedes-Benz have finally restored their reputation.

C said... »December 03, 2010

What the hell is that? It looks like a Chinese knock off. The front fascia is boxy and disgusting and doesn't blend well with the rest of the car. I am loosing what little faith I had in Mercedes styling.

Anonymous said... »December 03, 2010

When did the Dodge/RAM Truck grille become a MBZ staple? If it weren't for that hideous grille, I'd say the car was quite the looker.

Jake02 said... »December 04, 2010

Somone crashed a C-class into a current SLK... It looks awful! That nose...

Illarion said... »December 04, 2010

This is most probably the AMG version with a more 'boxy' front.

Anonymous said... »December 06, 2010

Carsoop, you guy promised pictures, not ghosts. what the hell?

Anonymous said... »December 06, 2010

Enough for me to write the check. Finally, Grrl friends old SLK is going to find a new home.

Anonymous said... »December 07, 2010

The video is on youtube again, it's always impossible to erase all the copies. Check it.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UaeOX_0yOzc

As for the car, if the front was a bit more rounded and not so "squary" it would go better with the more rounded rear but I kind of like it and I need to see how it's gonna look on the road. I may be wrong but I have a feeling that it's gonna look better than it does on video and photos.

Anonymous said... »December 09, 2010

SLK 350 mit AMG Packet :-)

Anonymous said... »December 09, 2010

This car 2011 is made for man not for women like the slk 2008 :-(

Anonymous said... »December 13, 2010

The features of this car are beautiful, yet masculine enough to appeal to those men who found the previous SLK generation to “girly”. MB has truly found the right balance this time and I cannot wait to see it on the road. This looks like a genuine driving machine and provided that the price does not exceed that of the previous model too much, I will definitely get me one.

Anonymous said... »December 13, 2010

And who made this car ? Yes German Quality and Styling :-). I can not understand why the nice corvette dont copy the interior like audi oder mercedes. One of my friend drive corvette c5 and inside its not nice :-( also the new Chevrolet Camaro inside its dont look modern :-(

Anonymous said... »December 13, 2010

Yes, it is hard to deny that German cars are in a class of their own and MB has seemingly outranked all other car manufacturers with their new SLK. Those who claim that you cannot buy happiness have not driven a German convertible on a hot summer day.

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