Mercedes-Benz SLK 250 Review

Reviewers say the 2015 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class has an attractive cabin and offers a nice balance between ride comfort and handling agility, but they say some competitors are faster and more athletic.

Performance Summary

A turbocharged four-cylinder engine comes standard in the 2015 Mercedes-Benz SLK250, and reviewers think it generates decent power but its acceleration is unimpressive compared to that of rivals. The SLK350 is equipped with a V6 that critics say is more potent, while the SLK55 AMG is fun to drive thanks to its V8 engine that delivers exhilarating acceleration. The SLK250 comes standard with a six-speed manual transmission, while all other models come standard with a seven-speed automatic. The SLK250 is available with the automatic as well.

Test drivers report that the SLK-Class' automatic transmission doesn't shift as readily as rivals' transmissions. According to the EPA, the SLK250 earns 22/32 mpg city/highway, which is good for the class. Reviewers note that the 2015 SLK-Class has nimble handling, precise steering and a comfortable ride, but that some rivals offer a much more exhilarating driving experience.

Interior Summary

According to test drivers, the 2015 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class has a high-end cabin featuring luxurious materials and a handsome style. The cabin feels cramped, they write, though the seats are comfortable. Trunk space is good for the class. Auto writers say the SLK-Class' infotainment system is simple to use after some practice.

Standard features include Bluetooth, HD Radio and a panoramic roof panel in the retractable hardtop. Available features include dual-zone automatic climate control, satellite radio, an 11-speaker Harman Kardon surround-sound stereo system, Mercedes' COMAND infotainment system with a 7-inch display, navigation, blind spot monitoring, lane departure warning, parallel park assist, forward collision warning with automatic braking, adaptive cruise control and a Magic Sky Control roof panel, which adjusts the transparency of the panel to let in more or less sunlight.

• "Now in its third generation, the latest SLK provides a much better balance between handling and comfort while continuing to offer the versatile hardtop convertible configuration that made the original a hit." - Left Lane News
• "The compact 2015 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class is a standout luxury convertible that offers retractable-hardtop convenience and rewarding performance in a dignified package." - Edmunds
• "Think of the 2015 Mercedes-Benz SLK as two cars in one: a fun-loving open-air roadster and a cozy, secure coupe. The dual personality comes courtesy of a hardtop roof that retracts with the touch of a button. As with its main competitor the BMW Z4, this ability to transform gives this small 2-seater a degree more practicality. Mercedes' compact convertible touts a plusher ride compared to its more dynamic BMW rival yet still offers a good blend of power and handling." - Kelley Blue Book
• "In other respects, the SLK is the consummate luxury hardtop convertible, as long as you don't mind driving a pint-sized car instead of something like the relatively imposing SL. Indeed, that's the only real compromise the SLK demands. If you're looking for a small roadster with a grand-touring pedigree, the SLK is hard to beat." - AutoTrader (2014)

Other Cars to Consider

The Porsche Boxster has incredibly athletic handling matched with powerful engine options, according to critics, and they say it is one of the most fun-to-drive cars in the class. Reviewers also think the Boxster has a stylish interior, with spacious and comfortable seats.

Test drivers note that the Chevrolet Corvette's standard V8 engine is extremely powerful and delivers blistering acceleration. They add that the Corvette has agile handling, a comfortable ride and excellent cargo space for a sports car.