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  The new Mercedes-Benz SLK 300 Roadster.

Melbourne - The Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class Roadsters have long captured the hearts of sports car enthusiasts. Following an extensive facelift in 2008 which incorporated some 650 newly developed components, Mercedes-Benz is now adding a fourth model to this exciting roadster family: the SLK 300.

This new model adds a second V6-powered variant to the SLK family, joining the popular 224kW SLK 350. It also means Australian customers now have a further choice amongst the supercharged four-cylinder SLK 200 KOMPRESSOR and the high-performance V8-powered SLK 55 AMG.

Since it first appeared in 1996, the compact SLK Roadsters have underlined the dynamic brand image of Mercedes-Benz. The current-generation SLK received a number of enhancements in 2008, making it an even more compelling choice. These technical and aesthetic updates further emphasised the SLK’s sporty character and made it even more desirable to Australian buyers.

The new SLK 300 features a number of sporty highlights but perhaps its greatest appeal is, like all SLK Roadsters, its ability to transform the car from a roadster into a weatherproof coupé in a matter of seconds. The car’s signature vario roof makes it an open-top sports car for all seasons, going from closed to fully open in just 22 seconds.

On the road, the SLK Roadster is a dynamic driver’s machine. Its direct-steer system with variable power assistance elicits the very best from the suspension's sporty capabilities. It combines agility and manoeuvrability on twisting country roads with light steering forces when parking and sure steering characteristics at high speeds.

The direct-steer system is derived from Mercedes-Benz’ speed-sensitive power steering system and operates purely mechanically. This dispenses with the need for elaborate actuator units and complex sensors, which would otherwise impair the flow of forces between the wheels and hands, thereby compromising steering precision.

The SLK’s designers have carved the cult two-seater’s looks for sportiness. Eye-catching features include the distinctive front bumper with a modified air-dam arrangement and a more pronounced V-shape, while the area around the Mercedes star now stands out with its diffuser-look styling at the bottom.

Enhancing all of this is the car’s standard-fitment AMG body styling, adding a sharper edge to the look of this new roadster model. The SLK 300 Roadster is now on sale from all authorised Mercedes-Benz dealerships.

* Combined cycle according to ADR 81/02

** Manufacturer's List Price (Includes GST and LCT but excludes on-road costs)