Mercedes-Benz SLK 250 CDI

The Mercedes-Benz SLK Roadster now comes with a diesel engine, resulting in fuel economy of 56.5 mpg and 132 g/km CO₂ emissions.

This makes it the most economical roadster in its segment. However it also has huge amounts of torque - 500 newton metres – helping it to accelerate from 0-62 mph in 6.7 seconds and on to 150 mph.

The new SLK 250 CDI has a 2143 cc four-cylinder diesel engine which generates an output of 204 hp – making it the most powerful diesel model in its class. It is equipped with the standard 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission; a six-speed manual transmission will follow in the second quarter of next year.

The diesel engine achieves its output, torque, fuel consumption and emissions figures thanks to a range of technologies. These include fourth-generation common-rail injection as well as two-stage turbocharging. Like all SLK models, the SLK 250 CDI also features a start/stop system as standard.

The SLK 250 CDI is available with a choice of three versions of the vario-roof, including the panoramic vario-roof with MAGIC SKY CONTROL. This glass roof can be changed from dark to transparent at the touch of a button.

There are also three suspension versions available: a conventional steel suspension, a sports suspension with a stiffer spring and damper setup or a suspension with an electronically controlled, fully automatic damping system. The latter is part of the Dynamic Handling package, which also includes the Direct-Steer system and the Torque Vectoring Brake.

The new SLK 250 CDI will go on sale in the UK early in 2012, pricing is still to be confirmed.