These spy shots of the Mercedes SL show the next generation which will turn up in only 2012. But testing has already been underway for the new Mercedes spider, which should be getting a complete overhaul. The Mercedes SL is still covered in very heavy camouflage, meaning we can’t get an accurate idea of how it will look.

According to some reports, both the Mercedes SL and SLK will inherit some of the design features from the classic Mercedes SLS, but we can’t verify that with these shots. However, we do get some tantalising technical information: the new SL should be wider and lower than the current model, gaining some improvements in aerodynamics and drive style.

It will have a totally new spaceframe chassis, and will have a specialist suspension system with an aluminium double triangle both at the front and rear. We should also see an exciting new engine range with new V6 and V8 units, both aspirated and turbo models, with CGI direct injection. Both performance and fuel consumption should be improved, and eventually we should also see a Mercedes SL hybrid version with lithium ion batteries.

Source | Autowereld

Continue reading: Mercedes SL spy shots

This Mercedes SLK spy shot could also be a baby SLS AMG first look, according to World Car Fans. The spy shot, similar to previous mules seen testing, was originally considered to be the 2012 Mercedes SLK, but since announcements that a smaller SLS AMG will be produced, that may not be the case.

The idea is that what was once destined to be the stuff of the SLK could in fact be dedicated to the new, smaller SLS AMG, which will appear in the product line-up above the SLK55 AMG, much like the Gullwing is placed above the SL63. Don’t expect the baby SLS AMG to be a smaller version than the current one, as rumours say that the gullwing doors will be replaced by a more economical option.

That doesn’t help to identify these spy shots, then, because if we were looking for the signature doors, we clearly have to reconsider. Alternatively, these spy shots could just be the new SLK redesigned in a more classic style. We can’t say though, that the idea of the baby SLS AMG from the guys at WCF isn’t tantalising all the same.

Continue reading: Mercedes SLK or baby SLS AMG spy shots

If these pics were anything to go by, this Mercedes SLK would be off to the panel beaters, but instead these spy shots show some heavy camouflage to protect the SLK from spying eyes. No definite news is available as to the date of its presentation, though some sources have been talking the end of 2012.

While it’s likely we’ll see a debut before that date, looking at these pics we still get some idea as the modifications in style. The nose looks to dip less and the headlights look sharper in design, conforming with recent developments in Mercedes style. Other changes are the LED lights, and new rear vision mirrors.

The engine range appears to provide some tantalising news, with talk of the new turbo charged four-cylinder, although after rumours of the powerful 3.5 litre V6 twin turbo, all eyes are on the AMG version. It’s possible that the next generation SLK will sit somewhere between the 6.2 litre V8 aspirated engine, and the next, smaller, turbo models.

Photo | LeftLane

Continue reading: New Mercedes SLK spy shots

This curious Mercedes Slk with its unusual camouflage has been explained by LeftLane. At least, their theory for this version is the re-designing of the boot to accommodate the new rigid roof, possibly in crystal glass, as the prototype being tested has a transparent insert substituting metal.

We’re doubtful. If they’re working on a new hard-top, why not concentrate on the hatchback and a different profile? Any glass roof is unlikely to be introduced before 2010, so theories will abound until we get the final word from Mercedes on this Slk and its panorama roof.

Continue reading: Mercedes Slk: camouflage hiding a glass roof?

12 years after its debut the Mercedes Slk is celebrating 500,000 cars sold: a prestigious achievement favoured by the German market (with two thirds of the total not exiting German borders) and by the refined exclusivity of the folding roof, distinctive element separating it from the competition.

The second edition of the Sportlich, Leicht and Kompakt (sport, lightweight and compact), recently rejuvenated by the specific restyling, has reached the level of 190,000 vehicles while the Kompressor cements its position as the favourite car - already at half the expected sales.

Thanks to enr

Via | Motorauthority

Continue reading: Mercedes Slk: reaching 500.000 sales

Mercedes-Benz is warming up for the 78th edition of the Geneva Motor Show: the brand is coming with a massive five world premieres: the all-new CLC, the facelifted CLS, SLK and SL, and the CL 500 4Matic, that features for the first time the extremely light all-wheel drive system on this model. You can find the complete press release after the jump.

Continue reading: Mercedes-Benz at the 2008 Geneva Motor Show