2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK Roadster Reviews And Specs

Over the past year, numerous scoops and a major leak, accompanied by several official releases, have shed light on many details on the 2012 Mercedes SLK. In fact, we were expecting the German maker to bring the third generation roadster to the 2011 Detroit Auto Show, ahead of its projected March debut. Even though that never happened, today, Mercedes finally released the last pieces of the SLK puzzle.

There will be two models of the 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class available in its first year, both powered by direct-injection engines. The completely redesigned V6 engine in the SLK350 develops 302 hp from its 3498 cubic-centimeter displacement, using this power to accelerate in 5.4 (est.) seconds from 0 to 60 mph (top speed 155 mph). Its fuel Later on in the model year, the SLK250 goes on-sale with a four-cylinder engine developing 201 hp from a displacement of 1796 cubic centimeters.

The SLK250 is equipped as standard with a 6-speed manual transmission and consumes an estimated 27 mpg (combined). From a standstill it reaches 60 mph in 6.5 seconds, and it has a top speed of 155 mph.

The 2012 SLK has generous interior dimensions. To achieve this, the designers have developed interior appointments that offer the driver and passenger the highest degree of quality and pure precision. The interior is characterized by stylish sportiness and genuine high-quality materials which have been processed with perfect precision and skilled craftsmanship. Standard brushed aluminum trim covers the center console; wood trim can be ordered as an option in high-gloss dark brown walnut. Four round, metallic air outlets integrated in the dashboard emphasize that this model truly belongs to the Mercedes-Benz sports car family, their shape being a nod to those in the SLS.

2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class Roadster Specs

Unique item of equipment: MAGIC SKY CONTROL
For the first time Mercedes-Benz is offering a choice of three variants of the lightweight-construction vario-roof for the new SLK: In just a few seconds this feature transforms the roadster into a coupé with a “fixed” roof at the touch of a button – and vice versa:

• The base version is a roof painted in the vehicle colour
• Alternatively there is the option of a panoramic vario-roof with dark-tinted windows
• The third variant is a world premiere – the panoramic vario-roof with MAGIC SKY CONTROL. This glass roof switches to light or dark as you wish at the press of a button. When light it is virtually transparent, offering an open-air experience even in cold weather. In its dark state the roof provides welcome shade and prevents the interior from heating up when the sun’s rays are very intense. In other words: a feel-good atmosphere at the touch of a button

The new Mercedes-Benz SLK can be ordered from 17 January 2011. The prices including VAT are as follows:
SLK 200 BlueEFFICIENCY: 38,675 euros,
SLK 250 BlueEFFICIENCY: 44,256.10 euros,
SLK 350 BlueEFFICIENCY: 52,300.50 euros.

The 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class goes on-sale in the U.S. this summer.

Claimed to offer a 25% increase in fuel economy compared to the previous model, in Europe, the SLK will be available with three engines, all of them featuring direct injection and stop/start systems.

Filling in the base model's shoes is the SLK 200 BlueEfficiency variant, powered by a 1.8-liter four-cylinder powerplant, capable of 184 hp. Mated to a seven-speed 7G-Tronic Plus automatic transmission, the four-pot needs just 6.1 liters of gasoline per 100 km (38.6 US mpg) in the combined cycle. The SLK 200 sprints to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 7 seconds and has a top speed of 237 km/h (147 mph).

Next up is the SLK 250 BlueEfficiency, fitted with the same engine, but tuned to deliver 204 hp. It accelerates from standstill to 100 km/h (62 mph) in just 6.6 seconds and maxes out at 243 km/h (151 mph). Furthermore, the extra oomph doesn’t take its toll at the pump, as the SLK 250 consumes 6.2 lt/100 km (38 US mpg).

The top dog of the line-up will be the SLK 350 BlueEfficiency, motivated by a newly developed 306-horsepower 3.5-liter V6. The bevy of technology found under the bonnet helps the range-topping SLK return good mileage as well (7.1 lt/100 km or 33 mpg) and sprint to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 5.6 seconds. Top speed is pegged at 250 km/h or 155 mph.

In the U.S., the new generation of Merc's roadster model will be offered in two variants, the 302HP SLK 350 (0-60mph in 5.4 sec) and the 201HP 1.8-liter four-cylinder SLK 250 (0-60mph in 6.5 sec, 27mpg combined with the standard 6-speed manual gearbox).

The base models will come with a conventional steel suspension, while optional goodies include a sports suspension with harder springs and dampers and the Dynamic Handling Package with continuous adjustable damping, further refined by a better steering system and torque vectoring brakes.

There are plenty of electronic gadgets on the menu as well. Aside from the innovative (and optional) Magic Sky Control panoramic glass-roof, owners will also be able to enjoy the benefits of the Airguide draught-stop and Airscarf heating system, ensuring that open-top motoring is possible even in cold weather.

Regarding safety, Mercedes says the new body structure offers better protection, complemented by active features, such as PreSafe and Presafe Brake.

The 2012 Mercedes SLK can be ordered in Europe from January 17, for a base price of 38,675 euros (SLK 200), including VAT. The more powerful variants will cost 44,256 (SLK 250) and 52,300 (SLK 350) euros.

To mark the launch of the car, Mercedes will offer a special edition equipment package. Named “Edition 1”, the package includes a panoramic vario-roof, Dynamic Handling package, AMG bodykit, two-tone Designo nappa leather with contrasting topstitching, Airscarf, ambient lighting and more. Additional charges range from 8,490 to 8,990 euros, depending on the model.

The Cars You'll Drive in 2014

The Cars You'll Drive in 2014

Everybody knows the auto world has shifted. The trick is divining which brands have got the gumption to last.

Now, with President Obama's new efficiency standards requiring a fleet-wide fuel economy average of 35.5 miles per gallon, automakers have their work cut out for them.

Domestic carmakers in particular are gearing up to battle forthcoming offerings from new-to-the-U.S.Fiat, with its diminutive 55.5-mile-per-gallon Fiat 500, and Chinese newcomer BYD, maker of the staid hybrid-electric F3DM sedan.

Motor City had better get cracking. It takes four years to produce a market-ready vehicle, and a typical lifecycle for one model is seven years. While we wait to see what brands emerge victorious, Honda's mod CR-Z and Ford's "eco-boosted" Euro models point to the types of cars we can expect by 2014.

Alfa Romeo Milano

Highlights: Set to debut at the Frankfurt Auto Show in September, the Milano is expected to boast a 120-horsepower 4-cylinder or 265-hp V6 engine. It sold briefly in North America (and was called the 75 elsewhere) in the late 1980s and early 1990s but disappeared when Alfa left the continent.

Why we care: Experts are speculating that the five-door Milano will form the basis for a new Chrysler sedan. It'll go on sale in Europe first, then likely come to the U.S. a few years later.

Read on for more lists, rankings and auto coverage including facts about what Fiat means in the U.S. and why some cars are still selling, despite the auto industry downturn.

BMW X1

 

Highlights: BMW designed the X1 to combine the characteristics of its X-line SUV models with those of its smaller sedans in a new, "compact SUV" format.

Why we care: Based on the much-lauded 1-Series, the 6-cylinder X1 promises superb handling in a beefed-up, all-wheel drive format.

Read on for more lists, rankings and auto coverage including facts about what Fiat means in the U.S. and why some cars are still selling, despite the auto industry downturn.

BYD F3DM

 

Highlights: This plug-in electric hybrid car went on sale in China late last year. It uses an electric motor and a 67-horsepower, 1-liter gasoline engine (for a combined output of the equivalent of 168 hp). It's tough to get specifics from the Shenzhen-based company, but BYD said at the Detroit Auto Show it'll bring products to the U.S. in 2011. The F3DM or F6DM could follow shortly after.
Why we care: In September 2008, billionaire investor Warren Buffet bought a 10% share of BYD for HKD1.8 billion. He has also reportedly been involved with consulting with the company on how to breech overseas markets--a positive sign for the hybrid's chances in the U.S., where it will face off with GM's Chevrolet Volt.
Read on for more lists, rankings and auto coverage including facts about what Fiat means in the U.S. and why some cars are still selling, despite the auto industry downturn.

Cadillac Converj

Highlights: This "grand touring coupe" was created to show GM's electric technology (called Voltec) inside a sporty body style. It has a 40-mile electric-only range and can charge in eight hours on a regular, 120-volt outlet. Top speed is 100 miles per hour; top power is 120kW.
Why we care: If Cadillac can bring the Converj (or a similar production-ready car) to market, it will show GM can make electric technology both luxurious and practical for daily drives.
Read on for more lists, rankings and auto coverage including facts about what Fiat means in the U.S. and why some cars are still selling, despite the auto industry downturn.

Ford C-Max

Highlights: The multi-purpose C-Max has been on sale in Europe since 2003; some experts think it will be one of the vehicles Ford plans to eventually bring to North America as part of its multiyear "One Ford" global product plan. Other confirmed new-to-the-U.S. cars are the Focus and Fiesta, due to hit stores next year.
Why we care: Part of Ford's survival goal is to use more, 4- and 6-cylinder engines that use its "ecoboost" technology to produce the same power as a 6- or 8-cylinder, respectively; it will place some of those engines in vehicles it brings over from Europe. The success or failure of that plan could have long-lasting ramifications for the company.
Read on for more lists, rankings and auto coverage including facts about what Fiat means in the U.S. and why some cars are still selling, despite the auto industry downturn.

Honda CR-Z

Highlights: The 140-horsepower sporty hybrid concept will include the motor and battery platform currently used in the Honda Insight. Honda execs say it will be fun to drive, efficient and affordable.

Why we care: The two-seater is designed to remind drivers of the CRX, Honda's popular front-wheel drive sports car from the 1980s. The company has confirmed it will bring CR-Z (shorthand for "Compact Renaissance Zero") to dealer floors in the next few years.

Read on for more lists, rankings and auto coverage including facts about what Fiat means in the U.S. and why some cars are still selling, despite the auto industry downturn.

Hyundai HED-5 i-Mode

 

Highlights: A six-seat monocab that uses "advanced eco-dynamics" with a small displacement engine and "futuristic" communications and entertainment systems, Hyundai says.

Why we care: Hyundai has dramatically changed its reputation in the past year, thanks in part to winning Car of the Year for its Genesis sedan and to creative marketing like its Assurance program, which promises to accept back a new vehicle if the owner loses his or her job. It will be interesting to see how its rise to prominence continues in the face of pressure from new competitors.

Read on for more lists, rankings and auto coverage including facts about what Fiat means in the U.S. and why some cars are still selling, despite the auto industry downturn.

MINI E, MINI Crossman

Highlights: The plug-in E gets 150 kW of power and can hit 62 miles per hour in 8.5 seconds. It will have a top seed of 95 miles per hour and a range of 156 miles on one charge. The Crossman compact crossover will allegedly sit several inches higher than the Clubman but will maintain the distinctive MINI styling.

Why we care: The E is MINI's first all-electric vehicle. Its success or failure could determine how much time, money and effort MINI devotes to electric technology. The Crossman will be MINI's first-ever 4X4 vehicle--a departure from its diminutive, rally-car look.

Read on for more lists, rankings and auto coverage including facts about what Fiat means in the U.S. and why some cars are still selling, despite the auto industry downturn.

Volkswagen BlueSport

Highlights: Volkswagen says the mid-engine, turbo diesel roadster will get 42 miles per gallon. It will weigh less than 1200 kg and get 180 horsepower and reach a top speed of 140 miles per hour.

Why we care: This is VW's third time trying to combine driving thrills and good fuel economy (its ConceptR and EcoRacer were two misses); this concept car looks closer to production than its predecessors, despite recent news that VW will delay final production of the model.

Read on for more lists, rankings and auto coverage including facts about what Fiat means in the U.S. and why some cars are still selling, despite the auto industry downturn.

The World's Most Advanced and Most Expensive Cars

The World's Most Advanced and Most Expensive Cars

Cool Wallpapers of  The Coolest Super Cars in the World.

This is a super cars, with the most advanced engine technology in the world, the future of material stronger than steel and super lightweight, and with the most spectacular designs.

Advanced materials that are used in almost all of this super car is a material called Carbon Fiber, which is also used in spacecraft. Enjoy.

 

2009 Alfa Romeo

One of Forbes automotive consultant Rob Myers called it "one of the main things that is most beautiful in the world"

Koenigsegg CCGT

This is a supercar from Angelholm Sweden. CCXR version of it is sports car "environmentally friendly" first, "Green Car" by using biofuels than ethanol. CCXR version is also chosen by Forbes as one of the most beautiful car in history.

 

SSC Ultimate Aero TT Fastest Car in the World.

This is the fastest car beating Bugatti Veyron, 413 km / hour. The engine uses Twin-Turbo V8 and theoretically capable of reaching speed of 439 km / hour. Velocity tested in the special trials of NASA in Virginia. Made in America. SCC (creator) announced that new models of electric-powered Aero EV will soon be produced. Super fast, and environmentally friendly.

 

 Lamborghini Reventon

Designed by model aircraft, even has a G-Force Meter. This is the second most expensive car after the Veyron, costing U.S. $ 1,600,000. Made very limited and were sold out even before it is produced. This is the strongest and most expensive Lamborghini ever built. It will only be produced as many as 20 pieces.

Bugatti Veyron, World's Most Expensive Cars

The price is U.S. $ 1,700,000. The material consists of Carbon Fiber, Titanium, and Aluminum. Carbon Fiber is a special material that lightweight but extremely strong. His max speed can reach 400 km / h! (But there's one more car is faster). This car can accelerate from 0 to 100 km / h in just 2.5 seconds, acceleration of the world's fastest machine. The engine uses powerful turbocharged W16 engine.

Frazer-Nash "Namir" Hybrid.

Super sports car in the world's fastest hybrid, the engine can use gasoline and electricity at the same time making it very economical. Namir derived from Arabic meaning "tiger.

Super Sport Cars Review

The Chevrolet Corvette is a sports car by the Chevrolet division of General Motors that has been produced in six generations. The first model, a convertible, was designed by Harley Earl and introduced at the GM Motorama in 1953 as a concept show car. Myron Scott is credited for naming the car after the Corvette, a small, maneuverable warship.[1] Originally built in Flint, Michigan and St. Louis, Missouri, the Corvette is currently built in Bowling Green, Kentucky and is the official sports car of the Commonwealth of Kentucky. The National Corvette Museum documents the car's worldwide history and hosts the annual "National Corvette Homecoming". In 2003 the Corvette, the first and only continuously-manufactured American sports car, celebrated its 50th anniversary.

Could General Motors in these crisis times to choose for a future Corvette a retro design, as they did with the new Camaro?

Christian Cyrulewski is the one who shares with the officials from General Motors an interesting perspective for a new Corvette with retro influences. The inspiration source was the third generation of the American supercar, with many stylistic elements interpreted in a modern way.

European tuners Geiger Cars have released a striking package for the new Corvette Z06, and named this model ‘Wild Thing’. The bright green color choice for the paint is definitely wild, but it’s the power numbers that were meant to impress. Geiger Cars was able to claim an astonishing 890 horsepower after their modifications, with 940 Nm of torque at 4,500 rpms. The modifications include customizing the cylinder block, head, and crankshaft which increased the displacement from 7.0-liters to 7.6-liters. They didn’t stop there however, Geiger Cars added two turbochargers to make it a biturbo (twin turbo) model. With those performance gains, the Corvette Z06 can reach an acclaimed top speed of 354 km/h.

To support all of this extra power, the transmission, drive shaft, and differential were beefed up by using cardan gears and carbon fiber. With all this power added, keeping the wheels glued to the pavement is a challenge. Geiger Cars chose to go with 285/30 tires in the front, and 345/25 in the rear mounted on thin-spoked black rims. To slow the Corvette down after reaching 354 km/h, a performance brake kit was installed that consists of 6-piston calipers in the front, and 4-piston in the rear.

McLaren Super Sports Car

The successor to McLaren F1, the MacLaren MP4-12C is built from years of experience in the supercar and Formula 1 business.

Power comes from the twin-turbo 3.8 liter V8 churning out 600 bhp and 433 lb-ft of torque. McLaren says that their engine is not only powerful, it's environmentally-responsible as well with a low carbon emission rate.

The 0-60 time will be about 3 seconds and a top speed over 200 mph. A total of 1,000 cars will be made and price will be around $265,000.

New Lexus LFA Sports Cars

The 2012 Lexus LFA is an awe-worthy piece of Japanese sports car. Only 500 of these mid-engined cars are to be hand-assembled by skilled automotive craftsmen in Japan.

The engine output from the 4.8 liter 10-cylinder powerplant is home to 562 total horses. 

The price tag of the 2012 Lexus LFA will be $375,000 U.S.

Lexus LFA Special Edition Sport Car 2012

Helping to attack the winding curves as well as maintain traction on straight roadways, high-grip tires and sport-tuned suspension will make the LFA feel complete in touch with your surroundings.

Lexus LFA Special Edition Sport Car 2012

The LFA marks a watershed point for Lexus – its global debut marks the spectacular arrival of a new flagship for the F portfolio of Lexus performance models. A Lexus that single-handedly makes new boundaries to redefine the supercar for the 21st Century.

“From the very beginning of automobile history, supercars have represented dreams, hopes and aspirations,” clarified Haruhiko Tanahashi, chief engineer of the LFA’s development program. “For Lexus, a brand that aims to provide customers enlightened moments and memorable experiences, the development of a world-class supercar was an indispensable next step”.

That indispensable next step centered on the creation of a supercar that would deliver the supreme driving experience. To achieve this uncompromising goal, Tanahashi and his team made the LFA from scratch – a right clean-sheet design. And in a radical departure from standard Lexus development practice, they approached the LFA from a non-traditional angle, pushing their technological, material and engineering boundaries at every step.

Lexus LFA Special Edition Sport Car 2012

Lexus Roadster  Sport Car

Lexus LFA Lexus LFA: The New Lexus Sports Car North American

Lexus LFA Special Edition Sport Car 2012

Lexus LFA Special Edition Sport Car 2012

Lexus LFA Special Edition Sport Car 2012

Lexus LFA Special Edition Sport Car 2012

Lexus LF A Prototype Sports Cars