New Mercedes SLK250 CDI roadster is frugal on fuel
Posted By RichC on November 21, 2011
Small Volkswagen and Audi TDIs in North America could always use a little more competition … how about an attractive diesel roadster with both performance and fuel efficiency from Mercedes? The 47mpg SLK250 CDI.
Mercedes’ newest SLK roadster combines thrilling performance, classic sportscar proportions, and (most relevant from our purposes) incredible fuel economy figures: try 47 miles for each gallon of diesel!
The SLK250 CDI is powered by Mercedes’ latest turbocharged, 4-cyl. diesel, which puts 204 hp and nearly 370 lb-ft of torque to the ground through a 7-speed automatic transmission. That engine/transmission combination hurls the sporty roadster from a standstill to 60 mph in under 6.7 seconds, en route to a top speed of more than 150 mph – not bad, in other words, for a car that nearly matches the legendary Geo Metro‘s fuel economy!
Mercedes’ SLK250 CDI marks the first time the German carmaker has put one of its diesel engines to work in one of its roadsters. Considering Mercedes’ history of building super-fast, diesel-powered prototypes and project cars, however, it may not be the last.
In addition to the high-mpg diesel, the new SLK250 CDI is available with Mercedes’ panoramic Magic Sky Control roof, as well as an available “Dynamic Handling Package” that includes the the company’s Direct-Steer system and Torque Vectoring Brakes, developed “for particularly agile and predictable handling characteristics.”
European pricing is set at just under 42,000 Euros. No word yet on US availability and pricing. <= Of course!
Source: Gas 2.0 (http://s.tt/137e9)
Comments