Mercedes-Benz SLK-55 AMG set to be launched in India

Iconic German manufacturer, Mercedes-Benz, is continuing its aggressive approach towards the Indian car market as the brand is planning to introduce yet another model. After the launch of C-Class Edition C, the company is reportedly bringing in SLK-55 AMG in India on 2nd December 2013. The differences between the regular model and SLK-55 AMG lie in appearance (both exterior and interior) and some technological features. Notably, engine configuration of both cars remains the same.

Touted as the sportier version of the regular SLK model, the AMG variant shall be powered by the naturally aspirated 5.5-litre V8 engine that develops almost 420 bhp of power alongside maximum torque of 540 Nm. With this massive engine, the car can power itself from 0 kmph to 100 kmph in just 4.6 seconds. However, top speed of SLK-55 AMG will be electronically restricted to around 250 kmph, sources have claimed. In terms of transmission, the engine will be mated to a AMG Speedshift 7G-Tronic Plus automatic gearbox. In order to cater the different moods of the driver, Mercedes-Benz has given three modes on the car, namely Controlled Efficiency, Sports and Manual. Some of the other mechanical tweaks include AMG sport suspension, performance oriented Torque Vectoring Brake and AMG Direct-Steer system.

Talking about exterior changes, Mercedes-Benz SLK-55 AMG gets restructured front and rear bumpers and side skirts. Furthermore, the company has also given a mesh grille and 18-inch AMG alloys with AMG sports exhaust. On the interiors, the car gets Nappa leather, aluminium and carbon fibre inserts.

Going by the European specification model, the SLK-55 AMG is almost 30 per cent more fuel efficient than last generation model. Apart from being fuel efficient, the SLK-55 AMG is quite low on emissions as it produces 195 g/km. According to trade analysts, Mercedes-Benz SLK-55 AMG would be offered in a ex-showroom price range of Rs. 1.3 crore to Rs. 1.4 crore.

The upcoming roadster of Mercedes-Benz shall be provided with a retractable hardtop, lower ground clearance and large air take system. Like other roadster models, SLK-55 AMG gets typical long front end with the seating for the passengers given close to the rear-axle.

Currently, the AMG line-up of cars include E-63, C-63, G-63 and SLS AMG coupe apart from the roadster model of the same. After the launch of SLK-55 AMG, the tally for these vehicles will further stretch to six. Once launched, SLK-55 AMG is expected to compete with cars like Porsche Cayman S, Jaguar F-Type and Audi R8.

AMG is a performance oriented division of Mercedes-Benz that is particularly known for tuning cars in order to derive more power and torque. Apart from mechanical changes, AMG also customises the exteriors and interiors of the car to give them a sporty look. The launch of SLK-55 AMG will be the third addition in performance division of Mercedes-Benz as it also introduced G63 Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV) and E63 sedan earlier this year.

Categories: Mercedes Benz