Used 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class Consumer Reviews

With a manual gearbox, it's Magic!

This review concerns a 2006 Mercedes SLK350 with a 6-speed manual transmission and 41,000 miles. It is in like-new condition. The SLK350 is a great car. The build quality is excellent. Even after fifteen years there is not a creak or squeak. The trunk is surprisingly large, which is good because there is very little stowage space in the cabin. Thanks to the wide doors, ingress / egress is easy. The manual transmission is one of the best I have ever shifted and the Voop! the exhaust makes when I double-clutch it is music. If you want a real sports-car experience, take the time to find an SLK350 with a manual gearbox. They imported few of them to America and stopped making them after 2007. Less-powerful SLKs with manual gearboxes were produced for a few more years. It drives beautifully. The footing is sure at any speed and on any decent road. Cornering is phenomenal. Breaking is the best. The engine is silky smooth, maybe even too quiet. Torque, like a bad dinner guest, comes early and never leaves. Keep an eye on the tachometer to be sure you don-t over-rev. The motor gives you all you ask of it. The car will cross 60 miles per hour in five seconds, with a top speed over 160. Don’t do that on a public road. At legal speeds, in any gear, it wants to go. Yet, it can be as quiet and docile as a sedan if that is how you want to drive it. The cruise control is intuitive and dead-on accurate. Get the air-scarf seats. Just about everything else comes standard. How does it compare with the earlier SLK320 and SLK230? I had two of the 230s. Fun little cars. But not in the same league with the SLK350. Everything is better. I have owned many sports cars over the years and six Mercedes. This is by far my favorite.

Sweet!

This is my first Mercedes and I love it. I look forward to going to work so I can drive it. Great power and handling. Turns on a dime, and stops in no time. Need to be careful, even with the top down it is easy to get over the speed limit without even noticing. Love the retractable top. Great sound system with the upgrade and neck scarf is nice. Gets surprisingly good gas mileage, I get 25+ mpg on my drive to work as long as the top is up and 22- 23 with the top down.

Its what you expect from Mercedes

This is the second SLK I've owned and they get better each time. Fuel economy is 6.5L/110km that's 35 miles/g. The conv roof is slick, performance is wonderful. I'd highly recommend the worlds first 7 speed tranny.

Looks fast and is!

Bought this car used with 12K miles on it. My previous car was a BMW M3. This car blows away the M3. The handling is unbelievable and accelerator very responsive. The 7- speed manual mode shifting is fun, but use the automatic when every day commuting. I can't say enough good things about this car. It's performance is as good as its looks!

Never again

Cute car for wife. Build quality not what I expected for a Mercedes-Benz. Expensive to maintain. Took in for 12000 mile check up and left with a $351.77 bill with new wipers. The doors sound tinny when closing. The defoster only runs on high and is noisy.

Cute but dangerous. Be Careful.

This is my third Benz in as many years. Had the SLK 320, SL 500, now SLK 350. Unfortunately, I already rear ended a Lincoln Towncar in LA. The anitlock brakes locked and I slid 300 feet going 45 mph. Mercedez denies this but the skid marks proved the brakes locked. Did zero damage to the Lincoln but $10K damage, 6 weeks in shop, to my SLK. The front is entirely plastic save the hood, but that plastic is incredibly pricey. No engine damage. Later going 10 miles per hour and slammed brakes and skidded. This car does not want to stop, too light. Be careful - stay back. Tried to upgrade to Nav system, 6 disk CD, and iPod integration. ALL are factory, no upgrades.

Never again

There are problems with the switch that allows the top to go up and down. The glove box in the center is broken more than fixed. The handling is poor at best. Not what you would expect for the price, I am going back to PORSCHE.

Almost perfect

Besides not being able to find exactly what options I wanted in the color I wanted I absolutely love this car, I just didn't feel like waiting 3-4 months. I really wanted to at least test drive a 6 speed manual but no dealers in my area had one in stock or even on order, strange huh. But I have to admit the 7 speed auto is pretty responsive, especially in sport/ summer mode. I wasn't looking to get the Airscarf but now I wouldn't have one without it. We recently took a 2 day trip and came over the Sierra's at night with the top down, temps in the 20's and we were quite cozy. It was AWESOME being able to see the stars.

I love this car

This is the only car I've ever had that makes me laugh when I drive it cause it's just so much fun to drive...and it's so very beautiful. I don't even mind sitting in Los Angeles traffic -- well, except when I'm stuck behind some truck blowing smoke in my face when the top is down. My car is black on black, and I call it "Black Beauty." I especially enjoy the neck warmer so that I can take advantage of the hard-top convertible even when it gets cooler at night. If you don't want attention, this car isn't for you cause people sure do notice it. :-)

I love my SLK!

I just got my SLK and LOVE it! Its exterior is so sharp, and the car is so fun to drive. (I'm one of those crazy "have to have a manual" for fun factor!) I look forward to warm weather and being able to drive with the top down. The car is quiet. I love having the navigation system and the stereo upgrade. I don't know about the reliability as the car is so new. Vroom!

Awesome!

If you're shy don't get this -- it's definitely an attention getter. It's an awesome car. The ride is stiff and depending on your road conditions, you will feel it. No problems at all on the highway though -- nice and smooth. I also find the middle and back compartments a bit hard to get at. It is low to the ground so can be hard to get out of for some. Not thrilled with COMAND controls -- my other car (BMW 528) is much more intuitive and I agree with Arisdad that the panel is better on the BMW. Understeer is more pronounced than I expected. These are of course all very minor complaints. The car is exactly what you expect but a lot more fun.

SLK350

No longer a "chick car", the SLK 350 is now a worthy competitor in the sports car arena. It is a decent blend of sports car purism, a la Honda S2000, and grand tourer, a la its older sibling, the SL500. Great to look at, fun to drive - a real head-turner.

Got to have it

WOW!! I have looked and driven many different cars, but this tops the charts. It's styling, performance, and the hard top says it all. I had several cars that I was comparing for this purchase, but the SLK350 had everything. Spend the little extra to get the heated seat package, well spent money when top is down in the cool weather. Very quite with top on, but unbelieveably quite when top is off. Seats I was worried from past reviewers would not be comfortable, but have to say they are built the way they should be and with the heat on I feel pampered, even having back troubles. I say go for it, you won't be disappointed; and if anything you'll find excuses for going out for a drive.

SLK-Size doesn't matter

The new SLK-series body turns heads no matter where you go. The lines on the car for the price are the best that I have seen from any other car manufacturer. As for the motor, the 350 delivers a sufficient 268 hp which might seem small at first, however once in the cockpit of this rocket, you will be shot forward once the gas pedal is pressed. Many view this car as a "woman" car, however whoever declares this will probably not be bale to keep up with you. I am very pleased with my SLK350 and would advise anyone who is considering a mildly priced sports car to give it a test drive. Being in the market for a sports car, I considered the Z4, and G35, however the SLK was a no-brainer.

SLK3550

Vehicle is a great handling car. Layout internally is outstanding. The response of the top is very good. The gas mileage is better than I expected, but is not real good. GPS was hard to understand at first but after using it a few times it has been great. Styling outside is terific, gret lines. Very happy with this automobile.

Definite winner

This is the first sporty car I've had since my 1973 911T. Needless to say, that car set a high standard. The SLK exceeded my expectations. Not a "chick car", the MB handles and performs like a real sports car. Plus, it's comfortable for a tall driver (6'5"). Don't know yet about the reliability, but I'm hoping the R171 platform has it designed in. Daimler really got it right with this one!

Worth every Penny!

I have owned my SLK55 for a little less then a year. I traded in my 2001 Porsche 911 Turbo for this AMG beast. It handles like it is on rails, and accelerates with flawless shifting without ever missing a beat. Easier to maintain than any other super car out there! If you can get yourself into one, you won't regret it.

Fun Ride

A really fun car. Great handling with a smooth, powerful engine. There seem to be some rattles coming from behind the seats that others have complained about too.

So you want fast...

I can't tell you all the fun I've had so far. The SLK 350 is so fast with 7 speed auto trans. We all know the 0 to 60 mph in 5.5 sec but how about this 60 to 90 in 3.2 sec!! Wow, this car is a dream for under $50k

Great Car

Love the car, great performance, fun to drive. Recommend spending extra to get the entertainment package really worth the $'s. Also recommend the ipod kit. Nice to have all that music available in such a great car. This car will perform when pushed and the sound from the engine is thrilling. Con-watch out for speed bumps and curb stoppers. the front cowl is low and it is easy to bump without knowing.

06 SLK 350

I love this car the performance is awesome. It doesn't hurt when you are constantly getting compliments

SLK350 is Great!

I bought this car as a toy for driving this spring and summer. So far it has been nothing short of wonderful.

SLK350 Review

The car is great, engine is smooth and plenty of power. The extra cash for the 3.5L vs. the 3.0L is well worth it if you understand performance. The sound from the dual exhausts make you feel you are driving a car that normally costs twice as much! Yes, it is a little car, but once you're behind the wheel, you will feel like you are in control of a monster on wheels! I recommend this vehicle for anyone that is looking for fun but also enjoys getting the looks from jealous drivers in their tame sedans as you pass them by. Get one, you won't regret it!

Should have gotten it sooner!

I have the 6 speed manual 350, and everytime I get in the car, I can't help but smile. This car is such a joy to drive. The AirScarf option bascially makes this car an all season convertible, not just for summer. People look at you funny when driving in the middle of winter with the down down, but with heated seats and warm air blowing on your neck from the headrest, it is extremely comfortable. Wind noise is minimal, you can have a pleasant conversation with the top down driving 70 mph on the freeway. The free car wash at the dealership is an awesome service, never having to wash my car ever again!

Best Roadster in the 50k Range

Pro: Very stylish and elegant. I have the silver one with red interior. The SLK 350 feels very solid on the road. Mine has the 6M and it is fun and easy to drive. Cons: The navigation unit failed once, the dealer replaced it with a new one, it has been working fine since.

I want to live in it.

It is the prettiest and the most satisfying car I've ever driven. Exhilirating straight away, in curves, uphill, downhill and just sitting still.

You deserve it! (Buy it - don't lease it)

Great car! Fun to drive. Convertible is open in less than 25 seconds. Heat scarf in head-rest lets you keep warm with the top down when the air is cool. Don't lease it - do the math and buy it!

Great Looking Car With Performance

Great looking car that turns heads. Lots of great comments about the design of the car. I had a 350Z before this car and always wanted a convertible but didn't want a rag top and didn't like the design of the older SLK's. The new SLK350 was the answer with design and the retractable top. Great handling on mountain roads and on the freeways.

fun to drive lots of torque

high cost of repairs

This car spared my life

I had my 2006 SLK350 for many years. It was a wonderful car. I enjoyed the look and handling of this car immensely. Five months ago, I was in an accident and totaled my beautiful little car. Although I was injured during the accident, and five months later, I’m still not able to walk without assistance, I have been told that it was the outstanding safety features in this car that saved me from possible death. The car did exactly what it was designed to do. I am in the market for another one, because I have so much confidence in the safety features of this beautiful, fun and exciting car!

I love this car!

I haven't had a car that made me laugh when I drive it since my Triumph in high school. It is beautiful, handles like a dream and is a blast to drive on the open road or in Los Angeles traffic.

Pure Power

I pressed the pedel, and power came calling. I moved the steering wheel, and moved around a dime. Everyone has a positive opinion of how great my car looks. The cockpit fits like a custom fit glove! Now the first payment is due, ah well who is better then ME! (My wife) It's worth it. Pure!

SLK350

I love the car it handles great. It has a lot of power & great pick up speed which makes it great for getting in & out of traffic. It also turns on a dime. For a 2 seater it is very comfortable. I love the car!

2006 SLK280

I recently traded in my BMW 328is for the Mercedes slk280. I looked into the BMW z4, Porsche boxster, and the Mercedes CLK in addition to the SLK. Besides some very minor interior design detail flaws the car is a perfect match. The dealership was a major factor in purchasing. Since BMW left me with a sour taste due to their poor customer service in the repair department. I chose the Mercedes which ranked in my opinion neck and neck with the z4. Mercedes service and responsiveness was out of this world. The entire transaction was effortless and w/o a doubt a fine deal all around. Absolutely no regret. SLK280 w/stand. Trans was more than powerful. The automatic version wasn't as fun.

It's worth the price

My wife had a SLK 320 and I never liked it; I am very small but feel cramped in it. I don't feel that way with the SLK 350. It no longer looks like a chic car. Handling is much better and it does feel sporty. All the creak and groan are gone with the top up. Top folding and raising are much faster than the SLK 320. The freeway milage is surprising (27.4). Some people may like more storing space but I think the CD changer in the glove box is more convenient. The flip top features of the arm rest is also convenient. The automatic partial rolling down of the windows may help to prevent the leaking of the door weather strips (as in the SLK 320).

The New Mercedes SLK Class

After testing many convertibles, it was easy to go back to the Mercedes dealership (check in hand) and make my purchase. The fun-to-drive feature can't be beat, but the combined with safety and overall performance make the SLK-Class truly a "best in class" vehicle. And of course, the little Mercedes insignia on my keychain is pretty cool too. Let's face it, when you're buying a luxury converible, it's kinda cool to know you're driving a Benz!

Fantastic fun top up or down

I ordered my car to obtain the options I wanted especially a manual trans. I also got the AMG kit and sports suspension. The car is a true sports car in this configuration and handles exceedingly well. The interior is thoughtfully laid out and well appointed. The manual is new for the redesigned SLK and has solid and short throws. Ultimately though the car was purchased for its fantastic hardtop convertible feature. With the top up it is very quiet but 22 seconds later you are enjoying a great convertible. If you keep the windows raised and use the wind blocker you can drive comfortably down into the 40 degree range. I did get the airscarf and it in NOT a gimmick. It is a must have.

Frank V.

The 2006 SLK has great styling, and the good looks of it's bigger brother, the SL series. I enjoy its "Bat Man" face, ease of convertible top operation, and other "systems" as well. It is a good value and a fun machine to drive on a daily basis, assuming you have another vehicle to do the "work" when need be, such as our ML series SUV. Frank Vranicar

SLK280

This car is really fun to drive. It handles well in the curves without being too harsh, and the 7 speed auto works well with the 2.8 litre engine. Good blend of power and mileage - about 24 mpg in town and 30 on the freeway. It has more head room than the Lexus SC 430 and the trunk fits our largest suitcase, even with the top down - not bad for a little car. Air scarf and heated seats work great. Standard radio is fair, and the stock Michelin Pilot Primacy tires are noisy. Everythng works perfect. I love the exterior appearance, top up or down, and the gray interior looks sharp. This car makes going to work, running errands, and seeking out scenic, windy roads a lot of fun.

Honey I am going to the Store Again!

This is the best car I have owned! I had a certain level of expectation that the car would be really good but the SLK 350 far exceed my expectations! I am 6'4" and fit in the car just fine. The car has very responsive sports car ride. The interior is just as impressive as the exterior. Instrumentation and electronics are spectacular! The extras are well worth the money, preset power seats between my wife and I, key controlled remote for the top outside the car, cruse control sets to the exact speed. The neck scarf is a must. The gas mileage is much better than I expected! The car is very quiet with the top up and very little wind noise with the top down! Clearly the best!

Best Convertible

At 3k miles, only minor driverside window prob. Interior easily marks up / difficult to clean. Great car -- I believe that's why I bought one. Guys drool at it and women admire it. Sporty, classy and fun.

Awesome Red Screamer

After putting 3k miles on my new SLK280 I must say Im enjoying it more and more each time I drive. Only drawback is the seats. No lumbar support and the big drawback, very non ambient stereo. Wish it would have come with at least a basic base system. No way to upgrade according to Mercedes. Otherwise, fun car and sharp looking.

76

I love the car it is very comfortable and I enjoy driving it. The top is amazing to see go up and down. We will have to take it to the shop to see what the wine is in the engine, but I am hoping that it is nothing serious. We do have a warranty on it so hopefully whatever it is it will not cost us anything it only had 10 thousand miles on it when we purchased it his month I do love it

Great Car/Head Turner

Great value for a Mercedes roadster. Better than the cheaper version "Saturn". I'm happy with my purchase. Hardtop convertible is awesome.

Perfect Commuter

I spend over an hour each way commuting five times a week. My SLK350 is perfectly suited to handle bumper to bumper, open highway, and pleasure cruising. Top down, windows up it's nearly as quiet as top up. This car also saved me from a near collision with two deer late one night with strong night vision and panic-sure maneuverability at 65+ mph. The cockpit layout is very ergonomic and the controls easy to use without taking eyes from the road. I have liked many previous cars, but the SLK350 is my first-time love affair.

Nice convertible

We purchased this as a 3rd car, primarily for weekend use, but I find myself driving it evenings also, just tooling around. It's a blast, drives great, turns heads with the top up or down (and especially when it is being retracted). Solid engine, perfect "rumble," seats are comfortable, great stereo, nice handling, etc. It is a great-looking car, and a lot of fun!

A fun car to own

We got the car delivered in October and there was still some season left to enjoy the "topless" ride. The air scarf makes this convertibe fun to drive even by temperatures are in the 50'es. We use the car only as a fun toy when the weather is right. A hardtop/convertible is the way to go. The trunk space is limited and makes shopping sprees more afordable.

Fun Car

Very Happy

After many Acura NSX leases, I came back to the SLK 350 of '06. It's less expensive, but more comfortable, and I've already had comments from strangers. The diamond silver (baby blue) with ash interior is a knockout. Spend extra on the remote roof control and wood trim interior. The automatic transmission is very smooth. Remember to tell your dealer to skip their advertising on the car. It looks better without it.

qquality

117000miles....5 years of ownership....biggest repair cost has been front brakes...great car..terrible in Winter