First Impressions

Starting with its 1996 debut, the Mercedes-Benz SLK roadster has been a trendsetter. SLK was the first compact convertible with a folding hard-top and followed with innovations like AIRSCARF neck heat to make it a four-season treat. And the SLK's more affordable price allowed a whole new class of drivers to sample the pleasures of open-air motoring, Stuttgart-style.

The new 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK maintains that theme. While riding on the same 95.7-inch wheelbase, the latest SLK is styled bigger and bolder, now much closer to that of the iconic SL roadster. The same goes for the cockpit, which exhibits the muscular lines of a larger machine.

From the sporty, 3-spoke steering wheel with its flattened bottom racer's edge, to the eye-catching dials-within-dials design of its instrument cluster, and a wealth of standard brushed aluminum and optional wood trim, the SLK interior is 100 percent Benz. New comfort features include the Airguard Windstopper system.

While safety has been upgraded to include door-mounted head protection airbags. And Mercedes' new ATTENTION ASSIST drowsiness detection system.

But the most popular features are sure to be the optional panorama version of the folding hard-top. Available MAGIC SKY CONTROL switches the glass roof from clear to tinted in seconds. Other fun features include the new SLK250 model's direct-injection, turbocharged four-cylinder with 201 horsepower, and the latest SLK350's V6 pumping out 302. That, plus a retuned multi-link suspension and DIRECT STEER variable ratio steering, gives a more exhilarating driving experience.

The 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK arrives in June, with prices starting around $48,000.