When Mercedes unveiled the Mercedes SLK->ke1683 back in 1996 it proved to be a very successful model. Then, the Merceds received a facelift in the second generation back in 2004 that left us with a revised body and enhanced performance. This second generation SLK went on to considered one of Car and Driver's Ten Best and won the Canadian Car of the Year's Best New Convertible award. Unfortunately, it seems we have arrived at another fork in the road that can leave a withering SLK or allow it to transform, yet again, into the popular vehicle it once was. Mercedes seems to have chosen the latter route and recent spy shots reveal some pretty impressive changes.

Of course, the brand new SLS AMG will serve as model for the next generation Mercedes SLK. We also noticed that Mercedes->ke187 has decided to ditch the F1 nose. That, together with a less optical tapered rectangular grille, a large chrome bar, and an optional glass roof leave us pretty satisfied with the model.

The SLK will welcome a diesel engine for the first time and in 2012 with also see a four-cylinder 2.1 twin-turbo engine producing 204 hp and 500 Nm. The SLK 250 CDI will be well equipped to tease the Audi TT Roadster->ke1081 TDI and Alfa Romeo Spider. A SLK 350 CGI will be powered by the new 306 hp V6 engine and will aim at models like the BMW Z4->ke289.

The new SLK will be revealed by the end of the year and sales will begin in early 2011.

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