Mercedes-Benz SLK III (R172) gallery (2011–2016)
The third-generation SLK R172 roadster was built from 2011 to 2016, introducing the Magic Sky Control electrochromic roof.
The third generation of the Mercedes-Benz SLK (R172) debuted in January 2011 during Mercedes' 125th anniversary celebrations. The design departed from the F1-nose look of its predecessor, taking cues from the SLS AMG and classic R107 SL with an upright front grille. The R172 introduced Magic Sky Control, an optional electrochromic panoramic glass roof that could switch between transparent and darkened states at the touch of a button.
Engine choices included 1.8-liter and 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinders (SLK 200, SLK 250), a 3.5-liter V6 (SLK 350 with 306 hp), and for the first time in an SLK, a diesel option in the SLK 250 CDI (204 hp). The performance SLK 55 AMG featured a naturally aspirated 5.5-liter M152 V8 producing 422 hp with cylinder deactivation technology. In 2016, a major mid-cycle facelift led to the renaming of the model line to the SLC-Class.
