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"         For its mid-cycle facelift, the 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK model line receives minor cosmetic changes and a modest horsepower boost in the SLK350. There is a new front bumper design that calls for a split lower air dam with bigger mesh detail. The rearview mirrors feature arrow-shaped LED side indicators. The rear sports a new diffuser, trapezoidal exhaust and AMG-inspired darkened taillight (also across the entire SLK model range). Inside the car, a freshened instrument panel is complemented by a new 3-spoke steering wheel and the latest generation of audio and telematics systems.   For the SLK350, the 3.5-liter V-6 now pumps out 300 bhp and 265 lb.-ft. of torque, a bump of 32 bhp and 7 lb.-ft. of torque. The output of the previous SLK280 (now called the SLK300 for 2009) and the SLK55 AMG engine remains unchanged at 228 bhp and 355 bhp, respectively. One other major mechanical improvement across all SLK models is a direct-steer system that offers variable-speed weighting and a purely mechanical variable ratio without needing complicated electromechanical systems. Essentially, the steering rack allows for optimized ratios appropriate for lower and higher speeds.   In our brief drive in the south of France, the SLK350 proved to be an agile little roadster with excellent grip on the winding and tight turns near and around Monaco. The 3.6-liter engine may seem modest on paper but it has a great bark and is further helped by the car&amp;#039;s responsive and smooth 7G-Tronic Sport Transmission. The SLK55 AMG feels a bit pushy and high-strung because of its additional horsepower, while the SLK350 can be driven much more smoothly thanks to a better balance of power delivery and handling.   Pricing for the 2009 SLK, on sale in May, has not been formally announced. Expect it to be similar to the current models, at around $45,000 for the SLK300 and $64,000 for a top-of-the-line SLK55 AMG. "^^<http://www.w3.org/2001/XMLSchema#string>
<http://www.roadandtrack.com/new-cars/first-drives/reviews/a13846/2009-mercedes-benz-slk/>