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The 7-GTRONIC is just as happy to go down the shift map, and it’s capable of directly downshifting to an appropriate gear rather than just one at a time. From seventh gear to fifth, from fifth to third, or as many as four gears down. The long-travel throttle helps the computer decide just how much acceleration you’re demanding. Press it to the carpet and there’s even a bump stop, which then gives way when you step on it further. Use this for the absolute maximum effect. Putting all that power and 1465 kg of roadster on the pavement are wide 225/45 front and 245/40 rear tires on 17-inch wheels. The standard sports suspension provides a firm but still compliant ride. Immense stopping power is provided by the cross-drilled front, and solid rear disc brakes; they can be seen through the SLK’s five-spoke wheels, nearly filling the entire wheel diameter. Then there’s the crowd-drawing, traffic-stopping, lady passenger-pleasing vario-roof. The folding metal hardtop unfurls from the trunk to seal the cabin as tightly as any coupe’s, in a quick 22 seconds. Top up or down, the SLK looks spectacular from any angle. The SLK 200 delivered that stunning new shape and acceptable acceleration, and the 350 finally fulfills the promise of the swoopy bodywork and unflappable chassis. In testing for the Car of the Year Philippines, the SLK was best in acceleration and braking across all categories. The SLK’s transformation to true sports car is complete.
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