Leather upholstery comes standard on both models, along with a nine-speaker sound system with an in-dash CD player, an antitheft alarm and Tele Aid telematics, which provides emergency response service or direct connection to the nearest Mercedes dealer.
The most popular options are packaged in groups. A premium package ($1,200) includes dual-zone automatic climate control, rain-sensing wipers, automatic dimming mirrors, variable-rate power steering and an infrared remote that operates the roof. The heating package ($960) adds heated seats and forced-air vents in the headrests. The lighting package ($990) includes headlight washers and bi-xenon headlights with a beam that turns with the direction of the car for better illumination around corners. The entertainment/navigation package ($2,900) adds a stereo upgrade, six-disc CD changer and DVD-based navigation system with integrated video-screen controls.
Nearly all options are available individually, including heated seats ($690), Sirius Satellite Radio ($500), CD changer ($430), upgraded brown Nappa Leather ($400), and run-flat tires ($260). Limited designo packages ($7,950), which offer unique paint and interior color schemes, are available, including Chablis, Graphite and Espresso editions. Those who want the AMG show without all the go can choose the AMG Sport Package ($4,040) on the standard SLKs. It adds the AMG body package, lowered suspension and button-shifted automatic.
The limited-production SLK55 AMG ($61,500) is powered by a 362-horsepower, 5.5-liter V8 with an AMG Speedshift automatic that can be manually shifted with buttons on the steering wheel. The suspension is lowered and the brakes are upgraded to match the extra power. The SLK55 is easily distinguished by its AMG body tweaks and special 18-inch wheels.
Safety features on all SLK models include six airbags: frontal and side-impact bags that protect the head and thorax, and small bags that protect the knees. Active safety features such as ABS with brake assist, which automatically applies full braking force should the driver mistakenly relax pressure on the brake pedal in an emergency braking situation, come standard along with an electronic stability program that helps the driver maintain control by reducing skidding.
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