New slk spy photo

[Hanniep]

The current Mercedes-Benz SLK55 AMG is no slouch, producing 355 horsepower and 376 pound-feet of torque from its 5.5-liter V-8. However, with the introduction of BMW’s not-quite-M-spec Z4 sDrive35is, Stuttgart might be feeling a bit of pressure to enhance its little roadster/monster, which is where these spy shots come in. This is a prototype of the next-generation SLK AMG, set to debut around 2012.

The quad exhausts, big brakes, and subtle rear spoiler are clear indications that this car has been touched by AMG. The new SLK looks to be getting a styling similar to the rest of the Mercedes range, with clear influences from the SLS AMG most noticeable in the headlights, taillights, and front grille.

The rumor mill is talking about V-6s and V-8s, both fitted with a pair of turbochargers, but according to our spy shooter, based on engine note, this car was packing a V-8. Whether it was the current car’s 5.5-liter, the larger AMG-spec 6.2-liter, or an all new, force-induced engine remains to be seen.

Looking at these different scenarios, we can speculate that if the current 5.5-liter is fitted, we can expect at least 355 horsepower. If the 6.2-liter is under the hood, based on the output of the C63 AMG (the lowest power application of this motor), 450 horsepower isn’t out of the question. If it is some sort of new biturbocharged motor, power could be just about anywhere.

Expect the SLK AMG to debut under 2012.

[Stiggs]

It will be interesting to see what the final product looks like. I've always been a fan of the SLK, it's just too small for me though.

Imagine that car with the 6.2L engine! Oh man!