Currently reading: Mercedes SLK AMG: first pics

First spy pictures of the new Mercedes SLK AMG in action

These are the first spy pictures of the new Mercedes SLK AMG in action.

Codenamed R172, the new SLK is being brought into line with Mercedes’ future styling direction, recently introduced by new design chief Gorden Wagener.

See the first spy pics of the Mercedes SLK in action

This car’s relatively light disguise cannot hide the switch to a large, trapezoidal front grille, as seen on the recently launched SLS AMG supercar and the F800 Style Geneva motor show concept.

The rear spoiler is similar in style to that on the SLS. And the rectangular patch just behind the front wheel arch probably covers a side vent, another cue from the range-topper.

The larger wheels and brakes, more aggressive air intake on the front spoiler and the quad-exhaust tips at the rear give this model’s identity as the AMG variant away.

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The successor to the current SLK55 is likely to use the same V8 powerplant as the C63 AMG, with 457bhp — but a new 3.5-litre direct-injection V6 petrol’s, which will make its debut in the S-class this autumn, modular design would allow twin-turbocharging, potentially freeing up similar power levels as the V8 but with lower emissions.

Our spy photographer claimed the model spied here had the engine note of a V8.

Whatever its engine, the AMG variant will take the SLK to almost £60,000, around the same as the base specification of the next-generation, aluminium-construction SL.

Pics: CarPix

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