2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK is mostly a carryover from 2009. The main change is that dual-zone climate control became standard across the lineup.
About the 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK
2nd generation (R171, 2005-2011), second year after the 2009 update and the generation’s second-to-last US model year; 2010 was the final R171 model year for the US-market SLK 55 AMG.
Mercedes-Benz positioned the SLK as a compact two-seat sports car that combined race-inspired performance with everyday usability. Its defining feature was a power-folding metal roof that changed it from a closed coupe to an open roadster in 22 seconds. Compared with softer luxury convertibles, the SLK emphasized rear-wheel-drive handling and strong engines while retaining leather seating, dual-zone climate control, and a solid roof for year-round driving.
The SLK 300 was the everyday entry point, with a 228-hp V6 and a power-folding metal roof that turned the two-seater from a closed coupe into an open roadster. The SLK 350 brought a stronger 300-hp V6, while the SLK 55 AMG topped the range with a 355-hp V8, upgraded brakes and suspension, and heated power sport seats.
What changed, by category
2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK specs and features by trim
| Feature | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | V6, 3.0 Liter | V6, 3.5 Liter | V8, 5.5 Liter |
| Transmission | Auto, 7-Spd Touch Shift | Auto, 7-Spd Touch Shift | Auto, 7-Spd SPEEDSHIFT |
| Drivetrain | RWD | RWD | RWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 18 mpg | 18 mpg | 14 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 26 mpg | 25 mpg | 22 mpg |
| Horsepower | 228 hp | 300 hp | 355 hp |
| Torque | 221 lb-ft | 265 lb-ft | 376 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 9.8 cu-ft | 9.8 cu-ft | 9.8 cu-ft |
| Seats | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| Doors | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| Alarm System | |||
| Rain Sensing Windshield Wipers | |||
| Alloy Wheels | |||
| Auto-Dimming Exterior Mirrors | |||
| Fog Lights | |||
| Rear Spoiler | |||
| Bluetooth | |||
| Navigation System | |||
| Premium Audio | |||
| Satellite Radio | |||
| Smartphone Interface | |||
| Aluminum Interior Trim | |||
| Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror | |||
| Dual Power Front Seats | |||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | |||
| Heated Front Seats | |||
| Integrated Garage Door Opener | |||
| Interior Ambient Lighting | |||
| Leather Seats | |||
| Memory Driver's Seat | |||
| Memory Front Seats | |||
| Memory Steering Wheel | |||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | |||
| Wood Interior Trim | |||
Frequently asked questions
What changed on the 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK compared with the 2009 model?
The main change for 2010 is standard dual-zone climate control across the SLK lineup. The engines, transmissions, styling, safety equipment, chassis, and infotainment otherwise carried over.
Was the 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK redesigned?
No, the 2010 SLK was not redesigned. It remained part of the second-generation R171 series and was essentially unchanged after the 2009 update.
Which versions of the 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK were offered?
The 2010 lineup consisted of the SLK 300, SLK 350, and SLK 55 AMG. All three were two-seat, rear-wheel-drive roadsters with a power-folding metal hardtop.
Did the 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK get new engines?
No, the 2010 SLK kept the prior year’s engines. The SLK 300 had a 228-hp 3.0-liter V6, the SLK 350 used a 300-hp 3.5-liter V6, and the SLK 55 AMG had a 355-hp 5.5-liter V8.
Was 2010 the final year for the SLK 55 AMG of this generation?
Yes, 2010 was the final U.S. model year for the V8-powered R171-generation SLK 55 AMG, although the broader R171 SLK generation continued for one more model year.