For the first time since the introduction of the SLK sporty roadster, Mercedes is offering a diesel engine for it.

The 2012 Mercedes SLK 250 CDI gets the firm’s 2143 cc four-cylinder diesel which generates 150 kW (204 hp) and 500 newton metres of torque. Connected to the 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission, this engine enables the car to make 100 km/h from standstill in 6.7 seconds and reach a top speed of 243 km/h.

Because of the enormous amount of torque this diesel engine makes, the car has excellent in-gear acceleration. It goes from 80 to 120 km/h in just 4.3 seconds, and that makes overtaking such an effortless job.

The real beauty of it though, is fuel economy. The SLK 250 CDI needs just 4.9 litres of diesel fuel per 100 kilometres (NEDC combined consumption), which corresponds to CO2 emissions of 128 g/km. To achieve this, the car features fourth-generation common-rail injection with a rail pressure of 2000 bar and precise injection timing, as well as two-stage turbocharging and start/stop system as standard.

The same options and equipments for the rest of the range is also offered with the diesel SLK, including the MAGIC SKY CONTROL roof, and the choice of three different suspension systems. Mercedes SLK 250 CDI goes on sale from 13 September 2011, starting at € 41,828.50 including VAT in Germany.