New AMG sports exhaust system with integrated exhaust flaps
For the first time AMG is using a sports exhaust system featuring an exhaust flap on each side. This technology resolves the conflict of aims between an emotional sound when driving in a sporty manner and a more discreet engine note in the partial load range. The main focus of the sound design was on achieving a perfect synthesis of perceptible dynamism and the long-distance comfort that is a hallmark of Mercedes.
Each of the two rear silencers has a flap which is variably activated on a logic-controlled basis, depending on the driver’s power requirement and the engine speed. The two-pipe AMG sports exhaust system with two chromed twin tailpipes has a pipe diameter of 65 millimetres from the manifolds to the pre-silencer. The diameter is reduced to 60 millimetres from the pre-silencer to the rear silencers. Low exhaust emissions, compliance with all country-specific standards and a characteristic engine sound – the requirements for the exhaust system of the naturally aspirated AMG 5.5-litre V8 engine were manifold and complex. The SLK 55 AMG complies with the current Euro 5 emission standard, as well as meeting all of the requirements of the US market (LEV III standard, On-Board Diagnosis II).
Highly variable: the AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7G-TRONIC
Power is transferred to the rear wheels by means of the AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7G-‑TRONIC automatic transmission which features three transmission modes: Controlled Efficiency (C), Sport (S) and Manual (M). The automatic double-declutching function when downshifting as well as the brief, precisely defined interruption of ignition and injection when shifting up under full load shorten shifting times and increase emotional appeal when adopting a sporty driving style. A double turbine torsional damper with centrifugal pendulum which adapts to engine speed helps to minimise vibrations in four-cylinder operation mode and enhances the impression of comfort experienced by the vehicle occupants.
Perfect combination: highly dynamic driving style and comfortable cruising
The AMG sports suspension with Torque Vectoring Brakes and AMG Direct-Steer system provides both impressive lateral dynamics as well as agile handling, together with the comfort on long journeys which is characteristic of a Mercedes. Looking for a highly dynamic driving style or comfortable cruising? The new SLK 55 AMG is able to offer both. Independent suspension struts with stiffer spring/damper tuning, torque strut bearings on the front axle featuring higher rigidity, stiffer stabilisers all round as well as a more negative camber on the rear axle result in high cornering speeds and a low body roll in fast S-shaped bends.
In critical cornering conditions, the Torque Vectoring Brakes produce a defined rotational movement of the vehicle about the vertical axis in fractions of seconds, through selective brake actuation at the rear wheel on the inside of the bend. This results in the SLK 55 AMG steering into the bend precisely and under full control, without any compromises where dynamism is concerned. Complementing this feature perfectly is the AMG Direct-Steer system: it enhances handling and agility compared with the standard steering, whilst also reducing the amount of physical effort required when parking. A new power steering pump helps to reduce fuel consumption. The power assistance for the steering only requires energy when the driver is actually steering. In addition, the AMG Direct-Steer system has a parameter function adapted to match the characteristics of the AMG sports suspension. This results in optimum response from the central position, outstanding road feel and dynamic handling in all driving situations.
The AMG-exclusive 3-stage ESP® gives three individual control strategies at the touch of a button: the ESP® button in the centre console allows the driver to choose between “ESP ON”, “SPORT Handling Mode” and “ESP OFF”. The AMG high-performance brake system is characterised by outstanding responsiveness, short stopping distances and excellent fatigue strength.
Optional AMG Handling package for even greater driving dynamics
The optionally available AMG Handling package enhances the vehicle’s sportiness even further. It comprises an AMG Performance suspension with stiffer tuning, an AMG rear axle differential lock, composite brake discs at the front and a three-spoke AMG Performance steering wheel finished in nappa leather with Alcantara® inserts in the grip areas.
