With its distinctive front end inspired by Formula 1 cars, its sporty low stance, and its powered drop top, the 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK280 is popular with car drivers who appreciate the luxury appointments of a Mercedes combined with the underpinings of a fast, fun roadster. The German automaker made few changes to the car for 2007 (following its introduction a year earlier), but the SLK280 still offers plenty to put a smile of the face of any discerning driver who seeks an exhilarating driving experience.

Power is provided by a 3.0-liter, 24-valve, double-overhead-cam V6 engine that produces 228 horsepower. A fully synchronized six-speed manual transmission with a short-throw shifter is standard, while a seven-speed automatic with electronically controlled shifting is optional.

For open-air driving, the roadster is equipped with an electrohydraulic power-retractable folding steel hardtop that operates at the touch of a single button on the console as well as on the SmartKey remote controller. The driver can also raise and lower all windows, along with the top, at the touch of the button.

The SLK280 is equipped with such features as an Electronic Stability Program, all-speed traction control, power-assist rack-and-pinion steering, anti-lock brakes, and Brake Assist, which provides maximum emergency braking in potentially dangerous situations.

Inside, the SLK280 has all the expected luxury appointments, including eight-way manual leather sport seats, a leather-trimmed three-spoke sport steering wheel and shift knob, velour carpeting, a dual-zone climate control system, power windows, electronic cruise control, and an AM/FM stereo system with a CD player.

The SLK280's handling, acceleration, reliability, comfort, and exterior styling were all cited by drivers as among the car's positive points. However, some drivers noted the interior could be noisy, while others noted they wished the cars had more standard features that are now options.