Mercedes SLK 2012: Caught Undisguised in New Spy Shots

The Mercedes-Benz’s SLK Roadster third generation is still under extensive development, but we’re lucky enough to have some spy shots to offer, and with no camouflage on the prototypes! Codenamed R172 and based on the new C-class platform, this up-coming SLK is due to go on sale next summer.

This new set of eye candy shows that the 2012 SLK looses the current model’s F1-inspired nose and gets a much bolder grille and more geometrically shaped headlamps, not unlike the fabulous SLS AMG Gullwing. However, Stuttgart’s Z4-fighter will continue to be a strictly two-seater roadster with a two-piece folding hardtop.

The interior is also reminiscent of the AMG, with the instrument cluster layout with two large gauges and the center console featuring twin air-vents with cruciform-style nozzles. More tweaks are sure to follow so this is far from a final design.

Engine-wise, the new 2012 SLK will probably feature a few trims, from the 1.8-liter turbocharged four-cylinder pushing out some 200-ponies and to the brand new 3.5 liter direct-injection V6 306 hp beauty seen on the CLS Shooting Brake Concept.

We’ll probably be seeing more of the car, in quality photos and with some official specs at motor shows in Detroit in January 2011 or Geneva in March 2011. Enjoy these nice spy shots of the undisguised Mercedes SLK 2012 till then.