Spy Shots: 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK AMG sounds like a V8?

Jonathon Ramsey — Tue, 13 Jul 2010 13:01:00 EST

Filed under: Spy Photos, Convertible, Performance, Mercedes-Benz, Luxury

2012 Mercedes SLK AMG - Click above for high-res image gallery

And even the least of them shall not be forgotten. After catching the Mercedes-Benz GL and C-Class Coupe parading around in camouflage last week, our shooters have caught the next-generation SLK AMG out and about. The roadster appears set to receive the upright, SLS-inspired projecting grille being spread throughout the family, and there will undoubtedly be some LEDs in those headlight clusters. The mirror stalks move to the doors and there are quad pipes out back, but based upon what we see here, that's a pretty tame sill skirt for an AMG model.

Under the hood, our shooter said he heard what sounded like a naturally aspirated V8, not the twin-turbo V6 that's been rumored before. Either way, word still persists that there will be a jump of 100-plus horsepower, from the current ~~330~~ 355 to a possible 476. Inside will be more touches from the SLS for an overdue lifting of the SLK's cabin game. We should see it naked and roaring some time next year. Have a look at it for now in our gallery of high-res photos below.

Gallery: Spy Shots: 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK AMG

[Source: CarPix]

Spy Shots: 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK AMG sounds like a V8? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 13 Jul 2010 13:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Spy Shots: Fiat 500 Abarth SS

Siddharth Raja — Tue, 18 Sep 2007 15:32:00 EST

Filed under: Spy Photos, Hatchback, Fiat

Before you overlook the Fiat 500 Abarth SS as just another sporty hatch that will be sold in a few select European markets, note that it could be sold in the U.S. as well as Asia-Pacific as an alternative to cars like the MINI Cooper. In July, Fiat boss Sergio Marchionne hinted that selling the 500 outside of Europe was a definite option, although nothing has been confirmed.

Abarth is now a performance line for Fiat models and the new 500 Abarth SS and its larger Fiat Grande Punto Abarth SS sibling are set to arrive in European showrooms early next year. These new spy shots depict the Fiat 500 Abarth SS, a hot little hatch with a 1.4L turbocharged engine developing a rumored 180 HP, the same amount as the larger and heavier Punto version. There will also be a sports handling pack to make sure owners can take advantage of the extra bump in power, with stiffer springs and wider tires than the base 500.

To differentiate it from the 500 minicar on which it's based, developers have also added new bumpers with larger air intakes, a set of hood scoops, a roof mounted spoiler and dual exhaust pipes.

[Source: Auto Motor Und Sport]

Spy Shots: Fiat 500 Abarth SS originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 18 Sep 2007 15:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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