Mercedes SLK55 AMG: Edmunds on a Mercedes roll

Jim McGraw must be on vacation in Germany. Or Edmunds invested wisely so the auto journalist could not only bring us the world premiere of the CLS55 AMG but also the first drive of the SLK55 AMG. The good looking roadster continues the company's new trend of sticking out from the crowd with its design. The large Mercedes symbol in the middle of two aviation-styled grill intakes is the stand-out feature on the outside, while a 5.5 liter V8 is the major performance element inside. 355 horsepower and 376 pound feet of torque is a superb mix and will turn all Porsche Boxster S owners green with envy. Unfortunately the engine is matched to a seven-speed automatic with manual control on the steering wheel and shifter. Even without a manual transmission this beast is a beauty too. Enjoy the pictures below.