Form and function are engaged in a dramatic relationship in the new 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK350 Roadster. Its sleek appearance is coupled with its V6 engine that produces 268-horse-power, and also has a torque level of 258 lb-ft. This car also uses rear-wheel drive and a standard 7-speed automatic transmission with electronically-controlled shifting, making the ride even smoother.

Fuel economy is impressive at 23 mpg on the highway, and adding to that is the fuel and ignition system, using direct ignition, a system that can boost fuel economy and add some savings at the pump.

Using an Integrated Restraint System, the ‘08 SLK350 Roadster keeps its occupants safe. The system includes front air bags, in addition to protection from side-impact and there’s also a knee airbag. Emergency Tensioning Devices, which do not deploy if safety belts aren’t fastened, are used as well, and can protect in rollovers. Tele Aid Automatic Collision keeps the lines of communication open with emergency aid, 24 hours a day.

If riding in style is a concern, look no further than this roadster. Exterior features contributing to the striking appearance include 17-inch, 10-spoke alloy wheels, a Formula 1-style nose with color-keyed grille crossfins and Electrohydraulic retractable steel hardtop. On the hardtop, one button lowers or raises the top and all four windows. There’s also convenient dual aero-blade windshield wipers and projector-beam halogen headlamps with clear high-impact lenses.

Providing comfort on the inside of this car are features like the tunnel mode, which offers one-touch closing of all windows and cabin air intake by holding the air-recirculation button. There’s also dual-zone climate control and manual sport seats with a silver-painted magnesium frame.

The 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK350 Roadster puts together a nice package of safety, power and style, making it a car that will be hard to pass up for the luxury car buyer this year.