AMG’s V8-powered SLK55 roadster is to be axed, replaced by a 3.0-litre twin-turbo version set to be unveiled at January’s Detroit Motor Show.

It’s another blow for fans of the atmo bent-eight, following the likes of the BMW M3/M4 and Audi’s RS4 in abandoning cubic capacity for a forced-induction six-cylinder.

The SLK55 is the only Mercedes to use a naturally-aspirated version of AMG’s M157 5.5-litre V8 and the small sales volumes do not justify continued production.

Mercedes amg slk55 engine

It will be powered by a high-output version of the 3.0-litre bi-turbo V6 currently found in the recently released Mercedes-AMG GLE450 Sport and soon-to-arrive C450 Sport.

While it won’t quite match the SLK55’s 310kW, it would be unlike AMG to step too far backwards, so expect around 300kW/550Nm with a soundtrack and driving dynamics to match.

Mercedes amg slk55 badge