The front end was reminiscent of the Silver Arrows era and the rear trunk had additional luggage support.

[8] Optional features include remote operation of the retractable hardtop as well as an innovative forced air, neck-level heating system integral to the headrests, marketed as Airscarf.

[8] The design was aerodynamically optimized to minimize interior draughts with the top retracted and included a fabric windblocker which could be pulled up over the two roll-over bars.

[8] Mercedes marketed the R171's tapering front end styling by designer Steve Mattin as "Formula One-inspired".

It also features a restyled AMG front apron with large air intakes; additional transmission oil cooler and the high-performance steering gear oil cooler; aluminum front strut brace; new carbon fiber side air outlets; wider carbon fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP) front fenders; CFRP non-retractable hardtop; 19-inch light alloy wheels with 235/35ZR19 front and 265/30ZR19 rear Pirelli P Zero Nero tires (optional sport tires are available without extra charge); coilover suspension by KW; black pearl velour AMG sport bucket seats without side airbags; CF trunk spoiler; and carbon fibre door panel lining and trim parts.

The updated model includes a revised front bumper with a modified air-dam arrangement and a more pronounced arrow shape.

The rear end was modified by introducing a diffuser-style lower section that makes the Roadster appear more powerful when viewed from behind.

The larger exterior mirrors feature LED indicators with a pronounced arrow shape, while the range of light-alloy wheels is also almost entirely new.

The SLK 55 AMG included a new apron with a black-painted cross strut and side air outlets as well as darkened headlamps.

In particular, Road Test Editor Patrick Hong noted that the facelifted model "... with its improved manual transmission, is finally worth considering as a real sports car.