SPY PICS: Mid-life facelift for sporting Mercs

It's well known that Mercedes-Benz SL and SLK models are being treated to a little plastic surgery (more here), but now we have more evidence, gathered by the obssessive/compulsive Mercedes fanciers at Carparazzi.

The car pictured in white is the SLK and the nose has been visibly altered for a subtler look than before. Tail lights and front air intakes are different too, according to the spy photographers.

Mechanicals are likely to be very similar to the current offerings, but the driver of the vehicle was very anxious to conceal the dashboard, so it would appear that the SLK will feature revised interior fittings.

The SLK is believed to be scheduled for launch at the Geneva Motor Show in March of next year.

We've already shown you pics of the alleged Mercedes SLC (more here), but the silver car pictured here is the SL with the folding steel roof, said to be the basis for the SLC.

As far as facelifts go, the changes are extensive, according to the Carparazzi blokes. An all-new front end will comprise changes to bumper, grille, air intakes and headlights -- the last likely to reflect the styling theme of the CLS hardtop sedan. Tail lights and the rear bumper look to have been revised also. 

The SL's mechanicals are unlikely to change in any significant way, although the SL 55 AMG is likely to be replaced by the SL 63 AMG variant.

-- with Carparazzi