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Mercedes-Benz has announced two new SLK Roadster models which are poles apart - a sporting diesel for the frugal minded and a red-blooded 412bhp AMG version.

From the beginning of next year a diesel motor is offered in the SLK for the first time - although one which kicks out a healthy 201bhp and is able to hit 62mph in 6.7 seconds.

Yet the factory claims the 2.1-litre engine, producing a whopping 368lb/ft of torque, will return a combined fuel economy of 56.5mpg. Neither the Porsche Boxster or BMW Z4 are currently available with a diesel engine.

Initially, the SLK250 CDI will only be offered with the 7G-Tronic Plus automatic transmission with a six-speed manual gearbox due by the middle of 2012.

At the other end of the scale, the SLK55 AMG employs a 5.5-litre V8 with 422bhp and 398lb/ft of torque to power the small car to 62mph in a supercar-matching 4.5 seconds.

Visual touches include AMG-badged body panels, rear spoiler, special alloys and twin chrome pipes for the exhaust system. Flaps alter the exhaust's acoustics depending on how hard the throttle is used.

Handling comes courtesy of AMG-tuned suspension, torque vectoring brakes to aid turn into bends and an electronic stability programme mode with 'sport handling' allowing a greater degree of rear-wheel drift for enthusiastic drivers. AMG will also offer an optional handling package with stiffer suspension, uprated brakes and a rear axle differential lock.

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