There is also a lot of whingeing here...:-)

I am very happy (so far) with my 2001 CLK 320 Cab, incl its interior, even
tho' I sometimes glance 'enviously' at the current generation of interiors,
which look nicer (but I prefer my W208 shape over the replacement model).

DAS

For direct contact replace nospam with schmetterling
---

We bought a new SLK-200 a fortnight ago, but it is our first Mercedes.
I tried an older SLK last year, but did not like it. I do not really
remember what it was like inside.

I think the interior layout and dash of our new SLK are very good. My
wife says she would have liked a veneer surface (my reaction being to
privately thank God that there wasn't one available). I like the
restraint of the colouring and, if "cohesive" means well laid out and
everything falls easily to hand, then I would agree. If it means there
are no loose, flapping pieces, then it is correct. But of course,
there shouldn't be at the price.

As regards "inferior quality", we have not had our SLK long enough for
anything to have gone wrong. I have made a few criticisms elsewhere
(see "New SLK350 Opinions/Experiences Please" in this ng). As I say
there, I do find the interior rear view mirror very unpleasant to use
after dark, and potentially a driving hazard.

As regards your "inferior quality ... these days", I did notice (after
we had bought our SLK) a newspaper article claiming recalls by
Mercedes over the last year or so, and lower sales. No details given,
and I have forgotten the paper (a Sunday paper?).

Michael