After a few years and a big impact on the sport-compact premium segment, the SLK 55 AMG received a facelifted version in 2008.
The improvements were needed, the engine had to be reworked since there were new emission regulations that started in 2008. As a result, Mercedes-Benz decided to change more elements, not only to improve the V8 unit under the hood.

From the outside, the 2008 model was introduced with a new apron in the front, with a pronounced trapezoidal-shaped, middle grille. A new set of light-alloy wheels were installed, with improved design and better cooling capability. The taillights were changed, with a clear middle line for the reversing lights. The non-facelifted version featured smoked lenses.

The interior was slightly updated, with a new steering wheel and a new center console. Behind it, two aluminum shift-paddles were installed for manually change the gears. For the center display, between the tachometer and speedometer, there was a new function. In “M” mode, the AMG main menu was able to display the selected gear, including an upshift indicator, as well as the engine oil temperature, the battery voltage, or the RACETIMER feature, which kept records of the lap-times.

Under the hood, there was a revised version of the 5.4-liter unit to comply with the new, 2008, emission regulations from Europe. The AMG announced that the new software for the 7-Speed gearbox was 10% faster than before.