Mercedes-Benz SLC

Mercedes-Benz SLC – Overview

From 2016, Mercedes-Benz switched to the SLC naming, potentially allowing more models under the SLn line-up, a practice now seeing fruition with the GLn SUV naming (GLA to GLS). For the 2019 Mercedes-Benz SLC, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia offered two variants initially – SLC 200 and SLC 300 AMG Line, priced at RM 376,351 and RM 442,388 respectively during the Zero-Rated GST tax-free holiday period of 2018. Original prices are some RM25,000 more.

Meanwhile, the Mercedes-AMG SLC 43 with all the performance and handling from the famed tuning brand arrived later and saw a hefty price tag of RM570,888, with the tax-free holiday reducing it by RM32,000. This price range puts it in direct competition with the usual suspects BMW Z4, Jaguar F-Type Convertible and the Porsche 718 Boxster. The Audi TT Roadster is also considered a rival.   

Mercedes-Benz SLC – Exterior

The facelifted 2019 Mercedes-Benz SLC changed the outlook of the front and rear of the original vehicle launched in 2011. Upfront, there are new, slimmer designed dual-projector LED headlights, with a redesigned diamond grille that is more steeply raked while the tinted tail lamps are slimmer, paired with a reworked bumper design with integrated exhaust tips.

The bonnet has been reprofiled too. The Mercedes-Benz SLC 200 gets the Sport styling pack with a simple black diamond grille and silver louvres, 18-inch wheels, and a front bumper design with a full-width mesh pattern grille insert. Headlamps meanwhile are the LED High-Performance units.  

On the front fenders, all Mercedes- Benz SLC models are fitted with a decorative fender vent. On the Mercedes-Benz SLC 300 AMG Line, it wears the AMG Line exterior pack with sportier front and rear bumpers, gloss black side mirrors, diamond pins with gloss black on the radiator grille and classic multispoke dual-tone AMG 18-inch wheels.

The Mercedes-AMG SLC 43 meanwhile adds ‘BITURBO’ emblems on the front fenders, red sports brake calipers and AMG aerokit that consists of a different front bumper, rear bumper and rear spoiler. Now we discuss the Mercedes-Benz SLC most important feature- the metal folding roof. 

On all three variants, the multi-panel metal and glass folding roof is colour coordinated to the main body colour. The roof does its opening and closing sequence in 20 seconds each time and the procedure can continue at up to speeds of approx. 40 km/h.

A feature that continues to be unique on the Mercedes-Benz SLC is the panoramic vario-roof with Magic Sky Control. The traditional pane where the roof is usually placed is now a large glass panel. This high-tech glass also has electrochromic properties, able to be transparent or dimmed at a touch of a button.

With the roof folded, two roll-over hoops are exposed, decorated by silver panelling and a smooth tonneau cover. Mercedes-Benz Malaysia has also equipped the SLC with the more premium Airguide built-in wind deflectors, which are well hidden behind the roll-over hoops. 

Mercedes-Benz SLC – Interior

Dashboard

Thanks to the new 9G-Tronic automatic transmission, a new shift-by-wire gear selector embossed with ‘SLC’ logo is used. Being a convertible, all switches and air conditioning vents have been coated with a satin finish to portray a higher, premium-quality look. The operation switch for the opening and closing of the convertible metal folding roof is hidden under the armrest.

Instrument cluster

Space and practicality

Like older Mercedes-Benz models, there is a storage net available for use for the passenger, affixed to the lower centre console. Boot space when the convertible of the Mercedes-Benz SLC positioned up is rated at 335 litres, one of the largest in the segment. It then reduces to a numerical value of 225 litres when the roof mechanism takes up space. However, practical space is limited to just two overnight soft bags, as the access space is also severely limited. 

Mercedes-Benz SLC – Features

Safety features

Comfort features

The Mercedes-Benz SLC 300 AMG Line also gets dual-zone automatic air-conditioning, Keyless-GO entry and start, and gloss black interior trim panels, replacing the silver weave pattern found in the SLC 200 variant. Both seats are power-adjustable with memory function. With the Keyless-GO key, you can also raise or lower the metal folding roof from the keyfob to impress your friends and prepare the Mercedes-Benz SLC for the next adventure.

Infotainment

You still select the content on the screen via the multi-axis dial commander and not via touch. In the Mercedes-Benz SLC 300, the audio system features a Harman Kardon system that features 10 loudspeakers and a 500-watt DSP amplifier. Sound logic is also well designed to deliver the best sound when the roof is positioned down. 

Mercedes-Benz SLC – Powertrain

Engine

Meanwhile, the engine displacing the same 2.0 litres in the SLC 300 AMG Line makes 245 PS/370 Nm.
Mercedes-Benz Malaysia also introduced the Mercedes-AMG SLC 43, equipped with the much-loved bi-turbocharged 3.0-litre engine offering 367 PS and 520 Nm.

Transmission

Chassis

The suspension comes with AMG-specific front and rear axles with AMG Sports suspension, engine mounts as well as rear differential. There is also an Individual mode to alter the damping firmness in the Mercedes-AMG SLC 43.

Drivetrain

Mercedes-Benz SLC – Driving Performance

Engine performance

As expected, both engine performances are reflective of their output values, with the SLC 300 more responsive thanks to the increase in torque, especially noticeable at mid-range such as overtaking or merging. The SLC 200 takes off with ease too, with the transmission keeping the engine in the right powerband for a responsive drive.

The SLC 200 is anything but underpowered. As for the Mercedes-AMG SLC 43, the numbers already tell a great story, with 0 to 100 km/h sprint completed in just 4.7 seconds. The engine also feels very pleasant around town, like a large capacity engine rather than a high-strung unit.

Full throttle with the roof down, the Mercedes-AMG SLC 43 is probably the best Mercedes-Benz to enjoy the melodic V6 engine. Exhaust burbles and pops also accompany during downshifting.

Transmission performance

However, there are certain conditions when the powertrain simply does not feel as punchy and responsive, something the BMW models seem to have the upper hand.

Steering and handling

The Dynamic Select function allows for a choice of driving modes from comfort to sport and even a setup for Individual configuration of the steering, engine and transmission response, with the Mercedes-AMG SLC 43 adding suspension value in the mix.   

Mercedes-Benz SLC – Ride Comfort

Soundproofing

Passenger comfort

Mercedes-Benz SLC – Fuel Economy

Mercedes-Benz SLC – Conclusion

Looking at the Mercedes-Benz SLC in isolation it serves its purpose well, especially in AMG Line with sporty looks and better than average performance. We also like its timeless exterior design that certainly looks even better than the updated Mercedes-Benz C-Class coupe- it has a very strange rear quarter profile.