What's New
The 2020 Mercedes-Benz SLC-Class is in its final year, with a Final Edition special package available on both trims. The market for two-door retractable hardtops has been passed by in favor of a purer roadster experience provided by the look and character of a soft-top.
The SLC Roadster, which used to wear the SLK badge, hasn't been updated much since 2011, so it's no surprise that its time has come. It's time to say a cheery goodbye to the Mercedes SLC.
Choosing Your Mercedes-Benz SLC-Class
The Mercedes SLC-Class is available in two trims: SLC 300 and AMG SLC 43. Pricing starts at $50,945 including destination for the SLC 300 and climbs to $65,645 for the AMG SLC 43.
Engine Choices
The SLC Roadster is available with two engines: the SLC 300 gets a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder, while the AMG SLC 43 houses a 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6.
Engine Type | Horsepower | Torque | 0-60 mph Time | Fuel Economy (Combined) |
2.0L Turbo 4-Cylinder | 241 hp | 273 lb-ft | 5.8 seconds | 27 mpg |
3.0L Twin-Turbo V6 | 385 hp | 384 lb-ft | 4.6 seconds | 23 mpg |
Power is sent to the rear wheels by a nine-speed automatic transmission, which is the only configuration available.
Passenger and Cargo Capacity
The compact size of the SLC provides a hint at the space compromises that await. Seating is limited to two passengers, and there's just 6.5 cubic feet of cargo capacity in the trunk.
However, the cabin offers 42.5 inches of leg room, 52.5 inches of shoulder room, and 38 inches of head room, which are unlikely to stir any grumbling.
Safety Features
The SLC 300 includes automatic emergency braking and a driver attention monitoring system for those extended road trips. The AMG SLC 43 also gets blind-spot monitoring.
The available Driver Assistance Package ($1,850) bundles adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and a collision preparedness system which, in an impending rear-end collision, quickly flashes the rear hazard lights, tightens the seat belts, and locks the brakes within a fraction of a second. This only costs $1,450 on the AMG model.
An automated parking system is a $970 standalone option.
Connectivity
The small Mercedes SLC includes a 7-inch color display with a console-located controller. The infotainment system includes Bluetooth, HD radio, and two USB ports. The AMG SLC 43 adds satellite radio.
On both models, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration require an additional $350, which is disappointing to see. They can also be bundled with an 8-inch display and navigation in the $2,250 Multimedia Package.
The SLC 300 is equipped with luxury features that keep it current, despite the fact that its most recent overhaul was back in 2011. An adjustable sport exhaust and sport suspension provide the sense of sport while electronically adjustable dampers can be added for $990 for even heightened control.
The power retractable hardtop represents the essence of the SLC – sporty but certainly not without comfort. In fact, when top-down driving isn’t ideal, the standard panoramic glass roof does its best to simulate a convertible experience and furthermore, an electrically shaded glass roof can be added for $2,500.
Inside, the SLC 300 features leatherette covered power seats with position memory, a power-adjustable steering column, and aluminum trim.
Creature comforts can be enhanced with the Premium Package ($2,300), which bundles heated seats, dual-zone climate control, a neck-level heating system on each seat, keyless unlock and start, and satellite radio.
Besides the engine, the AMG SLC 43 ups the ante with an upgraded sport suspension, sport exhaust system, sport braking system, an electronic stability program.
On the inside, Nappa leather upholstery, blind-spot monitoring, dual-zone climate control, heated seats, the neck-level heaters, ambient interior lighting, and satellite radio improve the experience.
The AMG Handling Package ($3,700) adds red brake calipers, a leather-wrapped performance steering wheel, an improved sport suspension, a limited slip-differential, additional engine water cooler, and an analog clock on the dashboard.
Compare SLC-Class Trims Side-By-Side
In what is likely the final year of production, the 2020 Mercedes SLC is a decade old design that retains its charm and engineering prowess. The SLC 300 with the Premium Package and the Multimedia Package carry the roadster comfortably and handsomely off into the sunset.