Mercedes-Benz SLC (2016 – 2020) Review

Mercedes-Benz SLC (2016 – 2020) At A Glance

3/5

+Folding metal hard-top roof offers security and refinement, performance AMG SLC 43 delivers pace to worry Porsche, optional Airscarf allows open-top motoring even when temperature drops.

-Boot space is heavily compromised by lowering the roof, ride quality is harsh on all models, and worse with AMG suspension, dated dashboard betrays the age of the car underneath.

Insurance Groups are between 41–46
On average it achieves 75% of the official MPG figure

The Mercedes-Benz SLC offers a rare combination of a folding metal hard-top roof in a compact two-seat roadster. This makes it a rarity, when rivals like the Porsche 718 Boxster and Audi TT use a fabric roof. The SLC has a strong range of engines, plus the option of an excellent nine-speed automatic gearbox. However, the interior feels dated alongside newer models, with an old-fashioned media system. That folding roof also has a major impact on practicality, and the SLC’s driving experience is less involved than some might expect.

Mercedes-Benz kickstarted a trend for convertibles with folding metal roofs in the 1990s. In 2020, this is a tiny section of the new car market, with the SLC remaining a stalwart. The advantage of extra refinement over convertibles with fabric roofs is hard to ignore, but such luxury does come at a cost. 

From the outside the SLC has all the right looks, with an imposing front grille showing off its three-pointed star badge. It certainly adds to the premium feel, and goes some way to justifying the higher price tag. The story inside is less impressive, with a button-tastic dashboard – a legacy of the SLC’s dated design.

At least the two occupants of the SLC will feel accommodated in the cabin, with plenty of room to get comfortable.

A low seating position adds to the sporting feel, and features such as cruise control and air conditioning are standard. Higher-specification models add leather seats and fancier trim, but the overall level of equipment is impressive. 

Opening the boot reveals one of the SLC’s major drawbacks. A complex metal roof needs more space than the soft-tops of the Audi TT Roadster or Porsche 718 Boxster. The SLC has to store the folding parts in the space usually reserved for luggage. It means boot space with the roof down drops to a diminutive 225 litres. Owners must learn to pack light.

The benefits of the metal roof can be felt instantly when driving the SLC. With the roof raised, road noise is much lower than fabric-roofed rivals, and there is also the added security benefit of a solid top. Lowering the roof takes just 20 seconds, and refinement is still impressive when topless.

An optional Airscarf system uses vents built into the seats to blow warm air at neck level, keeping occupants cosy with the roof off.

Engine choices for the SLC range from four-cylinder turbo petrols through to a zesty twin-turbocharged V6 in the AMG SLC 43. Performance stretches from mild to wild, plus there is also a diesel option for those doing longer journeys. A six-speed manual gearbox is standard on lower models, but the impressive nine-speed automatic is worth hunting down. 

Despite its bold styling and powerful engines, the SLC makes more sense as a cruiser rather than outright sports car. More enthusiastic drivers will find the steering lacking in feedback, but this is unlikely to bother the majority. A stiff ride, made worse on cars with 18-inch wheels, will be a bigger issue for those wanting a relaxing experience. 

Aside from the Mazda MX-5 RF, which lacks the premium cachet of a Mercedes-Benz, the SLC is in a class of its own. If you want a classy, compact two-seat roadster with a folding metal roof, this is your only option. While it may not be perfect, the Mercedes SLC delivers exactly what those in the market for a car 

Mercedes-Benz SLC (2016 – 2020) handling and engines

Driving Rating
Anyone considering buying a Mercedes-Benz SLC for sheer driving pleasure may need to adjust their expectations when behind the wheel.

Mercedes-Benz SLC (2016 – 2020): Handling and ride quality

Compared to rivals such as the Porsche 718 Cayman, the SLC manages to feel a little aloof. 

Although the steering is accurate, it lacks the ultimate degree of feedback to please the most committed drivers. However, most buyers will appreciate the light steering when parking, and the feeling of stability on the motorway. 

Ride quality is tough on all SLC models, with AMG Line and Final Edition cars the most problematic. These versions use sports suspension lowered by 10mm, combined with 18-inch alloy wheels, giving a noticeably stiff ride. Sport versions, with 17-inch wheels, handle bumps and broken tarmac the best.

The AMG SLC 43 has its own bespoke suspension and steering set-up. This offers a fraction more feedback for drivers, with adjustable AMG suspension on the options list.

Mercedes-Benz SLC (2016 – 2020): Engines

The SLC 200 and SLC 300 both use turbocharged four-cylinder 2.0-litre petrol engines, but in different states of tune. The 184PS SLC 200 comes with the choice of a six-speed manual gearbox or an excellent nine-speed automatic. It shifts rapidly, and is the better choice of the two. 

Upping the performance level is the 245PS SLC 300, fitted as standard with the 9G-Tronic automatic ’box. It feels noticeably quicker than the SLC 200, and there’s little in the way of penalty when it comes to fuel economy. 

Mercedes introduced an entry-level SLC 180 model in 2017, using a 1.6-litre four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine. With only 156PS, it does feel slower than the other petrol, and its fuel economy is worse than the SLC 200. 

The diesel SLC 250d is no slouch with 204PS, and comes with the nine-speed automatic as standard. If you want to keep fuel bills low, this is the SLC to pick. 

Topping the range is the AMG SLC 43. A true high-performance machine, it has a twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 and can hit a top speed of 155mph.

Mercedes-Benz SLC (2016 – 2020): Safety

Mercedes never submitted the SLC for crash-testing by Euro NCAP, meaning there is no star rating here. Regardless, it is still packed with standard safety equipment to protect those inside. 

The driver and passenger have head and side airbags on all models, along with headrests that respond to a crash. There is also rollover protection, plus active safety features such as electronic stability control and traction control. 

Reversing sensors are only standard on the Final Edition model, while the Final Edition Premium has a rear-view camera. The AMG SLC 43 comes with both from the factory. These are useful options to have, given the limited rearward view with the roof raised. 

The small boot means there is no spare wheel, just a temporary tyre repair kit. 

Mercedes-Benz SLC (2016 – 2020): Towing

Mercedes-Benz did not homologate the SLC for towing in the UK. As such, it means there is no official tow bar solution on offer.

Engine MPG 0-62 CO2
AMG SLC 43 35–36 mpg 4.7 s 178–186 g/km
SLC 180 44–45 mpg 7.9–8.1 s 132–133 g/km
SLC 200 40–44 mpg 7.0 s 150–161 g/km
SLC 200 Automatic 42–48 mpg 6.9 s 137–153 g/km
SLC 250 d Automatic 71 mpg 6.6 s 114 g/km
SLC 300 Automatic 40 mpg 5.8 s 138–161 g/km
SLC 43 AMG - 4.7 s 185 g/km

Real MPG average for the Mercedes-Benz SLC (2016 – 2020)

RealMPG

Real MPG was created following thousands of readers telling us that their cars could not match the official figures.

Real MPG gives real world data from drivers like you to show how much fuel a vehicle really uses.

Average performance

75%

Real MPG

26–57 mpg

MPGs submitted

57

Mercedes-Benz SLC (2016 – 2020) interior

Interior Rating
The SLC is made with an overall feeling of quality, thanks to doors that close with a reassuring thunk and the solidity of a metal roof.
Dimensions
Length 4133–4143 mm
Width 2006 mm
Height 1301–1303 mm
Wheelbase 2430 mm

Full specifications

Mercedes-Benz SLC (2016 – 2020): Practicality

The SLC’s biggest weakness comes from its compact dimensions. There is only so much room a two-seat roadster can offer, and boot space is the main compromise for that fancy folding metal roof. 

With the roof raised, the SLC’s boot can hold a supermini-sized 335 litres. Go topless and that volume drops to just 225 litres.

It requires careful packing should you want a weekend away, and to lower the roof while driving there. A standard luggage protector works as a guide to demonstrate just how much space you will have left in the boot with the roof dropped. 

Storage is at least supplemented in the cabin by a large lockable glovebox, along with other smaller cubby spaces. The cabin itself feels relatively roomy for drivers of all sizes, thanks to the adjustable seats and steering wheel. Even the tallest drivers should still fit comfortably with the roof up.

Mercedes-Benz SLC (2016 – 2020): Quality and finish

Although some of the interior trim can feel a little cheap lower down the cabin, the areas you touch the most are built to last. 

Chrome trim for the round air vents, plus a D-shaped steering wheel wrapped in leather, add an extra hint of luxury to the SLC. A light carbon-grain aluminum trim is used for the interior of most models, with wood and carbon fibre on the options list.

Mercedes-Benz SLC (2016 – 2020): Infotainment

With an interior taken from the older SLK, Mercedes-Benz was limited with multimedia options for the SLC. There is a 7.0-inch display screen mounted between the air vents on the dashboard, but it does not function as a touchscreen. Instead, there is a rotary controller mounted lower down the centre console to change settings. Using it can feel old-fashioned, when even budget superminis now come with big touchscreens.

A DAB radio, single CD player, and Bluetooth phone connectivity are standard on all SLCs. Final Edition models also gain satellite navigation and the option to to use Apple CarPlay or Android Auto with a smartphone.

Mercedes-Benz SLC (2016 – 2020) value for money

Value for Money Rating
As a premium two-seat sports car, running costs for a Mercedes-Benz SLC are higher compared to a family hatchback.

Mercedes-Benz SLC (2016 – 2020): Prices

The last 2020 Final Edition models of the Mercedes-Benz SLC begin at £37,130 for an SLC 200 with a manual gearbox. Prices stretch to £46,161 for an SLC 300 in Final Edition Premium trim, while the AMG SLC 43 is £48,945. 

With being a runout model, Mercedes-Benz dealerships are able to offer substantial discounts on the SLC. Brand-new SLC 200 Final Editions with a manual gearbox can be had from £29,550, with 9G-Tronic automatic versions at £34,560. It makes for substantial savings should the SLC be the roadster for you. 

PCP finance deals are available from Mercedes-Benz dealerships on these new cars. A £1000 deposit would mean paying £545 a month over four years for an automatic SLC 200 Final Edition. With the same terms, an AMG SLC 43 would cost £645 per month.

Used models are also in plentiful supply, with prices beginning at around £13,000. Mercedes-Benz dealerships will have the youngest used SLC examples in stock, with prices here starting beyond £16,000. 

AMG Line trim makes up the majority of cars on sale, although Sport versions should not be overlooked. Unless you strongly prefer the larger wheels and racier bumpers, there is little reason to pay a premium for the AMG Line version.  

Petrol SLC 200 models are the most common used options, although the diesel 250d should be relatively easy to locate. A £1000 deposit will open the door to PCP finance on a used SLC 200 from £300 a month over four years, 

The high-performance AMG SLC 43 is likely to require more effort to seek out, having sold in much lower numbers. Should you manage to find a nearly-new example, prices start at around £31,000.

Mercedes-Benz SLC (2016 – 2020): Running Costs

Based on official fuel economy testing, the SLC 180 is the most efficient petrol model, offering 48.7mpg. The SLC 200 is not far behind with an average of up to 47.9mpg, while the SLC 300 is rated at 40.4mpg. However, the Honest John Real MPG results show that the SLC 300 may actually be best in the real world.

Given the performance on offer, the 36.2mpg figure achieved by the AMG SLC 43 is respectable, and one likely to be replicated on the road. 

The diesel 250d recorded an impressive 70.4mpg average in official tests, and is the engine of choice for those planning to commute long distances in their SLC.

Insurance groups are high across the range, starting at 41 for the SLC 180 and rising to group 46 for the AMG SLC 43. The popular SLC 200 sits in insurance group 42. 

Changes to the VED (car tax) system mean the latest SLC models can be hit with high costs. An AMG SLC 43 Final Edition registered after 1 April 2020. would be liable for a first-year payment of £1,305, followed by annual payments of £475. 

Buying a diesel SLC 250d registered before April 2017 means VED (car tax) of just £30, with later models liable for £150 per year.

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Mercedes-Benz SLC (2016 – 2020) models and specs

Sport is the starting point for Mercedes SLC ownership. This includes 17-inch alloy wheels, sport seats finished in cloth trim, cruise control and air conditioning. A removable wind deflector is also included. 

AMG Line trim adds a set of 18-inch alloy wheels, lowered sports suspension and leather upholstery. An AMG bodykit and performance brakes add to the sportier image.

Celebrating the end of SLC production, Final Edition models feature 18-inch wheels, AMG body styling, and part-leather seats. The clever Airscarf system is also fitted as standard. Choosing the Final Edition Premium sees a reversing camera and LED headlights included as well. 

The AMG SLC 43 has a host of bespoke parts, including AMG performance brakes, uprated steering and a sports exhaust. There is even an analogue clock made by IWC on the dashboard.

Dimensions
Length 4133–4143 mm
Width 2006 mm
Height 1301–1303 mm
Wheelbase 2430 mm
Miscellaneous
Kerb Weight 1390–1605 kg
Boot Space -
Warranty 3 years
Servicing 15500 miles
Costs
List Price £31,140–£48,075
Insurance Groups 41–46
Road Tax Bands C–J
Official MPG 34.5–70.6 mpg
Euro NCAP Safety Ratings
Adult -
Child -
Pedestrian -
Overall -

On sale until December 2022

Roadster
Version List Price MPG 0-62
SLC200 2.0 184hp AMG Line 2dr - 40.4 mpg 7.0 s
SLC200 2.0 184hp AMG Line Auto 2dr - 42.2 mpg 6.9 s
SLC200 2.0 184hp Final Edition 2dr - - 7.0 s
SLC200 2.0 184hp Final Edition Auto 2dr - - 6.9 s
SLC200 2.0 184hp Final Edition Premium 2dr - - 7.0 s
SLC200 2.0 184hp Final Edition Premium Auto 2dr - - 6.9 s
SLC300 2.0 245hp AMG Line Auto 2dr - 40.4 mpg 5.8 s
SLC300 2.0 245hp Final Edition Auto 2dr - - 5.8 s
SLC300 2.0 245hp Final Edition Premium Auto 2dr - - 5.8 s
SLC43 3.0 390hp AMG Auto 2dr - 34.5 mpg 4.7 s
SLC43 3.0 390hp AMG Final Edition Auto 2dr - - 4.7 s
SLC43 3.0 390hp AMG Final Edition Premium Auto 2dr - - 4.7 s

On sale until November 2019

Roadster
Version List Price MPG 0-62
SLC180 1.6 156hp AMG Line 2dr £32,769 44.1 mpg 7.9 s
SLC180 1.6 156hp AMG Line Auto 2dr £34,369 44.8 mpg 8.1 s

On sale until November 2018

Roadster
Version List Price MPG 0-62
SLC43 3.0 367hp AMG Auto 2dr £48,075 36.2 mpg 4.7 s

On sale until October 2017

Roadster
Version List Price MPG 0-62
SLC200 2.0 184hp Sport 2dr £31,140 43.5 mpg 7.0 s
SLC200 2.0 184hp Sport Auto 2dr £32,640 47.9 mpg 6.9 s
SLC250d 2.1 204hp AMG Line Auto 2dr £37,240 70.6 mpg 6.6 s
SLC250d 2.1 204hp Sport Auto 2dr £33,745 70.6 mpg 6.6 s

Model History

December 2015

Mercedes-Benz SLC unveiled

Facelifted version of the SLK takes on a new name. The SLC 250 d, SLC 300 and SLC 43 feature the sport/comfort-oriented 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission as standard, while it is available as an option for the SLC 200.

As part of the facelift, the Mercedes-Benz designers have further honed the roadster’s sporty look. The new front section, where the steeply raked radiator grille elongates the appearance of the arrow-shaped bonnet, is particularly striking. All SLC models feature a diamond radiator grille as standard.

SLC 200 SLC 300 SLC 250 d SLC 43
Number of cylinders/arrangement 4/in-line 4/in-line 4/in-line 6/V
Displacement (cc) 1991 1991 2143 2996
Rated output
(kW/hp at rpm)
135/184 at 5500 180/245 at 5500 150/204
at 3800
270/367 at 5500-6000
Rated torque
(Nm at rpm)
300 at 1200-4000 370 at 1300-4000 500 at 1600-1800 520 at
2000-4200
Combined fuel consumption
from (l/100 km)
6.1 (5.7) (5.8) (4.4) (7.8)
Combined CO 2 emissions
from (g/km)
142 (133) (134) (114) (178)
Efficiency class C (B) (B) (A) (D)
Acceleration
0-100 km/h (s)
7.0 (6.9) (5.8) (6.6) (4.7)
Top speed (km/h) 240 (237) (250) (245) (250)

The SLC 180 and SLC 200 are fitted with a 6-speed manual transmission. The sport/comfort-oriented 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission is available for these models as an option and fitted as standard in the SLC 250 d, SLC 300 and SLC 43.

The SLC’s vario-roof combines open-top driving pleasure with uncompromised comfort in poor weather. Operating the electrohydraulic roof is now even more straightforward. If when opening or closing the roof the vehicle has to move off due to the traffic conditions, the process which was started when at a standstill can be continued up to a speed of approx 40 km/h.

Another new feature is the automatic boot separator (in conjunction with the optional extra vario-roof convenience feature or KEYLESS-GO): if the separator is in the upper position for increased boot capacity, it automatically moves down when the roof is opened. If there is not enough space for this because the boot is full of luggage, the roof does not open and the message “Close boot separator” appears in the instrument cluster.

As part of the facelift, the Mercedes-Benz designers have further honed the roadster’s sporty look. The new front section, where the steeply raked radiator grille elongates the appearance of the arrow-shaped bonnet, is particularly striking. All SLC models feature a diamond radiator grille as standard. On the entry-level model it is finished in black with an iridium silver louvre and chrome trim. A more individual look is available in conjunction with the AMG Line or the Night package: here the diamond radiator grille is finished in chrome, and the colour of the louvre either remains iridium silver (AMG Line) or is high-gloss black (Night package).

The new SLC 43 represents the entry point into the current roadster world of AMG. Apart from the renaming of the SLK to SLC, the open-top two-seater also comes with a new AMG nomenclature.

Mercedes-AMG SLC 43
Engine V6 biturbo
Displacement 2996 cc
Output 270 kW (367 hp)
at 5500-6000 rpm
Peak torque 520 Nm at 2000-4200 rpm
Fuel consumption, NEDC combined 7.8 l/100 km
CO 2 emissions 178 g/km
Efficiency class D
Acceleration 0-100 km/h 4.7 s
Top speed 250 km/h*

January 2016

SLC prices announced

The new Mercedes-Benz SLC is priced from £30,495 for the entry-level SLC 200 Sport.

Standard equipment includes re-designed halogen headlights with integrated LED daytime running lights, new sports exhaust system (standard with 9G-TRONIC on SLC 200 and SLC 300), sports pedals, LED tail lights, Active Brake Assist, Attention Assist, Active Bonnet, chrome-plated twin exhaust system, remote boot lid release and Headlamp Assist.

Sport models come with 17-inch five-spoke alloy wheels (18-inch five-twin spoke alloy wheels are optionally available for £995), while AMG Line offers 18-inch AMG multi-spoke alloys.

Engine Model Line Transmission OTR Price
SLC 200

Sport 6-speed
manual
£30,495.00
9G-TRONIC
9-speed
automatic
£31,980.00
AMG Line 6-speed
manual
£34,495.00
9G-TRONIC
9-speed
automatic
£35,980.00
SLC 300

AMG Line 9G-TRONIC
9-speed
automatic
£39,385.00
SLC 250 d

Sport 9G-TRONIC
9-speed
automatic
£32,995.00
AMG Line 9G-TRONIC
9-speed
automatic
£36,995.00
SLC 43

- 9G-TRONIC
9-speed
automatic
£46,355.00

May 2017

SLC 180 AMG introduced

The SLC 180 AMG Line has been added to the SLC range, with prices starting from £32,039 OTR.

The SLC 180 features a turbo-charged 1.6-litre petrol engine producing 156PS and 250Nm. It can accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in 7.9 seconds and has a top speed of 140 mph. It emits a low 134g/km of CO2 and delivers up to 48.7 mpg combined. A six-speed manual transmission is standard, or for £1,600 customers can opt for a 9G-Tronic automatic gearbox.

The SLC 180 AMG Line comes as standard with 18-inch alloy wheels, Artico seats, Active Brake Assist, cruise control, air conditioning, sports suspension and sports braking system.

The SLC Sport model line has also been discontinued to make the range even simpler, with AMG Line now the only option. The price of AMG Line trim has also been reduced by £500, making the SLC line-up even more attractive.

December 2019

Mercedes-Benz SLC Final Edition priced from £37,120

The Mercedes-Benz SLC Final Edition is now on sale, with prices starting from £37,120 for the SLC 200 Final Edition and £40,916 for the SLC 200 Final Edition Premium. The AMG SLC 43 Final Edition starts at £49,855.

The special edition comes with 18-inch five-spoke alloy wheels; Airscarf; Night package; heated seats; rain-sensing wipers; smartphone integration – including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto; Garmin satellite navigation; Parktronic; Memory package – including electrically adjustable seats and steering column; and Harmon Kardon sound system (AMG 43 only). The Final Edition of the SLC is available in the exclusive paint finish sun yellow.

For an additional £3,795, the Final Edition Premium adds a reversing camera; Comand Online infotainment system; Mirror package; panoramic roof; LED Intelligent Light System; and a wind deflector.

Three petrol engines are available from launch. The SLC 200 and SLC 300 both feature a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine, capable of producing 184PS and 300Nm or 245PS and 370Nm in the SLC 300.

The SLC 200 delivers between 37.2 and 40.4 combined mpg (WLTP) and emits 161g/km of CO2 (NEDC) (automatic: 35.3 to 37.2mpg and 153g/km). The SLC 300 can achieve between 35.3 and 37.2mpg and 161g/km.

The range-topping AMG 43 uses a biturbo 3.0-litre V6 petrol engine which generates 390PS and 520Nm of torque. It delivers between 31.7 and 32.5mpg and 185g/km of CO2. It can sprint from 0 to 62mph in 4.7 seconds and has an electronically limited top speed of 155mph.

The SLC 200 comes as standard with a six-speed manual gearbox, while the 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission is optionally available. The SLC 300 and AMG 43 comes as standard with the 9G-TRONIC gearbox.

What does the Mercedes-Benz SLC (2016 – 2020) cost?