Mercedes-Benz SLC (2016-2020) Review

Roadsters with a retractable hard-top have a specific appeal to those who want a convertible, but the added protection of a metal roof. Popular in the early 2000s, cars like the Mercedes-Benz SLC have fallen from the spotlight lately.

For those who want a relatively affordable premium sports car with the security of a folding metal roof, the Mercedes-Benz SLC is essentially the only option. It offers an engaging driving experience, although is best suited to relaxed cruising than outright speed. 

Anyone considering a Mercedes-Benz SLC needs to take the limitations of the interior and relatively small boot into account. However, the Mercedes-Benz badge could be enough to persuade many buyers.

We would skip past the entry-level Mercedes-Benz SLC 180 and jump to the SLC 200 petrol as the best engine option in the range. It offers a blend of decent performance and economy, and keeps purchase costs to a reasonable level. 

Plumping for an Mercedes-Benz SLC 200 with the optional nine-speed 9G-Tronic automatic gearbox is also recommended. It suits the nature of the Mercedes-Benz SLC better than the standard six-speed manual and comes with steering wheel-mounted paddles, should you want to change gear yourself. 

Trim levels on the Mercedes-Benz SLC are few in number, and the basic Sport model offers all the equipment you reasonably need. Unless you are particularly keen on the bigger wheels and bodykit of the AMG Line version, it’s not worth the extra money.

The SLC has two main rivals, both of which also come from German manufacturers. Closest in spirit is the Audi TT, which brings sharp styling and a minimalist interior to the convertible party. Unlike the Mercedes-Benz SLC, it has a fabric convertible roof, but it does offer a wide range of engines. With a mid-engined layout and a strong focus on the driving experience, the Porsche 718 Boxster is Mercedes-BenzSLC’s other arch rival. 

Mazda sells the affordable Mazda MX-5 in an RF version, which features a simpler retractable metal hard-top roof. The Mazda badge might lack cachet for some, though.

Mercedes-Benz has a reputation for timeless design. The Mercedes-Benz SLC isn’t as impressive as some historic models, but it feels built to last. Overall solidity is aided by the metal roof, which helps occupants feel cocooned with the top up. The doors also shut with a reassuring clunk, adding to the overall impression of quality. 

Round chrome air vents are a subtle nod to classic Mercedes-Benz SL roadsters, and act as the focal point in the Mercedes-Benz SLC’s cabin. Light carbon-grain aluminium is used in the majority of Mercedes-Benz SLC models as decorative trim, with gloss black wood or dark carbonfibre available as options. 

All models benefit from a steering wheel wrapped in leather, which has a flat-bottomed D-shape design. Move up through the model range and the leather trim is perforated on AMG Line cars, and paired with grippy faux suede on the AMG 43 model.

Being based on an older car, the Mercedes-Benz SLC carries over the basic multimedia system from its predecessor. In a world where almost everything has a giant touchscreen, the button-fest that is the Mercedes-Benz SLC’s dashboard may come as a shock to some. 

All versions do at least gain an upgraded, high-definition 7-inch display screen. It nestles between the air vents at the top of the dashboard. This is not a touchscreen, however, so don’t try jabbing it with your fingers. Instead, it’s operated via a small rotary controller located lower down the centre console. A smaller 4.5-inch screen can also be found between the main instrument dials.

All models come with DAB radio, a single CD player and four speakers as standard. Higher-grade cars like the AMG SLC 43 use a 10-speaker Harman Kardon surround-sound system. 

Bluetooth connectivity for phone calls and music streaming is included on all cars. Later Final Edition models also benefit from standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone connectivity. Two USB ports and a connection for iPod music players are also fitted.

Mercedes-Benz SLC Sport and AMG Line cars did not come with satellite navigation as standard. However, the Mercedes-Benz AMG SLC 43 does have this, as do the various Final Edition models.

Being a two-seat roadster means that space and practicality are not top of the agenda for the Mercedes-Benz SLC. That’s not to say the smallest Mercedes-Benz convertible is impractical, but what it offers has to be taken in context. 

While the overall dimensions of the Mercedes-Benz SLC are compact, this does not overly affect the space offered for passengers. Two will be able to fit neatly inside, with plenty of adjustment offered by the seats and steering wheel.  You might notice how high the centre console is. This adds to an overall impression of sportiness, making the driver and passenger feel more enclosed within the car. It also includes a built-in armrest, which helps when using the controller for the multimedia system.

Interior storage space is limited, with a lockable glovebox the main option for hiding items away. It is relatively large, and supplemented by smaller cubby spaces. Mercedes-Benz SLC Sport and AMG Line cars do not come with cupholders as standard, but Final Edition and AMG 43 versions do. 

Dropping the roof of the Mercedes-Benz SLC has a notable impact on boot space. The folding mechanism and roof sections eat up room, reducing storage space from 335 litres to 225 litres. Mercedes fits a standard luggage protector that acts as a guide to how boot you can use, while still being able to enjoy topless motoring.

For longer trips away, it may be best to travel to your destination with the roof up, in order to maximise storage space. Once there, feel free to unload and enjoy dropping the top. 

With its limited boot space, the Mercedes-Benz SLC does not come fitted with a spare wheel. Instead, all versions feature an emergency tyre repair kit. It’s designed purely to help you reach a garage, where replacement rubber can be fitted. 

A child car seat can also be installed on the passenger seat of the Mercedes-Benz SLC. Standard equipment on all models includes a sensor for child seat detection. The car does not have ISOFIX fittings as standard, however. 

The Mercedes-Benz SLC dimensions are 4133mm long, 2006mm wide and 1301mm tall.

Three petrol engines and a single diesel were the initial choices when Mercedes-Benz launched the Mercedes-Benz SLC in 2016. The SLC 200 and SLC 300 both use turbocharged four-cylinder 2.0-litre petrol engines. The Mercedes-Benz SLC 200 produces 184PS, putting it on par with smaller hot hatchbacks in terms of performance. 

A six-speed manual gearbox is standard, with a nine-speed automatic optional. Choosing the auto results in speedy shifts, plus a slightly quicker 0-62mph time of 6.9 seconds. Upping the ante is the Mercedes-Benz SLC 300, which has an output of 245PS. This comes with the 9G-Tronic automatic as standard, and can accelerate from 0-62mph in 5.8 seconds.

The Mercedes-Benz AMG SLC 43 is a real powerhouse, using a twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre V6. This produces a zesty 367PS, and allows the Mercedes-Benz SLC 43 to rocket from 0-62mph in just 4.7 seconds. It will also reach a limited top speed of 155 mph.

In 2017, Mercedes introduced an entry-level Mercedes-Benz SLC 180. Using a 1.6-litre four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine, it has a power output of 156PS. The six-speed manual gearbox is standard, with the automatic an option.

Diesel devotees could pick the Mercedes-Benz SLC 250d, which combined a standard auto gearbox with an output of 204PS. A 0-62mph time of 6.6 seconds means this version is no slouch.

Of the range, the Mercedes-Benz SLC 200 offers the best blend of performance and price, but we would recommend finding one with the nine-speed automatic gearbox. Those covering big miles will be happy with the diesel Mercedes-Benz SLC 250d.

That folding metal roof may eat into boot space, but it pays off when it comes to refinement. Wind and road noise are well contained with the roof up, making the Mercedes-Benz SLC a relatively relaxing vehicle to cruise long distances.

As with many convertibles, the lack of a fixed roof can result in squeaks and rattles inside the cabin. Although the Mercedes-Benz SLC isn’t bad in this respect, they can be noticeable when driving on rough tarmac. Cars with stiffer suspension are more likely to suffer here, of course.

Wind noise with the roof lowered is generally well contained, with the standard wind deflector playing a big part. It also means very little air blasts the cabin, so you can avoid an impromptu blow dry when out driving. 

All Mercedes-Benz SLCs have a sports exhaust as standard, even the diesel Mercedes-Benz SLC 250d. The AMG SLC 43 has its own AMG-tuned system for extra aural aggression. Mercedes-Benz SLC 200 and 300 models with the automatic gearbox have driver-controlled settings for how much noise the tailpipes make.

The Mercedes-Benz SLC has not been crash-tested by Euro NCAP, and neither was its SLK predecessor. That means it does not have an official star rating for safety. Nonetheless, it is packed with various features to protect occupants.

Head and side airbags are standard for both driver and passenger, along with crash-responsive headrests. The Mercedes-Benz SLC benefits from chassis bracing should it roll over, and the bonnet will automatically pop up to protect pedestrians in a crash. Electronic stability control and traction control are standard. Autonomous brake assist is also fitted, helping the Mercedes-Benz SLC slow down (or stop altogether) should it detect hazards in the road. 

Mercedes-Benz does fit all SLC models with attention assist from the factory. This monitors driving behaviour, and warns you if you become drowsy. On cars fitted with navigation, the Mercedes-Benz SLC will set a route towards the nearest place to take a break.

Mercedes-Benz SLC Sport and AMG Line cars do not come with either parking sensors or a reversing camera as standard. Final Edition cars benefit from parking sensors, while the Final Edition Premium gained a rear-view camera as well. The AMG SLC 43 has both as standard. 

The small boot of the Mercedes-Benz SLC means there is no standard spare wheel. A temporary tyre repair kit is included, with tyre pressure monitoring fitted to all models.

The Mercedes-Benz SLC received a modest 9.00 out of 10 for reliability in the HonestJohn.co.uk Satisfaction Survey, which is a middling score compared to other models in the Mercedes-Benz range. There have been no official recalls, which is a good sign, but especially for a car with a complicated folding roof, a full main dealer service history is a must.

As a brand Mercedes-Benz finished 13th overall out of 30 manufacturers, a decent result that put it ahead of key rivals BMW and Audi.

Being an upmarket sports car with performance engine options means the Mercedes-Benz SLC ranks highly for insurance. Given it’s likely to be chosen by experienced drivers, though, this should be less of a problem. 

The Mercedes-Benz SLC 180 has the lowest insurance group, being rated as 41. Following on from this is the Mercedes-Benz SLC 200 in group 42, whilst the quicker SLC 300 is in insurance group 43 – along with the SLC 250d.

The Mercedes-Benz AMG SLC 43 is the highest-rated of all, in group 46.

Changes in VED rates mean similar models of Mercedes-Benz SLC can attract different rates of road tax dependent on when they were first registered. 

Cheapest across the board is the Mercedes-Benz SLC 250d, with those registered between May 2016 and March 2017 costing just £30 per year. Later versions of the diesel Mercedes-Benz SLC will see this increase to £165. 

All cars with a list price above £40,000 will pay an additional £355 per year - £520 in total - for five years in which the standard rate is paid (from the second year the vehicle is taxed). After this time frame, when the car is six years old, the VED reverts back to the £165 flat rate. 

Sport specification for the Mercedes-Benz SLC means 17-inch alloy wheels, sports seats finished in cloth upholstery, cruise control and air conditioning as standard. Halogen headlamps with LED daytime running lights are included, as is a removable wind deflector.

Mercedes-Benz AMG Line trim brings 18-inch wheels, a special AMG body kit, sports suspension and a different chrome front grille. Leather seats are also fitted to the AMG Line, along with performance brakes. 

Those buying the Mercedes-Benz AMG SLC 43 gain the powerful V6 engine, along with a host of extra AMG performance goodies. This means bigger brakes, an upgraded exhaust and even an analogue IWC clock on the dashboard. 

Designed to celebrate the end of Mercedes-Benz SLC production, the Final Edition models are loaded with equipment. This includes an AMG bodykit, 18-inch wheels, the Airscarf system and part-leather seats. Final Edition Premium models gain LED headlights and a reversing camera, too. 

Mercedes-Benz SLC Sport trim has more than enough equipment for most drivers, but AMG Line may appeal to those who prefer the sportier bodykit and larger alloy wheels.