Overview

What's New for 2019

There are two versions available: the SLC300 and the AMG SLC43. The SLC300 comes with standard features including its trademark retractable hardtop, panoramic glass roof, a multifunction steering wheel, aluminum interior trim, LED daytime running lights, LED taillights, dual roll bars, a rearview camera, automatic brake drying, predictive brake priming, SmartKey, rain-sensing wipers, power adjustable sport seats, air conditioning, MB-Tex upholstery, heated and power folding side mirrors, power windows, power locks, an electric trunk partition, a HomeLink universal garage door opener, a 7-inch color infotainment screen, 8 speakers, Bluetooth connectivity, HD radio, SD card reader, and dual USB ports. The AMG SLC43 adds unique body pieces in the front fascia, side sills, and rear valance. It also comes with a unique diamond-pattern grille, 18-inch AMG multispoke wheels, and a rear spoiler. The SmartKey system includes an infrared option for opening the roof from outside the car. Also, the interior has black Nappa leather and Dinamica upholstery with seat heaters. Despite all of this, Mercedes still allows buyers a multitude of options to add to their vehicle to truly make it their own. Among the options are Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, hard drive navigation, WiFi hotspot, SiriusXM Traffic and Weather, blind spot monitoring, active LED headlights, a dashtop analog clock, various wheel designs, and many interior trim materials and colors. The SLC300 comes with a factory invoice of about $46,000 and an MSRP of about $49,000. The SLC43 adds around $13,000 to the vehicle’s MSRP. Just remember that as you visit your Certified Dealer, your status as a member means you don't endure any hassle, and still get an upfront price offer that will help you save money.

Which model you get determines how the SLC is powered. With the SLC300, the car uses a 2.0-liter inline 4-cylinder turbocharged engine. It produces 241 horsepower and 273 lb.-ft. of torque. It achieves this with a rapid-multispark ignition and high-pressure direct injection. With the SLC43, housed under the hood is a powerful AMG-tuned 3.0-liter biturbo V-6. Among the modifications is an increase in turbo boost, which helps quicken throttle response. Peak output is rated at 362 horsepower and 384 lb.-ft. of torque. Both engines use a 9-speed automatic transmission with manual-shift ability, via steering wheel-mounted paddles. Rear-wheel drive is standard, as is a clever start-stop system that virtually eliminates idling.

If you're familiar with modern Mercedes-Benz models, then the SLC interior won’t surprise you. And it should not surprise anyone for that matter, as few other automakers fashion interiors that are so tasteful and comfortable. You can customize the interior space with handsome color schemes like Bengal Red/Black, Sahara Beige, and Platinum White/Black. The majority of the interior panels are black, but you get your choice of several optional trim treatments such as aluminum, Black Piano, and black ash wood. And naturally befitting its exclusivity, the SLC43 gets special interior materials and designs. The dash layout is excellent, with controls you commonly reach for while driving placed in prominent positions. The Command infotainment system can be used with the dial controller -- something that doesn't take long to master and is easier than trying to tap inputs into a touchscreen. Driver and passenger enjoy well-padded, nicely contoured seats with big side bolsters. Taller adults might find the space cramped, but most will have enough legroom and headroom. The trunk features a fair amount of space for a small convertible.