The New Mercedes-AMG SLC 43 Joins the Lineup

Mercedes-Benz's compact roadster, theSLC," was previously known as theSLKand first appeared in 1996. It garnered significant attention for its innovative vario-roof, which could be folded and stored, a memory that is still fresh. In 2011, the third-generation SLK was redefined as an open-top model equivalent to the C-Class, in line with Mercedes' latest naming convention.

Just as the 'K' in SLK stood for 'Kurz' (short) in German, the car's appeal lay in its manageable 4.1-meter length. This charm remains unchanged with the SLC. "The ideal combination of passion and practicality." Ole Källenius, head of sales and marketing at Mercedes-Benz Cars, stated this, and our impression is exactly the same.

The two-tone seats in the SLC 300 create a pleasant atmosphere.

The Mercedes-AMG SLK43 is a newly established model.

With the SLC designation, Mercedes models (excluding Mercedes-AMG) received a new design featuring the diamond grille. The headlamps are optional but feature LEDs, which fans will immediately recognize as a difference. Concurrently, the new Mercedes-AMG "SLC 43" has been added to the lineup. This is a sporty model equipped with a 3-liter V6 engine. The previous Mercedes-AMG SLK55 has been discontinued.

The test drive took place in Nice. We drove the Mercedes SLC 300 (not available in Japan) and the top-tier Mercedes-AMG SLC 43. Both were exceptionally well-executed.

The SLC 300: A Car for Those Who Enjoy Driving Actively

The Mercedes-Benz SLC 300 is rear-wheel drive, powered by a 2-liter four-cylinder engine. It produces a maximum output of 245ps (180kW) and a peak torque of 370Nm. It is paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission. Its short front and rear overhangs, along with a character line that kicks up over the rear wheels, give it an appealingly sporty stance.

The interior is largely unchanged from the SLK, so users familiar with Mercedes vehicles will feel comfortable driving it. The sculpted seats on the test model were a two-tone black and white. They exude a pleasant, non-sterile ambiance, perhaps reminiscent of British cars. Two large dials for the speedometer and tachometer are positioned directly in front of the driver, and the short gear selector sprouts conveniently from the ideal hand position, making driving easy.

Active Lane Keeping Assist is available.

Equipped with the vario-roof

A significant change with the SLC is the addition of Dynamic Select, which includes a Sport+ mode. While the S-Class Cabriolet felt comfortably relaxed in its Comfort mode, the sportier SLC allows for a highly engaging drive in Sport or Sport+ modes. The engine revs higher, power increases, and the dampers stiffen, resulting in noticeably sharper body control when turning the steering wheel.

The SLC 300 is surprisingly powerful for its 2-liter displacement. Earlier, we quoted a Mercedes-Benz executive's comment about the "ideal combination of passion and practicality." However, those who prioritize comfort might prefer the SLC 180 or the diesel SLC 200d. The SLC 300 is for those who want to drive more actively. The Sport+ mode in Dynamic Select is better suited to a driving style that involves actively pushing the engine to higher revs.

The Mercedes-AMG SLC 43, the only model in the series with a multi-cylinder engine, was the sporty model we expected.

The Mercedes-AMG SLK55: A Combination of Elegance and Sportiness

Previously, the SLK lineup included the Mercedes-AMG SLK55, powered by a 5.5-liter V8 engine. This has been replaced by a 3-liter V6 twin-turbo engine with two fewer cylinders. "There were concerns from the market about insufficient power," admitted a development engineer we met at the Nice test drive event. "However, once you drive it, you'll understand the clear advantages." He added.

The first part of the SLC 43 test drive involved navigating the elegant Cap d'Antibes and then tackling the steep, winding mountain roads behind it, with a series of tight hairpin turns. The V6, with its peak torque of 530Nm available from 2000rpm, effortlessly propels the 1595kg two-seater. You won't feel a lack of power even with minimal throttle input. The handling is precise, and the car's smooth movement is truly that of a sports car. The ride is not uncomfortably stiff; the balance is exceptionally well-achieved.

The SLC 43 features 18-inch wheels.

The grip of the SLC 43's steering wheel is also excellent.

The SLC 43 is also equipped with Dynamic Select. Choosing Sport+ mode in this car is highly enjoyable. It truly brings out the best of its sporty character. At the same time, the steering is stable, and the handling is precise. Although it rained all day in Nice during the test drive, limiting opportunities to drive with the top down, opening the vario-top (operable up to 40 km/h) revealed the sky beyond the windshield. The sense of open-air driving is well-realized. It's a superb combination of elegance and sportiness.

Incidentally, the SLC 43 is already available in Japan, but the SLC 300 is not.