mercedes-benz relaunches SLC convertible with radical new facelift

mercedes-benz relaunches SLC convertible with radical new facelift
images courtesy of mercedes-benz

20 years on from the birth of its segment, the mercedes-benz compact roadster is to be relaunched with a new name – ‘SLC’. the name change acknowledges the traditionally close relationship with the ‘c-class’, from which much of the roadster’s technology is derived.

the name change acknowledges the close relationship with the ‘c-class’

as part of the facelift mercedes-benz ‘SLC’ 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. the ‘dynamic select’, the vehicle characteristics can be adjusted instantly at the touch of a button, as the system modifies the engine, transmission, steering and suspension at the driver’s desire.

the steeply raked radiator grille

there need be no contradiction between high driving dynamics and low fuel consumption. this is proved by the new mercedes-AMG ‘SLC 43’: thanks to the combination of 3.0-litre V6 biturbo engine and ‘9G-TRONIC’ sports transmission, the 367 hp roadster consumes just 7.8 litres of fuel per 100 kilometres.

the mercedes-benz ‘SLC’ houses a 3.0-litre V6 biturbo engine

further features of the masculine, sporty front section include a bumper which features striking air intakes, dynamically modelled contours and high-quality chrome trim at the lower edge, and distinctive headlamps. the side view of the ‘SLC’ reveals the typical features of a roadster with a long bonnet, a passenger compartment that is set back and a short rear. the silhouette is defined by the gently rising beltline and the sweeping curve of the roof, the powerfully moulded wheel arches, sporty 16 to 18-inch light-alloy wheels and the ventilation grilles in the front wing.

the roadster long rear trunk

the rear bumper with its black diffuser, chrome touches and integral tailpipe trim signal the dynamic potential of the ‘SLC’. The tail light units, which now have a narrower design, feature LED technology and are divided horizontally: the top and middle lights are the brake and tail light, and below them are the direction indicator and reversing light. the boot lid has a pronounced arrow shape and the third brake light is positioned in the spoiler lip.

the arrow-shaped bonnet

highlights of the interior include new light or dark aluminium trim parts with a carbon fibre finish. the instrument cluster has a new design too. the two tubular instrument surrounds now feature black dials. Red needles also add to the sporty, contemporary design. the mercedes-benz ‘SLC’ will hit the streets in mid-january 2016.

the roof folds mechanically the interior cabin driver is surrounded by dark aluminium trim parts with a carbon fibre finish