Used 2018 Mercedes-Benz SLC

If you can’t decide between a fun and free-spirited convertible or a stylish, buttoned-down luxury coupe, you’ll get both in the 2018 Mercedes-Benz SLC. That’s because Mercedes’ small 2-seater has a hardtop roof that transforms this vehicle from one shape to another. That hardtop roof also distinguishes the SLC from rivals such as the Jaguar F-Type, Porsche 718 Boxster and Audi TT. Even the forthcoming, all-new BMW Z4 is shedding its former folding metal roof in favor of lighter fabric. In true Mercedes fashion, the SLC is sporty but still favors a more comfortable ride compared to its rivals — good news for those who want to loaf along the coast vs. carve the canyons. Starting under $50,000, the SLC is also a relative value in this segment.

With a turbocharged 4-cylinder engine worth 241 ponies powering the rear wheels, Mercedes’ compact roadster gets up and moves swiftly. The SLC300’s 0-60-mph time is clocked at 5.8 seconds, which is still faster than most other cars on the road. The SLC doesn’t have the razor-sharp handling of a Porsche Boxster, but it has the edge in overall comfort. As an everyday driver, we think the SLC is more livable. Moreover, the SLC’s driving characteristics can be modified with the press of a button. Five drive modes, ranging from eco-minded to comfort-oriented to the aggressive Sport Plus, change characteristics such as steering feel, throttle mapping and shift points. Speaking of, the latest SLC uses a 9-speed automatic transmission. While we’re still on the fence about some of today’s 9-speeds, those used in Mercedes’ are among the smoothest we’ve experienced.

Mercedes-Benz is a luxury-car maker, so it’s no surprise that premium amenities are the biggest strength of the 2018 SLC. Whether covered in MB-Tex faux leather or real hides, the seats are comfortable, even though there’s not a lot of room for taller drivers. The audio and climate controls aren’t as svelte as those of fresher Mercedes models, but they are still easily accessed and simple to use, and we love the satisfying tactile quality of the knobs and switches. A supplemental rotary knob below the gear selector controls infotainment functions. The electronic gear selector itself is a small nub of a thing that can be awkward to use at first. With the top up, the trunk boasts a respectable 10.1 cubic feet of space. Keep in mind that it shrinks to 6.4 with the top down.

With the hardtop up, the 2018 SLC-Class looks a lot like a coupe, albeit a somewhat awkward one thanks to the cap-like way the roof sits over the passenger compartment. Still you’d be hard-pressed to tell it’s actually a convertible unless you see it with the top down, and then you’re in for more of a visual treat. Its long hood, short trunk and wide stance give the SLC that classic roadster look. That top retracts in only 20 seconds, too. At under 163 inches, the Mercedes SLC is tiny — just a bit bigger than a Mazda Miata — which makes it a cinch to maneuver around town and easy to park in small spaces.

GLASS-PANEL ROOF
A secure, hardtop roof isn’t the only thing that separates the 2018 SLC’s roof from those of its rivals. The SLC comes with a glass panorama roof, which brings the outside in even with the roof up. Add the Magic Sky Control ($2,500), and you can instantly toggle the tint from clear to opaque.

AIRSCARF & AIR GUIDES
It’s fun to drive a convertible on a cold day, but not if you’re getting chilled. To keep you warm, the SLC-Class has adjustable Air Guide draft deflectors on each rollbar, and the Airscarf system to blow warm air on your neck from an outlet in the headrest.

The 2018 Mercedes-Benz SLC300 includes a nice roster of standard features including power-operated seats with memory function, power-adjustable steering wheel, HomeLink universal garage remote, 17-inch wheels and panorama roof. The infotainment system includes a 7-inch display, dual USB ports, Bluetooth connectivity, and 8-speaker AM/FM/CD audio system with HD Radio receiver. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity are available as part of an options package or bundled together for an extra $350. The SLC’s safety systems include a system that monitors for driver drowsiness, and another that can automatically apply the brakes if a collision appears imminent.

Beyond the Magic Sky Control roof, most other major options can be found bundled into packages. The recommendable Premium 1 Package, for example, includes the Airscarf neck-warmer, heated seats, blind-spot monitoring, and upgraded Harman/ Kardon audio system. The Premium 2 Package adds dual-zone climate control, LED headlights with adaptive high beams, navigation and a classy analog clock. With the Premium 3 Package come driver-assistance features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assistance, and a system that helps you parallel park. An adjustable suspension is also available, as are AMG body styling features and 18- or 19-inch wheels.

The Mercedes-Benz SLC300 is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder that puts out 241 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque, sending it to the rear wheels through a 9-speed automatic transmission. This powertrain provides a good blend of power and efficiency. It is strong enough to propel the SLC to 60 mph in less than six seconds while returning up to 32 mpg on the highway. If you’re looking for a more powerful SLC, you’ll probably want to step up to the V6 in the Mercedes-AMG SLC43, reviewed separately. Keep in mind that the Mercedes drinks the pricier premium unleaded gasoline.

2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4
241 horsepower @ 5,500 rpm
273 lb-ft of torque @ 1,300-4,000 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 25/32 mpg