Mercedes-Benz SLC 2011-2020 review

• For: Folding hard-top roof, refinement, image
• Against: Dated, stodgy handling, impractical
• Verdict: We’d rather have a Porsche Boxster

Launched in 2011 as the SLK, Mercedes-Benz’s smallest sports car was facelifted in 2016, when it adopted the SLC name.

The car was discontinued in 2020, signing off with the high-spec SLC Final Edition in our photos. We recently saw the new Mercedes-AMG SL, but the slow-selling SLC won’t be replaced.

Central to the SLC’s appeal is an electric metal roof, which delivers all-weather practicality and enhanced security when parking the car outside. Watching it acrobatically flip, fold and disappear beneath the rear deck is always fun.

However, there’s no denying the SLC was showing its age, especially when viewed in the context of the rest of the Mercedes range.

Run-out versions cost from £37,000, with the flagship V6-engined SLC 43 Final Edition edging beyond £50,000. For used car buyers, depreciation is now your friend.

The SLC is more of a cool cruiser than a true sports car, which limits its appeal. We’d have the rival Porsche Boxster every time.

A future classic? Maybe, but not for a long time yet.

KEY INFO

• Launched: 2011
• Facelifted: 2016
• Sales ended: 2020