2017 Mercedes-Benz SLC-Class Review

Standard features for the SLC300 include 17-inch alloy wheels, a power-retractable hardtop with a fixed glass roof panel, xenon headlights, LED daytime running lights and taillights, a dual-mode exhaust system, power-folding heated mirrors, automatic wipers, a rearview camera, eight-way power seats with memory functions, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, MB-Tex premium vinyl upholstery, automatic climate control, selectable driving modes and a driver information screen. Entertainment features consist of a 7-inch central display screen, Bluetooth and an eight-speaker audio system with HD radio, two USB ports and an SD card slot.

The SLC300's Premium 1 package adds remote roof operation, keyless entry and ignition, the Airscarf neck heater, heated seats, an 11-speaker Harman Kardon surround-sound audio system and satellite radio.

Stepping up to the AMG SLC 43 gets you the contents of the Premium 1 package, a more powerful engine, 18-inch wheels, larger brakes, sportier transmission tuning, a sport suspension, a sport body kit, a rear spoiler, a performance exhaust, a power-adjustable steering wheel, and leather and simulated-suede upholstery.

The AMG Handling package is unique to the SLC 43 and adds a mechanical limited-slip differential, a leather-and-simulated-suede-wrapped steering wheel and a clock designed by luxury watchmaker IWC.

Both trims have two available options packages. The Premium 2 pack includes the features from Premium 1, as well as adaptive LED headlights with automatic high-beam control, blind-spot monitoring, dual-zone climate control, an analog clock, interior ambient lighting, navigation, voice controls, a CD/DVD player and smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Premium 3 package includes all of these features, plus adjustable suspension dampers, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, front and rear parking sensors, and an automated parking system.

Some of the above items, such as Apple CarPlay/Android Auto integration, can be ordered separately from the packages. Several standalone options are available for both trims, such as full leather upholstery, upgraded interior trim elements and Magic Sky Control, which darkens the roof's glass panel.

The SLC300 is powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 241 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. Rear-wheel drive, a fuel-saving engine start-stop system, and a nine-speed automatic transmission with steering wheel-mounted shift paddles are standard. Mercedes says the SLC300 will sprint from zero to 60 mph in 5.7 seconds, an average time for a small sports car with a base engine. The EPA estimates the SLC300 will return fuel economy of 27 mpg combined (25 city/32 highway).

The AMG SLC 43 is driven by a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 with 362 hp and 384 lb-ft. of torque on tap. It is paired to an AMG-tuned version of the nine-speed automatic and should make the sprint to 60 mph in 4.6 seconds, Mercedes says. EPA-estimated fuel economy stands at 23 mpg combined (20 city/29 highway).