The current generation of the SLC has undergone many changes since its introduction in 2011. Back then, it was called the SLK and could be outfitted with a hot-rod V8. That V8 is no longer around, but the core appeal of the 2018 Mercedes-Benz SLC is the same: It serves as a compact version of the brand's flagship convertible SL, offering similar design and prestige at a lower price.

The SLC's two trim levels are defined by the available engines: a four-cylinder and a more powerful V6. Though the bigger engine comes with sportier equipment, both SLCs offer the same options. Determining what's right for you just depends on how fast you want to go.

Overall, the 2018 SLC's luxury focus helps distinguish it from the rest. It's the only one with a convertible hardtop, for instance. But all the same, it's probably worth checking out rivals such as the all-wheel-drive Audi TT, the muscular Chevrolet Corvette, and the sporty Porsche 718 Boxster.

2018 Mercedes-Benz SLC-Class configurations

The two-seat 2018 Mercedes-Benz SLC Convertible is available in two trim levels that are differentiated by their engines. The SLC 300 has a turbocharged four-cylinder, while the sporting AMG SLC 43 offers a powerful turbo V6. The latter also comes with more standard equipment and performance-oriented features including upgraded brakes and paddle shifters. Both cars have a nine-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive and offer the same option packages.

The SLC 300 employs a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine (241 horsepower, 273 pound-feet of torque). Standard features include a power-retractable hardtop with a fixed glass roof panel, 17-inch alloy wheels, xenon headlights, Bluetooth, power-adjustable seats with memory function, simulated-leather upholstery, a rearview camera, a 7-inch infotainment display, and an eight-speaker audio system with HD radio. Safety features include integrated roll bars and a forward collision alert and mitigation system.

Shoppers can choose from one of three Premium packages. The first brings an upgraded Harman Kardon sound system, heated seats, keyless ignition and entry, and blind-spot monitoring. It also includes Mercedes' Airscarf system, which blows warm air around your neck from the seat for drop-top driving on cool days. The Premium 2 package includes the aforementioned features and adds navigation, LED headlights, dual-zone climate control, and support for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The Premium 3 package brings driver assistance features such as adaptive cruise control and lane keeping assist.

The AMG SLC 43 derives its name — somehow — from its twin-turbo 3.0-liter V6 (362 hp, 384 lb-ft of torque). Along with a more potent engine, this trim level comes standard with the Premium 1 package. Due to its sporty nature, the SLC 43 also has 18-inch wheels, cross-drilled brake rotors, a sport exhaust system, a steering wheel lined with simulated suede, and paddle shifters.

Aside from the Premium 2 and 3 packages described above, the SLC 43 is also available with the AMG Handling package that adds a limited-slip differential, a sport-tuned suspension, a steering wheel with synthetic suede inserts, and an IWC analog clock.

Driving

We've found previous versions of this car to be reasonably athletic and quite enjoyable when going around turns. Yet the ride should be smooth and composed, too. Most roadsters can't marry the two characteristics harmoniously, though it's very much in keeping with the brand's family values.

Comfort

You can always expect a pleasing experience from a Mercedes, with optional features such as heated seats, an adjustable suspension, and the Airscarf system, which blows warm air from the seat on cold days.

Interior

The SLC's interior displays the high-quality look and feel you expect from a Mercedes. It can feel a little intimate, but that's because it's a smaller vehicle. The glass roof lets in the sun even when you don't want it to, requiring the optional Magic Sky Control.

Utility

You can't expect much trunk space from a hardtop convertible, but the SLC offers 10.1 cubic feet with the roof up and 6.4 cubic feet with it folded. Though tight, that's still enough to accommodate weekend luggage.

Technology

Many Mercedes models have received larger, more feature-rich entertainment systems, but the SLC sticks with a 7-inch display. Available Android Auto and Apple CarPlay support are welcome additions.

Consumer reviews

Read what other owners think about the 2018 Mercedes-Benz SLC-Class.

Overall Consumer Rating

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Great Sports Car

Connie,01/02/2018

This is a very nicely appointed vechicle. Performance is really good. Not so good in snow but that's to be expected.

JOEBENZ

JOEBENZ,01/09/2018

Fast and beautiful looking car black especially with the top down

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Features & Specs

MSRP

$48,400

MPG

25 city / 32 hwy

Seats 2

9-speed shiftable automatic

Gas

241 hp @ 5550 rpm

MSRP

$61,350

MPG

20 city / 29 hwy

Seats 2

9-speed shiftable automatic

Gas

362 hp @ 5550 rpm

See all 2018 Mercedes-Benz SLC-Class features & specs

Safety

Our experts’ favorite SLC-Class safety features:

Rearview Camera: Shows what's behind the vehicle to make backing up easier and safer.
Dual Integrated Roll Bars: Protects the heads of occupants in the event of a rollover.
Blind Spot Assist: Notifies you if it senses a vehicle in your blind spots.

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More about the 2018 Mercedes-Benz SLC-Class

2018 Mercedes-Benz SLC-Class Overview

The 2018 Mercedes-Benz SLC-Class is offered in the following submodels: SLC-Class Convertible, SLC-Class AMG SLC 43. Available styles include SLC 300 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 9A), and AMG SLC 43 2dr Convertible (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 9A).

What do people think of the 2018 Mercedes-Benz SLC-Class?

Consumer ratings and reviews are also available for the 2018 Mercedes-Benz SLC-Class and all its trim types. Overall, Edmunds users rate the 2018 SLC-Class 5 on a scale of 1 to 5 stars. Edmunds consumer reviews allow users to sift through aggregated consumer reviews to understand what other drivers are saying about any vehicle in our database. Detailed rating breakdowns (including performance, comfort, value, interior, exterior design, build quality, and reliability) are available as well to provide shoppers with a comprehensive understanding of why customers like the 2018 SLC-Class.

Edmunds Expert Reviews

Edmunds experts have compiled a robust series of ratings and reviews for the 2018 Mercedes-Benz SLC-Class and all model years in our database. Our rich content includes expert reviews and recommendations for the 2018 SLC-Class featuring deep dives into trim levels and features, performance, mpg, safety, interior, and driving. Edmunds also offers expert ratings, road test and performance data, long-term road tests, first-drive reviews, video reviews and more.

Our Review Process

This review was written by a member of Edmunds' editorial team of expert car reviewers. Our team drives every car you can buy. We put the vehicles through rigorous testing, evaluating how they drive and comparing them in detail to their competitors.

We're also regular people like you, so we pay attention to all the different ways people use their cars every day. We want to know if there's enough room for our families and our weekend gear and whether or not our favorite drink fits in the cupholder. Our editors want to help you make the best decision on a car that fits your life.

Which 2018 Mercedes-Benz SLC-Classes are available in my area?

Shop Edmunds' car, SUV, and truck listings of over 6 million vehicles to find a cheap new, used, or certified pre-owned (CPO) 2018 Mercedes-Benz SLC-Class for sale near. Simply research the type of car you're interested in and then select a car from our massive database to find cheap vehicles for sale near you. Once you have identified a used vehicle you're interested in, check the Carfax and Autocheck vehicle history reports, read dealer reviews, and find out what other owners paid for the 2018 Mercedes-Benz SLC-Class.

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Edmunds has deep data on over 6 million new, used, and certified pre-owned vehicles, including rich, trim-level features and specs information like: MSRP, average price paid, warranty information (basic, drivetrain, and maintenance), features (upholstery, bluetooth, navigation, heated seating, cooled seating, cruise control, parking assistance, keyless ignition, satellite radio, folding rears seats ,run flat tires, wheel type, tire size, wheel tire, sunroof, etc.), vehicle specifications (engine cylinder count, drivetrain, engine power, engine torque, engine displacement, transmission), fuel economy (city, highway, combined, fuel capacity, range), vehicle dimensions (length, width, seating capacity, cargo space), car safety, true cost to own. Edmunds also provides tools to allow shopper to compare vehicles to similar models of their choosing by warranty, interior features, exterior features, specifications, fuel economy, vehicle dimensions, consumer rating, edmunds rating, and color.

Should I lease or buy a 2018 Mercedes-Benz SLC-Class?

Is it better to lease or buy a car? Ask most people and they'll probably tell you that car buying is the way to go. And from a financial perspective, it's true, provided you're willing to make higher monthly payments, pay off the loan in full and keep the car for a few years. Leasing, on the other hand, can be a less expensive option on a month-to-month basis. It's also good if you're someone who likes to drive a new car every three years or so.

2018 Mercedes-Benz SLC-Class

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Utility

Technology

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