The new 2016 Mercedes-Benz SLC – The roadster built on success. PHOTOS AND VIDEOS

2016 Mercedes-Benz SLC
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There it is! Less than 24 hours after we warned you that it might come out today, Mercedes-Benz is releasing the detailed pictures of the 2016 Mercedes-Benz SLC, the SLK with a brand-new name and features to match.

Two decades after the birth of the SLK segment, the roadster gets an all-grown up makeover in terms of looks and techs. The SLC has a reputation to uphold. Its predecessor sold around 670,000 units from the moment it was launched in 1996. Built on success, the new model comes with a name change set to show the affiliation to the C-Class family, from which it inherits much of the technology.

Mercedes-Benz is bringing new additions to the model line-up, starting with the entry-level SLC 180 and going all the way up to the super sporty top-of-the-line Mercedes-AMG SLC 43, featuring the 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission as standard. The automatic transmission is standard also for the SLC 250 d and the SLC 300 and stands as an option for the SLC 180 and the SLC 200. Also standardly fit, there is the diamond radiator grille across the range, while the LED Intelligent Light System comes as an option.

Mercedes-Benz SLC (3)

The SLC 180 entry model boasts a total output of 156 HP and a fuel consumption of 5.6 l/100 km, which equals 128 – 127 g/km CO2 emissions figures. From this point, the only way is up, with the SLC 200, coming with 184 HP and the SLC 300 with all its 245 HP from their 1,991 cc 4-cylinder engines.

The model featuring the letter ‘d’ at the rear, the SLC 250 d, with 204 HP, turns into the champion of efficiency, with a CO2 emissions figure of 114 g/km.Mercedes-Benz SLC (7)

Saving the best for last, Mercedes brings to the road the company’s power-oriented top model, the Mercedes-AMG SLC 43. It comes with 367 HP (270 kW) and 520 Nm of torque, all developed by its 3.0-liter V6 biturbo, accompanied by a refined version of the AMG sports suspension of the SLK 55 AMG. The SLC runs the 0 to 100 km/h distance in 4.7 seconds.

A front high-gloss typical “A-wing” air deflector, the silver chrome front splitter guaranteeing an optimal air flow separate the AMG version from its standard siblings. Its multifunctional sports steering wheel is wrapped in black nappa leather and typically features a flattened bottom area and red contrasting topstitching. The contoured sports seats ensure the much appreciated lateral support.

Extra driving dynamics and delight are optionally offered with the AMG RIDE CONTROL suspension with adaptive adjustable damping and the Handling package with mechanical limited-slip differential on the rear axle.

Mercedes-Benz SLC (11)

The SLC sports the DYNAMIC SELECT button, that, by a simple touch, can modify the response of the engine, steering and suspension according to five driving modes: “Comfort”, “Sport”, “Sport+”, “Eco” and “Individual”.

The optional Dynamic Handling package includes a 10 millimeter lower chassis, an adaptive damping system, direct steering and ESP Dynamic Cornering Assist. With the Dynamic Handling package, the suspension settings can be adjusted in the Comfort, Sport and Sport+ mode.

Just like the Mercedes-AMG C 63, the SLC 43 features an AMG Sport exhaust system as standard, which uses the two adjustable exhaust flaps to adapt the sound to the selected mode via the DYNAMIC SELECT system.

Almost 20 years after its market launch, the model formerly known as the SLK now comes with the safety systems of the future: a standardly fit Active Brake Assist, carrying out autonomous braking to reduce the danger of rear-end collisions, in case the driver fails to react to the warning light in the instrument cluster and the intermittent audio alert. The new system is accompanied by the already familiar Blind Spot Assist and Lane Keeping Assist.

The electrohydraulic vario-roof of the roadster can be opened or closed up to a speed of approximately 40 km/h. Another innovative feature is the automatic boot separator: when the separator is in the upper position for offering an extra boot capacity, it automatically starts moving down once the roof is opened. The instrument cluster will indicate if there is not enough space for the operation, due to too much luggage.

Mercedes-Benz SLC (4)

The SLC pampers its occupants with the heated seats and the AIRSCARF system, but also with the MAGIC SKY CONTROL feature, that allows the glass roof to be lightened or darkened at the simple touch of a button.

In terms of design, the SLC models come with the standard diamond radiator grille. A bumper with huge air intakes and distinctive headlamps with LED daylight running lamps and an arrow-shaped bonnet enhance the looks of the compact muscle roadster. Mercedes-Benz SLC (9)On the side, a high-sheen chrome fin should remind the onlookers of the iconic

The masculine sporty looks of the Mercedes-Benz 300 SLC are rounded up by the black rear diffuser, chrome details and integral tailpipe trim.

Once you step inside, you sense the quality enhancement of the new model. Light (standard) or dark (optional) aluminium trims with a carbon fiber finish emphasize the instrument cluster with a new layout. Black dials with red needles in two tubular surrounds confer the super sporty look of the interior. The multifunctional color 4.5-inch TFT display will indicate the necessary data provided by the COMAND Online infotainment system.

Enough with the figures and the technical details. Now sit back and enjoy the ride in the first ever video of the Mercedes-Benz SLC.