Mercedes' new SLC stunner for SA: We have prices!

Cape Town - To coincide with its 20-year anniversary, the SLK compact roadster will be relaunched locally in April 2016 with a new name - the SLC - as well as significantly enhanced technology and design tweaks.

The entry-level model is the SLC 200 (135kW/300Nm) followed by the SLC 300 with 180kW/370Nm.

AMG-badged SLC

The top-of-the-range Mercedes-AMG SLC 43 (270kW/520Nm) is the performance orientated model, powered by a 3.0-litre V6 biturbo engine with a modified version of the AMG sports suspension borrowed from the SLK 55.

Furthermore, the SLC 43 comes with the option of AMG Ride Control sports suspension with adaptive damping adjustment (R17 900).

New sporty design

The SLC features a new front-end with its steeply raked radiator grille elongating the appearance of the arrow-shaped bonnet.

The SLC also features the Stuttgart-based firm's 'dynamic select' which changes the vehicle characteristics at the touch of a button.

The system adjusts engine, transmission, steering and suspension (the latter in conjunction with the Dynamic Handling package) at the driver's command.

Dynamic select is a standard feature in the SLC 300 and in the SLC 200 with 9G-Tronic, transmission mode selection is available as an option.

Cool features

A feature that continues to be unique to the SLC, it was available on the SLK too, is the panoramic vario-roof with Magic Sky Control (R28 000) - this glass roof can be lightened or darkened.

The electrohydraulic roof can be opened or closed at a speed of 40km/h. Mercedes has added another new feature; automatic boot separator (in conjunction with the optional vario-roof convenience feature or optional Keyless-Go): if the separator is in the upper position for increased boot capacity, it automatically moves down when the roof is opened.

Expect standard equipment on the SLC such as active brake assist, attention assist, panoramic vario-roof, multi-function sports steering wheel in nappa leather and LED tail lamps.

Optional on the SLC are cornering LED Intelligent headlamps (R20 000 option) which automatically adapts to all light and driving conditions. Adaptive Highbeam Assist Plus (in conjunction with the LED Intelligent Light System), allows main beam to remain switched on without dazzling other road users.

Prices

SLC 200 - R680 600
SLC 300 - R753 400
SLC 43 - R988 000

*The SLC will be launched locally in April.