2017 Mercedes AMG SLC43 Roadster

Test Drive

Written by Katerina Krjanina and Marco Carvajal

Photographs by Katerina Krjanina

Introduction

The new 2017 Mercedes Benz SLC is a car legacy forward with significantly optimized technology and amazing look. No words need it to describe this great sport car, but let’s go over a few details.

Perhaps the most notable update in the SLC is the new pair of engines. It’s the midrange six-cylinder and the honkin’ AMG eight-cylinder. The SLC will now come in two trims the Mercedes-Benz SLC300 and the Mercedes-AMG SLC43. The Dynamic Select feature offers five driving modes, including Comfort, Sport, Sport+, Eco, and Individual drive mode.

Engine

Let’s talk about the SLC model, the convertible Mercedes AMG SLC43 Roadster. The new Mercedes‑AMG SLC43 is a high‑performance Mercedes, which includes an AMG‑enhanced 362‑hp 3.0‑liter V‑6 biturbo engine that delivers 384 lb‑ft of torque. It features a 9‑speed automatic transmission as well as a Dynamic Select transmission. This function allows you to adjust the vehicle’s driving characteristics and match your personal driving style just with a click of a button. On the Mercedes‑AMG SLC43 models, the adjustable flaps on the AMG Sport exhaust system changes depending on the driving mode selected.

With the AMG Mercedes models you’ll get more than just a powerful engine. It also comes with a special suspension tuning and two unique options which are adjustable dampers and a mechanical limited-slip differential.

As I drive the AMG SLC43 I have the feeling of entering a racing track, I feel I am ready to compete in the Formula 1, the engine is powerful and very fast. Just 2 seconds of acceleration to go from 1 MPH to 60 MPH. I usually don’t like to race cars, but this luxury sport convertible brings my racing instincts and takes my imagination far into the race theater. I can feel the audience and other cars competing and racing again the SLC43. In addition to this fun sport feeling, this car is a very luxury convertible, trendy, and stylish. It is very fancy with a very modern-sport look. Anywhere I drive with this car, I can see the eyes of pedestrians and other drivers pointing at the cool convertible I am driving. It is a fun toy to own, and if we talk about price, it has a nice price range when we compared to other luxury convertibles with a sales price of less than $79,000 for this Mercedes convertible.

Key Highlights

2.0-liter turbo inline 4-cylinder engine-241 hp, 273 lb-ft of torque (SLC300); or an AMG-enhanced 3.0-liter V6 biturbo engine-362 hp, 384 lb-ft of torque (AMG SLC43)
0-60 mph in 5.7* seconds (SLC300), 4.6* seconds (AMG SLC43)
9-speed automatic transmission
DYNAMIC SELECT driving modes
AIRSCARF neck-level heating system
Rearview camera
Available MAGIC SKY CONTROL
Intelligent Drive safety and convenience systems such as Active Brake Assist, Blind Spot Assist and others
COMAND infotainment system
Newly designed instrument cluster
Next-generation sport steering wheel

Exterior & Interior

The Mercedes-AMG SLC43 includes more aggressive fascia elements to enhance the sport and elegant look of this automobile. The exterior has changed slightly in the 2017 version of the Mercedes‑AMG SLC43. New LED daytime running lights what gives a nice touch and look. Inside changes are minimal; the 2017 Mercedes‑AMG SLC43 Roadster has some minor adjustments to controls and a new, three-spoke steering wheel. The interior now includes a 7.0-inch infotainment screen and a 4.5-inch display between the gauges. The SLC also includes a new autonomous emergency braking system for the first time.

The bold front section, long arrow‑shaped hood and muscular wings give to this Mercedes an outstanding design and look. The electrohydraulic vario‑roof can be operated even when driving at speeds up to 25 mph. Since the Mercedes‑AMG SLC43 is more fun to drive with the top down, optional features such as heated seats ensure that this convertible maintains the perfect on‑board climate regardless of the weather. The climate control future allows you to extend the duration of your top‑down driving season. Standard rearview camera, side mirrors are making cruising and parking even more pleasant and easier than ever.

New standard safety features includes Active Brake Assist, which uses radar-based proximity sensors to autonomously brake to reduce the chances or severity of a rear-end collision depending on vehicle speed. Active safety tech includes Blind Spot Assist and Lane Keeping Assist.

The Mercedes Comand Infotainment system features a new 7.0-inch high-res color screen, hard disc navigation system, internet access, DVD player, internet radio, bluetooth phone and music streaming, voice-operated control, two USB ports and a SD card slot. It features additional characteristics like iPhone/iPod integration, including phone book import and music album cover art display.

The 2017 Mercedes‑AMG SLC43 will offer two new interior colors including Saddle Brown and Platinum White. Colors are available in Nappa leather. Pretty clear and bright new exterior colors include Solar Red, Polar Blue, and Polar White.

Bottom Line

The 2017 Mercedes‑AMG SLC43 Roadster is an absolutely beautiful convertible vehicle to own. This Mercedes provides you with a fun and pleasant cruising experience. This car is powerful, fast and road stable, with great exterior and amazing interior futures. If you are looking for a family car skip it, if you are looking for a fun sport and luxury modern car for 2 passengers, then this is your baby. Get ready to feel a wish to race and enjoy the powerful and fast engine combined with a great sport and fancy look.