The Mercedes-Benz SLC Class of 2017 marks an evolution in the roadster lineage, building upon the sporty foundation laid by its predecessor, the SLK. Mercedes-Benz has progressively shifted its SL models towards a bolder and more assertive design language, and the SLC continues this trend, projecting a more masculine and dynamic persona through subtle yet effective styling enhancements. While the SLK of the past leaned towards a softer, touring convertible aesthetic, the SLC generation confidently steps closer to realizing its full roadster potential.
This transformation to the SLC moniker brings with it a subtly intensified masculine appeal. This is primarily achieved through a redesigned front end, refined lower bodywork, and a series of carefully considered interior updates. These design revisions, most notably at the front, are both impactful and immediately noticeable. The grille adopts a more upright and rounded form, yet simultaneously appears more open and assertive. It features inset chromed points and is harmoniously integrated with more sculpted and defined lower bodywork.
This revised front fascia subtly tricks the eye, potentially leading one to believe the hood line has been raised slightly at the front, although this is not the case. Viewing the SLC in profile reveals minimal alterations, preserving the sleek silhouette. At the rear, the updates are equally nuanced, with new taillights and a redesigned bumper – primarily achieved through subtle reshaping of the plastic covering – contributing to a refreshed appearance.
Despite the inherent challenges in achieving optimal pedestrian safety and crash test ratings within the compact dimensions of short wheelbase shapes and low-slung coupes, Mercedes-Benz has successfully crafted an elegant silhouette for the SLC. The design manages to extract a sense of refined sophistication from its form, incorporating design cues borrowed from iconic models like the AMG SLS gullwing and other high-end vehicles in the Mercedes-Benz stable.
However, mirroring the design language of the current SL, the transition from the SLC’s assertive and somewhat blunt front end to its softer, gently tapering rear section might not appeal to all design purists. Nevertheless, the updated rear treatment effectively grounds the tail design, lending it a more cohesive and planted appearance. Notably, the SLC retains its striking visual appeal when driven with the top down, arguably surpassing its top-up aesthetics, even though the roofline remains elegantly contoured when closed. With the retractable roof stowed away, the rear view of the SLK, now SLC, becomes particularly distinctive, the seatbacks ingeniously echoed in its metallic twin roll bars, creating a signature roadster look.
The high-performance variant, the SLC43, while sharing the fundamental sheet metal with the standard models, distinguishes itself through a plethora of unique visual elements. A gloss-black air deflector, more substantial lower outer air intakes accented with silver chrome fins, and a silver chrome front splitter immediately set the SLC43 apart. Further enhancing its aggressive stance is a gloss-black and diamond-patterned radiator grille. The exterior is further individualized with gloss-black 18-inch AMG alloy wheels and gloss-black mirror housings, creating a high-contrast aesthetic. Silver-chrome accents and quad-flow chrome exhausts seamlessly integrated into a silver chrome diffuser apron complete the performance-oriented exterior enhancements.
For the 2017 model year, the interior welcomes a new flat-bottom steering wheel, aiming to create an initial impression of significant freshness within the driver’s cockpit. However, shifting focus beyond this element reveals a more evolutionary approach to the interior design. Mercedes-Benz has upgraded the infotainment screen to a 7-inch display, yet it remains integrated within the dashboard, contrasting with the tablet-style standalone screens featured in more contemporary Mercedes-Benz models.
In general, the interior of the SLC may not exhibit the same level of intricate detailing and opulent materials found in some other Mercedes-Benz vehicles. The SLC carries over the previous generation’s audio and car control interfaces, employing a variety of buttons and switches rather than the more modern rockers and knobs. The drive selector, for instance, utilizes a single button, requiring drivers to cycle through driving modes instead of offering the direct access of a toggle switch. Adding a touch of sporty flair, meaty metallic ribs extend from the flat-bottomed steering wheel, and metallic tubes encase the cleanly designed analog gauges, which have been restyled this year with a darker background for enhanced clarity.
In conclusion, the 2017 Mercedes-Benz SLC Class represents a thoughtful refinement of the roadster formula. While the changes are evolutionary rather than revolutionary, the subtle design enhancements effectively contribute to a more masculine and contemporary roadster aesthetic, solidifying its position in the Mercedes-Benz lineup and the broader roadster market.
