The Mercedes-Benz SLC Roadster represents a harmonious blend of sporty performance and luxurious comfort, continuing the legacy of its predecessors while embracing modern technology and design. The 2018 Mercedes-Benz SLC 300 model stands out as an enticing option within this lineup, offering a compelling entry point into the world of premium roadsters. This article delves into the key features, specifications, and model year updates of the 2018 SLC 300, providing a comprehensive overview for prospective buyers and automotive enthusiasts alike.
Exploring the 2018 Mercedes-Benz SLC 300: An Overview
With a starting MSRP of $48,400 (excluding destination and delivery charges), the 2018 Mercedes-Benz SLC 300 Roadster positions itself as an accessible yet sophisticated choice in the luxury roadster segment. It caters to drivers seeking open-top exhilaration without compromising on the refined driving experience and premium features synonymous with the Mercedes-Benz brand. While the lineup also boasts the higher-performance Mercedes-AMG SLC 43, the SLC 300 offers a balanced approach, blending everyday usability with engaging dynamics.
For the 2018 model year, Mercedes-Benz introduced subtle yet significant enhancements to the SLC 300, further elevating its appeal. These updates, while not revolutionary, contribute to a more refined and personalized ownership experience.
2018 Model Year Enhancements for the SLC 300
The 2018 Mercedes-Benz SLC 300 incorporates several noteworthy changes, adding to its standard features and offering new customization possibilities. One of the most visible updates is the introduction of standard mirror logo lamps, projecting the iconic Mercedes-Benz star onto the ground, adding a touch of elegance and brand distinction.
Alt text: Mercedes-Benz star logo lamp projection on ground, a standard feature for the 2018 SLC 300, enhancing brand visibility and vehicle aesthetics.
Inside the cabin, drivers now have the option to select a Sport Steering Wheel finished in Leather and DINAMICA microfiber, providing enhanced grip and a sporty feel. This optional steering wheel caters to those seeking a more dynamic driving experience and a touch of motorsport-inspired aesthetics within the luxurious interior.
A significant highlight for the 2018 SLC 300 is the availability of the striking SLC RedArt Edition. This special edition package enhances the visual appeal and exclusivity of the roadster through a series of carefully curated design elements.
The Standout SLC RedArt Edition
The SLC RedArt Edition is designed to make a bold statement. It features an exclusive Selenite Grey Metallic exterior paint finish, providing a sophisticated and modern backdrop for the edition-specific design cues. Chrome hood fins add a touch of classic Mercedes-Benz elegance, while Sport brakes with red calipers immediately signal enhanced performance capabilities and visual flair.
Alt text: Front view of the 2018 Mercedes-Benz SLC 300 RedArt Edition showcasing Selenite Grey Metallic paint, chrome hood fins and red trim accents on bumper.
The RedArt Edition rides on distinctive 18-inch wheels, further contributing to its sporty stance. Red trim elements are strategically placed on the front and rear bumpers, as well as the side air vents, injecting vibrant accents and emphasizing the dynamic lines of the SLC Roadster.
Stepping inside, the interior of the SLC RedArt Edition continues the striking theme with two-tone Black and Silver Pearl leather upholstery, accented with red stitching. This creates a visually engaging and luxurious cabin environment. Aluminum trim with a Dark Carbon Grain finish adds a modern, sporty texture to the interior surfaces.
Alt text: Interior detail of 2018 Mercedes-Benz SLC 300 RedArt Edition featuring two-tone Black/Silver Pearl leather seats with red accents and aluminum trim with Dark Carbon Grain.
For enhanced comfort and convenience, heated seats and the AIRSCARF® neck-level heating system are included in the RedArt Edition, ensuring a pleasant open-top driving experience even in cooler conditions. Edition-specific floor mats, a unique steering wheel, and a distinctive shift lever further differentiate the RedArt Edition, completing the exclusive package.
Standard Features of the 2018 Mercedes-Benz SLC 300
Even beyond the RedArt Edition, the 2018 Mercedes-Benz SLC 300 is generously equipped with a range of standard features designed to enhance safety, performance, and comfort. For enhanced visibility and safety, a rearview camera is standard, aiding in parking and maneuvering. The smooth and responsive 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission ensures efficient power delivery and comfortable cruising.
The SLC 300 features a dual integrated roll bar for enhanced occupant protection in case of a rollover. DYNAMIC SELECT allows drivers to tailor the car’s driving characteristics to their preferences, with modes ranging from Comfort to Sport. Active Brake Assist provides an added layer of safety by helping to prevent or mitigate frontal collisions.
Visually, the SLC 300 makes a statement with its diamond grille, a hallmark of modern Mercedes-Benz design. An electric trunk partition enhances practicality, while pre-wiring for Garmin® MAP PILOT® navigation simplifies the process of adding navigation functionality. The standard Sport Exhaust System on the SLC 300 delivers a pleasingly sporty engine note, enhancing the driving experience.
In terms of connectivity and assistance, the SLC 300 includes the eCall-Emergency System and mbrace LTE, offering safety and convenience features. The retractable hardtop can be operated even while driving at speeds up to 25 mph, providing quick transitions between open and closed-top driving. Active LED headlamps provide bright and efficient illumination, while 18-inch wheels contribute to the car’s balanced handling and aesthetics.
Inside the cabin, ambient lighting with 3 color options allows for personalization of the interior atmosphere. A Brilliant Blue paint finish is offered as standard, while a 7-inch display screen serves as the interface for infotainment and vehicle settings. New aluminum trim parts with a carbon fiber finish are available, adding a touch of modern sportiness to the interior.
Optional Features to Personalize Your SLC 300
To further tailor the 2018 SLC 300 to individual preferences, Mercedes-Benz offers a comprehensive list of optional features. The Sport Package with AMG Sport Styling and 18-inch AMG wheels amplifies the sporty aesthetics and handling dynamics. Optional ambient lighting with a wider range of colors allows for even greater interior personalization.
Dynamic LED Headlamps and Adaptive Highbeam Assist can be added for enhanced visibility in various driving conditions. Parking Assist simplifies parking maneuvers, while KEYLESS-GO® provides convenient keyless entry and start. For open-top comfort, AIRSCARF® and MAGIC SKY CONTROL® (a panoramic vario-roof with adjustable transparency) are popular options. The COMAND® Infotainment System offers advanced navigation, multimedia, and connectivity features.
Performance and Specifications of the 2018 SLC 300
Under the hood, the 2018 Mercedes-Benz SLC 300 is powered by a responsive 2.0-liter inline-4 turbo engine. This powerplant delivers 241 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 273 lb-ft of torque, available from 1,300 to 4,000 rpm. Power is sent to the rear wheels via the 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission.
This combination allows the SLC 300 to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in a brisk 5.8 seconds, with an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph. Fuel economy is respectable for a sporty roadster, with EPA estimates of 25 mpg city, 32 mpg highway, and 27 mpg combined.
Dimensionally, the SLC 300 Roadster measures 162.8 inches in length, 71.5 inches in width (with mirrors), and 51.3 inches in height, with a wheelbase of 95.7 inches. It has a curb weight of 3,384 lbs.
In the competitive roadster segment, the 2018 Mercedes-Benz SLC 300 competes with models like the BMW Z4 sDrive 28i and Audi TT Roadster, offering its own blend of Mercedes-Benz luxury, technology, and open-top driving enjoyment.
Conclusion: The Enduring Appeal of the 2018 Mercedes-Benz SLC 300
The 2018 Mercedes-Benz SLC 300 Roadster stands as a compelling choice for those seeking a premium and engaging open-top driving experience. With its blend of refined performance, luxurious features, and stylish design, further enhanced by model year updates and the striking RedArt Edition, the SLC 300 continues to embody the spirit of the iconic Mercedes-Benz roadster lineage. It offers a balanced and sophisticated entry point into the world of luxury convertibles, appealing to drivers who appreciate both open-air thrills and everyday usability.
