After two decades of selling its SLK model in the compact roadster segment, Mercedes has decided to re-launch the car as the ‘SLC’, the name change acknowledging this model’s traditionally close relationship with the brand’s C-Class saloon, a car with which it shares most of its technology.

There are fresh additions to the model line-up too - like the sporty top-of-the-line Mercedes-AMG SLC 43. In visual terms, stand-out features include the standard-fit diamond radiator grille and the optional LED Intelligent Light System.

The mainstream engines are much as before. So the SLC 200 offers 184bhp and the SLC 300 delivers 245bhp, both variants using a 1991 cc four-cylinder petrol engine. The efficiency champion remains the 204bhp diesel model, the SLC 250d. For high performance, there’s a fresh range flagship, the Mercedes-AMG SLC 43. This car mates a 367bhp, 3.0-litre V6 biturbo engine with a modified version of the AMG sports suspension familiar from the old Mercedes-AMG SLK 55, and the combination is reflected in the sporty performance figures, with the SLC 43 accelerating from rest to 62mph in 4.7 seconds. Buyers will like the ‘DYNAMIC SELECT’ vehicle dynamics system, one of those that enables you to alter your car’s engine, transmission, steering and suspension characteristics at the touch of a button. Plus there’s an optional sports exaust and a smoother 9-speed auto gearbox that’s standard further up the range.

As part of the facelift that’s transformed the SLK into this SLC model, the Mercedes-Benz designers have tried to further hone this roadster’s sporty look. There’s a re-styled front section that sees the steeply raked diamond radiator grille elongate the appearance of the arrow-shaped bonnet. As with the SLK, you get an electrically-operated panoramic folding hard-top vario-roof that you can operate at speeds of up to 25mph. This can come with a ‘MAGIC SKY CONTROL’ option allowing you to lighten or darken the glass top at the touch of a button. Plus we’d also want to pay extra for the ‘AIRSCARF’ neck-level heating system. The 335-litre boot continues to be the biggest in the segment.

In summary, a powerful package. If you believed that the two-seat roadster was becoming a selfish and irresponsible indulgence, Mercedes clearly thinks it can persuade you otherwise.

  • CAR: Mercedes SLC
  • PRICE: £30,495 – £46,360 on the road
  • INSURANCE GROUP: 43
  • CO2 EMISSIONS: 114-178g/km
  • PERFORMANCE: (200 Sport) 0-62mph 7s / Max Speed 149mph
  • FUEL CONSUMPTION: (200 Sport) (combined) 43.5mpg
  • STANDARD SAFETY FEATURES: Twin front & side airbags, anti lock brakes with brake assist, electronic stability control
  • WILL IT FIT IN YOUR GARAGE?: Length/Width/Height mm 4133/1810/1301mm