Mercedes-Benz SLC-Class

It's fair to say that the 2020 Mercedes-Benz SLC, at least in automotive terms, is now receiving AARP enrollment letters in the mail. The current-generation car debuted all the way back for the 2011 model year. While there have been some updates over the years, it's still the same basic car underneath.

Rival luxury roadsters such as the BMW Z4 and the Porsche 718 Boxster have undergone full redesigns since then. Even compared to other Mercedes-Benz cars, the SLC feels as if it was plucked from a different era.

It isn't all bad news. The SLC's styling is handsome, and its retractable hardtop design makes it quieter at freeway speeds than its soft-top rivals. It's also available with a long list of luxury features. If you really want a hardtop, check out the SLC. Otherwise we suggest looking elsewhere.

Which SLC-Class does MatoCar recommend?

While the SLC 300 offers a decent open-air experience, we suggest stepping up to the more powerful and much more engaging AMG 43 model. In addition to the twin-turbo V6, it comes with more standard equipment than the base model.

The 2020 SLC comes in two basic flavors: the standard SLC 300 and the sporty AMG SLC 43. Feature highlights include:

SLC 300 Come standard with:

• 241-horsepower four-cylinder engine
• Power-retractable hardtop roof with glass panel
• 17-inch wheels with summer performance tires
• Blind-spot monitoring
• Automatic emergency braking

AMG SLC 43 Adds to the SLC 300 with:

• A 385-hp V6 engine
• AMG sport exhaust
• 18-inch wheels with summer performance tires
• LED headlights
• Harman Kardon audio system
• Heated seats with Mercedes' Airscarf neck warmer
• Dual-zone climate control
• Keyless entry and ignition

Main options for the SLC:

• Driver Assistance package (extra driver safety aids)
• Multimedia package (navigation and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto)
• AMG Handling package (sport suspension and limited-slip rear differential)
• Magic Sky Control roof (adjusts the tinting of the roof-panel glass)

To celebrate the end of production, Mercedes-Benz is offering a limited-run SLC Final Edition for both the SLC 300 and the AMG SLC 43. Features include:

• Final Edition badges inside and out
• Unique paint and wheel options
• A few otherwise optional features as standard