Mercedes AMG SLC43 2017 Review

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Be it annihilating Jebel Hafeet or simply cruising down Jumeirah Beach Road, the Mercedes AMG SLC43 is a roadster that sits in a class of its own. Delivering on the top-down, mood-up mantra of vehicles in its class, the SLC is a great all-rounder that is dedicated to those who not only enjoy a comfortable drive to work, but also fancy satisfying their speed demons when they take over.

Key Features:
Engine	3.0L Twin-Turbo / V6
Transmission	9-speed automatic
Power	367 Hp / 520 Nm
Top Speed	250 km/h
Price	AED 247,000

Exterior

As a sign of appreciation for the 20th anniversary of the SLK, Mercedes-Benz has decided to go all out and replace the SLK-line with something even more sophisticated: the SLC43 AMG. Despite retaining its classic proportions, the SLC has gone through a complete overhaul.

The revised German coupe comes with a power hard top that takes it from a classy coupe to an open-top roadster within seconds. An innovative fold-back wind deflector ensures unhindered rear visibility while redesigned LED headlamps and taillamps complement the overall menacing aura of the vehicle.

You might also be interested in: Mercedes Benz SLC300 2017 Review

Interior

Despite retaining most of its predecessor’s characteristics inside the cabin, the SLC is given some very careful tweaks that bring out its understated elegance. The day we tested the SLC, it was cold and foggy, and the Distronic Cruise Control helped to keep a steady distance from the car in front while visibility remained near to none.

The new Air Scarf neck-level heating and heated seats proved to be quite useful as well, leaving both my co-driver and I, warm and toasty. The two-seater cockpit was exceptionally comfortable too, even during long, ambitious road trips.

On sunny days, the sunroof can be activated with Magic Sky Control variable-tint, meaning the glass can be darkened or left transparent to suit your liking. The user-friendly 7-inch display offers Apple CarPlay and Android Auto meaning effortless phone connectivity is a given.

Safety & Features

Onboard the SLC are the latest technologies including, but not limited to, a radar-based Active Brake Assist, Lane Assist, Blind Spot Assist, and Attention Assist. While the Active Brake Assist utilizes several sensors to keep a steady distance from the vehicle in front, Attention Assist uses numerous sensors to gauge driver drowsiness and deliver a suitable alert.

Having said that, the Mercedes AMG SLC43 2017 is more than just a swanky tech fest. After all, it is built on a structure that is composed of dual fiber-reinforced roll bars. Although the SLC hasn’t undergone any formal crash tests, its array of safety features are enough denote its strong stand.

You might also be interested in: Mercedes Benz SL400 2017 Review

Drive

Letting go of the V8 engine from the roadster’s line-up put off several car enthusiasts at first. However, the all new V6 Bi-Turbo 9-gear setup is a change that many have welcomed with open arms. A new engine means that now the SLC43 AMG delivers 367BHP and 0-100 km/h in just 4.6 seconds. Breathtaking performance is a byproduct of the patented ultra-low friction NANOSLIDE cylinder walls that Mercedes initially developed for Formula 1 race cars.

Out from the tailpipes, the SLC makes just the right sounds on every gear to tickle your skin. Even though the SLC43 AMG is equipped with such instant-speed technology, we weren’t kidding when we earlier said that the SLC is a great all-rounder.

For the first time in Mercedes-Benz history, they have equipped the SLC line-up with Dynamic Select, a feature that lets the driver choose one of five drive modes. Ranging from Eco to Sport+, there’s a map to suit every mood, making them all fun. The newly introduced 9G-TRONIC transmission offers 9 gear ratios, but narrows the steps in between with a dual-clutch system.

Verdict

Striking the right balance between luxury and sportiness, the SLC is a phenomenal contender in the Best Daily Roadster contest. If it doesn’t appeal from a logical standpoint, it’s sure to tug on your heartstrings, either way, you’re bound to fall in love with it.

Pros:

- Outstanding performance

- Well-built cabin

- An array of technological features

Cons:

- Unsatisfyingly small gear lever

Competitors:

Porsche 718 Boxster

Audi TTS

Jaguar F-Type S

Editor’s Pick:

Mercedes AMG C63 S 2017 Review

Mercedes Benz V Class launched in the UAE

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