CarGurus expert rating: 2 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 4.7 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 30.6%
Overall CarGurus rating:* 3.8 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 50
Average Price: Around £14,600

Mercedes-Benz SLC (2016-2020) Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Folding metal roof adds security	Boot space reduces with the roof down
Glamorous looks	Dated and cramped interior
Boot is a reasonable size with the roof up	Not exciting to drive nor comfy to travel in

Quick Summary

The Mercedes-Benz SLC (2016-2020) is the renamed third-generation SLK, a stylish roadster with an innovative folding hardtop. Launched in 1996, the SLK became renowned for providing glamour at a more accessible price than the larger SL. The 2016 rebrand brought minor updates including a new steering wheel and styling tweaks, though the SLC remains fundamentally similar to its predecessor. The Final Edition models now feature sporty bodykits, electric part-leather seats, metallic paint, Bluetooth connectivity, cruise control, and satnav as standard, with Premium variants adding LED headlamps, a reversing camera, and glass roof.

However, the SLC's driving experience is distinctly laid-back and uninspiring. It doesn't handle well, leaning excessively through corners with heavy, numb steering that fails to engage. Comfort is also compromised, with the car jolting and jittering across imperfect surfaces at low speeds. The SLC 200 and SLC 300 petrol engines offer decent performance but deliver reedy, synthetic engine notes. Fuel economy of 30-35mpg is unimpressive for the class, and Mercedes servicing costs are expensive with no discounted menu pricing after three years. Reliability data from the earlier SLK suggests below-average dependability, and Mercedes-Benz finished 19th out of 24 manufacturers in the 2019 JD Power Vehicle Dependability Study.

Best for: Buyers seeking a glamorous convertible with a secure folding metal roof and those who prioritise style over driving dynamics or comfort.

Not ideal for: Drivers wanting engaging handling, comfortable long-distance travel, practical boot space with the roof down, or excellent value for money and low running costs.


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the SLC if: You prioritise glamorous styling and the security of a folding metal hardtop roof, and are willing to compromise on driving dynamics and comfort.

Consider alternatives if: You seek engaging handling, comfortable long-distance travel, practical boot space with the roof down, or excellent value and low running costs.

Competitive Position: The Mercedes-Benz SLC (2016-2020) occupies an awkward middle ground in the premium convertible market. Whilst it offers glamorous styling and a secure folding roof, its uninspiring driving experience, cramped interior, and unimpressive fuel economy place it at a disadvantage against rivals. The Audi TT Roadster and BMW Z4 both score higher on expert ratings and offer better value, whilst the Porsche 718 Boxster, though more expensive, delivers a vastly superior driving experience that justifies its premium. The SLC's main strength lies in its distinctive design and roof mechanism, but these alone may not compensate for its shortcomings in dynamics, comfort, and practicality.

Read our full Mercedes-Benz SLC Review

*The Overall CarGurus rating: that informs these recommendations is based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from May 2026, CarGurus expert reviews, and CarGurus user reviews.