Now that the Mercedes-Benz SLC-class roadster is nearing the end of its life, a Final Edition model joins the lineup for 2020.
The special trim package is offered on both the four-cylinder SLC300 and V-6 AMG SLC43 versions of the droptop and includes unique visuals inside and out, including an eye-popping yellow exterior color for the AMG version.
As we wait for the SLC Final Edition cars to go on sale next year, marking the end of this generation's run, rumors continue to swirl about what Mercedes might be planning for its next-generation small sports car.
Over the course of its three generations, Mercedes-Benz's small retractable-hardtop convertible has become largely forgotten—both under its original SLK nameplate and since it was renamed SLC a few years ago. So the new 2020 SLC Final Edition model seems to serve as a reminder that the SLC does in fact still exist, even if it isn't long for this world.
Twenty-three years after its debut, the third-generation roadster hasn't strayed far from the formula of the original, retaining its compact, rear-wheel-drive underpinnings and retractable metal hardtop. In case you forgot, the SLC-class currently offers an SLC300 model with a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four and an AMG SLC43 version with a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V-6. Both of these SLCs will be offered with the sendoff package in the United States, with the SLC300 Final Edition coming in Selenite Gray and the SLC43 coming in the Sun Yellow color you see here (pictured on a Euro-spec SLC300). According to Mercedes, this yellow is meant to evoke the launch color of the original SLK, a bright hue called Yellowstone that was out of the ordinary in the context of Benz's usual staid color palette.
Other than the color, the SLC Final Editions also feature black and chrome trim bits on the outside, five-spoke 18-inch AMG wheels, a black and silver leather interior with carbon-fiber finishes, and Final Edition badges on the fenders and the floor mats. They also come equipped with otherwise optional features such as memory seats and the Airscarf feature that blows warm air on the driver's and passengers' necks.
The end of the line for the current SLC leads us to wonder what Mercedes-Benz has up its sleeve next. One particularly enticing rumor we've heard is that Mercedes-AMG is working on a mid-engine sports car to do battle with the Porsche 718 Boxster and Cayman. Hopefully by the time these SLC Final Edition models go on sale in 2020, we'll know more about what could be in store next.
