Mercedes-Benz SLC-Class Is Dead, Next AMG GT and SL-Class to Share Platform
Looks like it’s the end of the line for Merc’s compact, two-seat roadster.
Once the default gift for affluent young women celebrating their Sweet 16, the Mercedes SLC-Class (formerly and likely better known as the SLK) is reaching the end of its life. According to Automobile Magazine, an unnamed source from the German automaker said the SLC is set to be axed from Mercedes-Benz's future model plans.
We at The Drive can't say we're particularly surprised by this news, considering both Benz's quite-crowded current lineup of two-door vehicles and the small roadster's declining relevance in the minds of the motoring public. Be honest, when was the last time you saw or even thought about this car?
The SLC's absence does leave Benz wanting for a competitor to BMW's upcoming "ToyoBimmer" Z5. However, considering the abundance of two-door platforms Merc already has at its disposal, this could easily be rectified.
In addition, Mercedes says that the next generations of AMG GT and SL will be based on the same new lightweight architecture—which lines up with previous reports that AMG is not-so-secretly develeping the next-generation, Porsche 911-baiting SL. The report goes on to suggest the discontinuation of the lovely land yachts that are the S-Class Coupe and Cabriolet, with 2-door variants of both the C- and E-Classes being moved upmarket. Guess we'll have to wait and see to know for sure, though.