Mercedes-Benz India has launched the SLC43 AMG today to replace the SLK55 at Rs 77.5 lakh, ex-showroom Delhi. This is the company’s sixth product launch this year.
First showcased at the Detroit motor show in early 2015, the SLC 43 AMG is the first 43 badged car to be launched in India. Although it is based on the SLK and does look similar to it, it gets its share of updates with the facelift. On the front, the SLC gets an all new diamond grille (standard Mercedes-Benz family design element) and a rehashed bumper that gets larger vents. The head lights are new as well. The rear is flanked by tail lights which are similar to the C-Class (true to is name, SLC) along with the exhaust pipes.
On the inside, the design elements have been retained from the SLK. Subtle changes include a flat-bottomed sporty steering wheel, addition of an all new 7-inch COMAND system, new instrument cluster and AC vents lifted straight from CLA/A/GLA. The roof is a foldable hardtop and can be opened or closed at speeds up to 40kmph.
The downsizing of engines continues here and the SLC43 gets a downsized engine too. The SLC gets a 3-litre twin-turbo V6 petrol which churns out 362bhp and 520Nm of torque. The convertible is expected to sprint to 100kmph in 4.7 seconds and max out at 250kmph. The engine is mated to a 9-speed transmission which also does duty in the recently launched GL.