Mercedes-AMG SLC43 debuts in Malaysia – RM571k

The sixth AMG 43 series model introduced at the AMG 50 Years event in Sepang today is the Mercedes-AMG SLC 43. The model is the range-topper in the Mercedes-Benz SLC line-up, and arrives here seven months after the SLC 200 and SLC 300 AMG Line made their local debut.

Revisions carried out to the third-gen R172 roadster to bring it from its SLK form into the present include a new bumper, a new diamond radiator grille and reshaped headlamps (LED Intelligent Light units, in this case) at the front, and a new rear valence insert with integrated exhaust tips and a new tail light design at the back.

Like every other AMG 43 model introduced by Mercedes-Benz Malaysia today, the SLC 43 is equipped with a M276 DELA 30 twin-turbo V6 mill, the 3.0 litre unit pushing out a familiar 362 hp (or 367 PS) at 5,500 to 6,000 rpm and 520 Nm of torque from 2,000 to 4,200 rpm. Of the lot, only the unit in the E 43 variant has a higher state of output tune.

The lump is paired with an AMG-tuned nine-speed 9G-Tronic torque converter automatic transmission, which boasts specifically-adapted software for shorter shift times and features multiple downshifts and a double-declutching function in Sport and Sport + modes as available via the AMG Dynamic Select system, which offers five different drive modes – in addition to the above, there’s Comfort, Eco and Individual.

Performance figures include a 0-100 km/h time of 4.7 seconds and an electronically-governed 250 km/h top whack.

Other bits include an AMG mechanical rear-axle limited-slip differential, an AMG high-performance composite braking system (larger, perforated front brake discs) and a sports exhaust system equipped with two automatically map-controlled flaps – in normal modes (Eco and Comfort), the flaps remain closed most of the time, but open earlier and more spontaneously in Sport and Sport+ modes.

The Malaysian-spec SLC 43 comes equipped with an AMG Ride Control suspension and rides on 18-inch AMG multi-spoke wheels. The car comes equipped with a TireFit kit, and also on is a Night Package, which adds high-gloss black-themed styling add-ons.

The car’s AMG Line interior brings about exclusive nappa leather upholstery and AMG carbon-fibre trim elements as well as the usual AMG door sill panels and floor mats. The SLC 43 also features a new three-spoke AMG Performance multi-function steering wheel, dressed in nappa/Dinamica microfibre.

The panoramic glass vario-roof – which can be operated at speeds of up to 40 km/h – comes with Magic Sky Control, which allows for the glass to be lightened or darkened to suit exterior lighting conditions. Also present is a semi-automatic boot separator, Airguide wind deflectors, a Thermotronic dual-zone climate control, a reverse camera and Keyless Go.

Other standard equipment includes Comand Online – which has been updated with new graphics and now comes with a seven-inch screen and supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto – and a Harman Kardon Logic 7 surround sound system.

The Mercedes-AMG SLC 43 is priced at RM570,888, on-the-road, without insurance. With Agility Financing, and based on a downpayment varying from 27% to 33% with a five year tenure, the monthly instalment for the SLC 43 can be as low as RM5,708. With a Hire Purchase Classic scheme, it’s RM7,265.

You can read our French test drive report of the SLC 43, and view the complete specifications of the car at CarBase.my.