2019 Mercedes-Benz SLC: A Carimports.co.ke Review

The Big Picture

The 2019 Mercedes-Benz SLC is the swan song of the compact roadster. Origin: Germany (Bremen). First Generation: 1996 (as the SLK R170). Current Generation: Discontinued (Production ended in 2020). Formerly known as the **SLK**, it was renamed SLC in 2016. The 2019 model is part of the "Final Edition" run, celebrating over 20 years of the Vario-Roof (hardtop convertible). It offers a refined, wind-in-your-hair experience with the security of a metal roof.

Quick Specs

Clearance 125 mm
Tank Size 60 Litres
Power 184 - 390 HP
Roof Hardtop

Engine Options & Model Codes

Two key models for Kenya:

  • SLC 200 / SLC 300 (2.0L Turbo): 184 HP / 245 HP. STANDARD The 4-cylinder M274 engine is punchy and reliable. The SLC 300 hits 0-100 in 5.8s, which is plenty fast for a weekend cruiser.
  • AMG SLC 43 (3.0L V6 Bi-Turbo): 390 HP. The performance choice. It crackles, pops, and provides serious speed (0-100 in 4.7s).

Interior & Practicality

  • Vario-Roof: The roof folds into the boot in under 20 seconds. It can be operated at speeds up to 40 km/h. With the roof up, it is as quiet as a C-Class coupe.
  • Dated Tech: The 2019 model still uses the older COMAND system (with a number pad!), not the modern MBUX screens. However, it supports Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, which is all you really need.

Fuel Efficiency & Ownership Costs

  • Consumption: 12–14 km/l (SLC 200). Efficient for a sports car.
  • Service: The M274 engine is shared with the C-Class and E-Class, so parts are readily available in Nairobi. The roof mechanism is complex—keep the seals lubricated to avoid squeaks and leaks.

Suitability for Kenyan Roads

Compact Dimensions: Its small footprint makes it easy to park in Westlands. 125mm clearance is low, but better than a Jaguar F-Type. It handles speed bumps acceptably if taken slowly.

Prices for 2019 Mercedes-Benz SLC for Sale in Kenya

The following prices represent the cost of buying a 2019 Mercedes-Benz SLC (R172 Final Edition) in Kenya. These prices reflect showroom asking prices in major towns including Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, Nakuru, and Eldoret.

Trim Level Import Cost (Approx) Showroom Price Difference
SLC 200 AMG Line Ksh 4.5M Ksh 5.2M Ksh 700,000
SLC 300 AMG Line Ksh 5.2M Ksh 6.0M Ksh 800,000

The Ci Verdict

Who is this for? The driver who wants a stylish convertible that is easy to live with every day and doesn't require a racing license to handle. Who is it NOT for? Tech junkies—the interior feels a generation old.

Meet the Rivals

BMW Z4 (G29)

Newer, faster, soft top only, better tech.

View Z4 Stock »
Porsche 718 Boxster

The benchmark driver's car. More expensive to buy and run.

View Boxster Stock »

Ready to Import?

We have this model available for import today.

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