SL-Class

Segment
Compact

Formerly known as the SLK, the Mercedes SLC roadster is one of the oldest cars in the German automaker's lineup having been on sale since 2011, but its future is looking uncertain. Based on comments made by Mercedes-AMG boss Tobias Moers to Digital Trends, the SLC could be facing the axe soon. "I don't know, it's under discussion. Under construction, so to speak," he said when asked about the SLC's future fate. While he hasn't confirmed the SLC's demise, we wouldn't be surprised if it gets the chop.

It's a niche model that isn't selling well, and Mercedes-AMG is also reportedly working on a third model to join the GT Coupe and GT 4-Door Coupe in the form of an entry-level sports coupe to compete against the Porsche 718 Cayman. If it gets the green light, keeping the SLC in production would seem hard to justify. While the SLC's fate is uncertain, the larger SL is still safe and will be renewed for another generation. He added the next-generation SL will go back to its roots, so we can expect it to evolve from a grand tourer to a more performance-focused model. As for reports suggesting AMG will be in charge of its development, Moers denied this claim.

"I heard about that rumor. That rumor is wrong," he told the publication. Earlier this year at Geneva, Mercedes confirmed there will be big changes to the next-generation SL. It will reportedly lose its retractable hard-top roof and gain a couple of rear seats to help differentiate it from the AMG GT. Due to go on sale in 2021, the seven-generation Mercedes SL will also adopt rear-wheel steering, optional air suspension, all-wheel drive and a longer wheelbase.