2017 Mercedes-Benz SLC Spied Blasting on the Ring, Possible AMG Sport Version

With the GLS full-size SUV already launched on the world wide web and the SL facelift nearing its due date as well, sightings of the SLK facelift - to be named SLC in line with the new Mercedes-Benz nomenclature - have begun to intensify. After all, the tiny two-seater is the last model in the range to be updated to the new design language, if we’re willing to admit that the G-Class is a separate brand that functions by its own rules.

We’ve already seen the car testing on the roads, but now it’s been caught doing laps on the famous Nordschleife where every self-respecting manufacturer takes its prototypes for testing. While a car does not have to be sporty to make it to the `Ring, we do think this SLC taped here is hiding something under its long hood.

What exactly is anyone’s guess, as Mercedes-Benz and its AMG arm have so many options at their disposal (and not always that much logic in distributing them inside the range) that the SLC could end up with a variety of powertrains. Recent reports quoting undisclosed sources inside the company indicated that the AMG version could get a V6 twin turbo. On the other hand, there was no explicit reference to such a move. In fact, the quote can be interpreted to mean that the new SLC AMG will get the 4.0-liter V8 engine in the AMG GT. A toned-down version of it, of course, but still a twin turbo V8.

Judging by the engine sound in this clip, that’s clearly not the case. Actually, it sounds more like the 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine in the A45 AMG is what’s making the SLC go fast, and that actually wouldn’t be such a bad idea at all. Making the SLC as light as possible while also giving it 381 hp sounds like the right combination, and the way it drives on track only comes to confirm it. The cackling of the exhaust is just an added bonus. Enjoy.