The Mercedes-Benz SLC-Class, designated R172, was introduced in January 2011 in Stuttgart and showcased at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show. The SLC was ultimately discontinued after the 2020 model year. The design of the R172 incorporates elements from previous generations and draws inspiration from the 1950s 190 SL roadster and the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Coupé and CLS-Class (W218).