SPY PICS: Mercedes-Benz SLC

While Mercedes-Benz has been pouring resources into expanding its small car and SUV portfolios, the company has also been quietly beavering away on an update for its SLK roadster, which is expected to be rebadged as the SLC.

These new spy photos show a pre-production version of the revised SLK/SLC testing in Europe and confirm the compact drop-top will get another facelift before being completely renewed later in the decade, based on previous model cycle timing.

The first-generation SLK (R170) launched in 1996, then in 2004 came the second-gen (R171) and in 2011 the current model (R172). Given that, an all-new fourth-generation (R173) is likely in 2018.

Although it's difficult to discern the exact changes to the new model, which should make its debut either later in 2015 at the Frankfurt motor show or early in 2016 at Geneva, the new-look headlight cluster appears to take on a more rounded look in a tip of the hat to the wildly successful C-Class.

The new model will certainly be offered in Australia and along with the new front and rear end styling, should bring more features inside a revised cabin, including updated infotainment and comfort systems.

Mercedes-Benz Australia will release an update to the current SLK later in 2015, which will add more torque to entry-level SLK 200 models (lifting from 270Nm to 300Nm), while SLK 300 models get a 25kW power hike to 180kW.

Other changes to that model, which will flow into the 2016 SLK seen in these spy pics, include the adoption of a nine-speed automatic transmission and the possible fitment of a six-speed manual.

It's not clear how Mercedes-Benz performance hot shop AMG will tackle the new SLC/SLK, because in the past it has used V8 engines in the top-shelf hi-po model, but with a more efficient twin-turbo V6 now available, pumping out a healthy 270kW/520Nm, the company has options.