Introducing the Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class, which made its debut in the 1998 model year as Mercedes-Benz's response to the recently introduced Porsche Boxster and BMW Z3. Setting a new standard, it was the first in its segment to feature a power-retractable hard top. Over time, the lineup expanded to include AMG models, and in 2017, the series was rebranded as the SLC-Class for the following model year.