Stunning new Mercedes-AMG SL-Class unveiled

MERCEDES-BENZ has pulled the silk sheet from its all-new SL-Class coupe-convertible revealing a stunning 2+2 seat sportscar and replacement for the equally gorgeous AMG GT Roadster.

Like the GT, the R232-series Sport Leicht will sell under the AMG moniker, the first time the SL nameplate has moved away from its parent’s branding in more than 70 years. 

The SL rides on all-new platform and showcases a frontal design dominated by Mercedes’ CLS-inspired Panamericana grille and headlight treatment. The streamlined profile includes pop-out doorhandles for improved aerodynamic performance and reduced wind noise, and a three-layer fabric roof that’s not only quieter, but also 21kg lighter.

The folding roof can be raised or lowered in 15 seconds at speeds up to 50km/h, the lighter structure certain to lower the SL’s centre of gravity, improving handling considerably. Weight savings continue with an all-new composite body structure combining aluminium, carbon-fibre, and magnesium which also increases rigidity by 18 per cent over the outgoing model.

At the rear, the SL is identified by quad exhaust outlets and AMG performance diffuser, wide LED taillights (with six settings), and optional Aerodynamic Package including active underbody panels and more substantial rear diffuser.

The leather-clad interior of the four-seat SL boasts the latest driver assistance and infotainment technology Mercedes-Benz has on offer. The dashboard is dominated by a “floating” 11.9-inch portrait-oriented MBUX infotainment screen and 12.3-inch instrument panel which join a new head-up display system with fighter-aircraft-style augmented reality technology.

AIRSCARF neck-level heating joins heated seats and a heated steering wheel, the latter ‘AMG Performance’ type electrically adjustable for that “just right” driving position.

Under the bonnet the SL-Class features Mercedes-AMG’s biturbo 4.0-litre V8 in two states of tune. SL 55 4MATIC models output 350kW/700Nm – for a 0-100km/h time of 3.9 seconds and a top speed of 295km/h – while the range-topping SL 63 4MATIC+ makes a tyre-shredding 430kW/800Nm – good for a 0-100km/h dash of 3.6 seconds and 315/h top whack.

Drive is sent to all four wheels via a nine-speed auto with launch control and Mercedes-Benz’s proven 4MATIC system with variable torque distribution and front-rear electromechanically controlled clutch arrangement. Six driver selectable modes are available via a steering wheel toggle including Slippery, Comfort, Sport, Sport+, Individual, and Race. 

A rear electronically controlled limited slip diff is standard on SL 63 variants while Active Ride Control suspension promises even sharper handling and a “significantly improved ride”. Composite steel high performance brakes are standard issue, but 19, 20, and 21-inch wheels will be available.

GoAuto understands a plug-in hybrid variant is also in the works, but only V8 petrol power will be offered when the model goes on sale here in the second half of next year. Pricing and local specifications will be outlined closer to the model’s Australian launch.