Mercedes-AMG finally prices 'new' SL-Class

MERCEDES-AMG Australia has priced the SL 63 4Matic+ this week, the stylish model continuing a legacy that extends almost 70 years – and which has included some of the world’s most iconic cars.

This time, the 2+2 soft-top roadster -- which was launched in Europe is 2021 -- bristles with even more luxury, technology, safety and style, as well as a sizzling twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8 delivering an astonishing 430kW/800Nm to all four wheels via AMG’s crisp-shifting nine-speed Speedshift MCT transmission.

The engineering crew from Affalterbach say the new ‘SL’ shares not a single component with its predecessor, nor with the AMG GT Roadster.

Instead, it was designed from a clean sheet of paper and comprises a lightweight aluminium and composite body with a self-supporting structure Mercedes-AMG says provides “the perfect basis for precise dynamics, high comfort, optimal packaging and sporty body proportion”.

The vehicle uses in its construction a mix of aluminium, magnesium, fibre composites and steel to provide the highest possible rigidity at a low weight (1920kg kerb).

Compared with the previous model series, the torsional rigidity of the body increases by 18 per cent, while transverse rigidity is rated at 50 per cent higher than the comparable AMG GT Roadster. The vehicle’s longitudinal rigidity is 40 per cent better than before.

It is also slipperier than before with “a key development focus” of the model to find the “perfect balance between low drag and reduced lift”.

Mercedes-AMG said it leveraged its extensive experience in motorsport to create aerodynamic elements that serve to enhance the vehicle’s character and driving characteristics whether driving with the roof up or down. Technical highlights of the SL’s aerodynamic system include frontal louvres which aim to reduce lift and a retractable rear spoiler for increased stability when required.

The retractable soft-top of the SL 63 – which replaces the metal vario roof of its predecessor – is electrically operated and brings a 21kg reduction in weight to the body, further improving its centre of gravity. It can be opened of closed in 15 seconds at speeds up to 60km/h.

But perhaps it is what’s under the bonnet that has AMG fans most excited. For possibly the last time in an SL-Class, the ‘63’ features a twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8 producing an immense 430kW at 5500-6500rpm and 800Nm from 2500-5000rpm. Mercedes-AMG quotes a 0-100km/h time of just 3.6 seconds and a v-max of 315km/h.

Enhancements to the engine include a newly designed oil pan, repositioned intercoolers and active crankcase ventilation, while the intake and exhaust manifolds have also been “optimised”. Mercedes-AMG says increased output “was achieved primarily through higher boost pressure and greater air flow, as well as modified engine software”.

The vehicle’s fuel consumption is listed at 13.9 litres per 100km on the WLTP Combined cycle with CO2 emissions of 319 grams per kilometre.

The mighty V8 is paired with AMG’s Speedshift MCT 9G transmission which promises shorter shift times and optimised throttle response. Gears seven through nine are overdriven. The unit disperses drive to all four wheels via an AMG Performance 4Matic+ arrangement that is said to “provide fully variable torque distribution to the front and rear axles, ensuring optimal traction right up to the physical limit”.

In another first, rear axle steering is also included as standard. It joins dynamic engine mounts, an electronic locking rear differential, adaptive anti-roll stabilisation and damping, a front axle lift function, lightweight 21-inch alloy wheels in grey, electromechanical speed-sensitive steering, and an optional high-performance carbon composite braking system.

When optioned, the composite rotors measure 390mm up front and 360mm at the rear and are clasped by yellow-painted six-piston and single-piston callipers respectively.

Venturing inside the cabin, we find AMG sports seats upholstered in Exclusive Nappa leather, Airscarf neck-warming technology, front seat heating and cooling, eight-way powered seat adjustment with memory, a heated AMG Performance steering wheel with AMG-specific controls, augmented reality head-up display, a 650-watt and 11-speaker Burmester surround sound system, 64-colour ambient lighting package, dual-zone climate control and a mechanical wind deflector.

Infotainment arrives courtesy of Mercedes’ MBUX tablet-style central screen measuring 11.9 inches and including an array of “extended function”. The system naturally includes full smartphone integration, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, and wireless device charging.

Other highlights include an S-Class-esque Digital Light (headlight) system with directional micro-mirrors, AMG-specific radiator grille, front apron, side air intakes, rear apron, side skirts and bonnet power domes, standard metallic paint, flush-fitting door handles, and keyless entry and go.

The Mercedes-AMG SL 63 4Matic+ is further equipped with an exceptionally comprehensive safety package which includes adaptive cruise control, active lane keeping assist, traffic sign assist, route-based speed adaption, active traffic assist, active steering and lane change assist, eight airbags, tyre pressure monitoring, a 360-degree camera system, active parking assist, anti-theft alarm and much more.

“With the new SL, we have created a repositioning of the iconic SL design,” said Mercedes-Benz Group chief design officer, Gorden Wagener.

“The expressively modelled exterior conveys a light and purist impression and brings sensual beauty and extravagant design into perfect harmony.”

The new Mercedes-AMG SL 63 4MATIC+ is priced at $374,900 plus on-road costs and is available to order now.