The new Mercedes-AMG SL, the new edition of an icon, returns to its roots with a classic soft top and sporty character. At the same time, the luxurious roadster as a 2+2 seater is particularly suitable for everyday use and puts its power down on the road with all-wheel drive for the first time. High-tech components such as the AMG ACTIVE RIDE CONTROL suspension with active anti-roll stabilisation, rear-axle steering, the optionally available AMG ceramic high-performance composite brake system and the standard-fit DIGITAL LIGHT with projection function sharpen the sporty profile. In combination with the AMG 4.0-litre V8 biturbo engine, this results in a driving experience of the highest order. As a consistent Performance Luxury model, Mercedes-AMG in Affalterbach has developed the SL completely independently. Two models with AMG V8 engines will kick off the market launch.

Almost 70 years ago, a sports car launched in Stuttgart immediately became a legend. The vision of expanding the potential of the Mercedes-Benz brand through motor racing successes produced the first SL as a result – a road-going racing sports car. Shortly after its début in 1952, the 300 SL (internal designation W 194) reaped success after success on the race tracks of the world. In its first year, it achieved, among other things, a spectacular one-two victory in the legendary 24 Hours of Le Mans and even took the first four places in the Nürburgring Grand Jubilee Prize for sports cars. Its successes quickly make the SL a legend.

Balanced design with sporty genes

The new SL combines the best of both worlds in its exterior design: the Mercedes-Benz design philosophy of sensual purity, combined with the sporty genes of AMG. Characteristic details such as the power bulges on the bonnet respectfully cite the long SL tradition. The balanced design simultaneously offers more function and space in the interior than before. The interplay of light and shadow makes the overall appearance visually light. Every detail conveys value and exclusivity. The muscular proportions signal at first glance that the new SL has returned to its sporty roots.

High everyday suitability with 2+2 seats and “hyperanalogue” cockpit

The interior of the new SL transforms the tradition of the first 300 SL Roadster into the modern era. With its Mercedes-AMG performance genes, the new edition serves the sporty target group as well as customers who are focused on maximum comfort. Fine materials, meticulous workmanship and attention to detail further underscore the high standard of luxury in the interior. The cockpit design, right up to the electrically adjustable central display in the centre console, is focused on the driver and captivates with a harmonious overall impression. The completely redesigned dimensional concept with 2+2 seats offers more function and space in the interior at the same time. The MBUX infotainment system offers a choice of several specific display styles and different modes.

New roadster architecture with composite aluminium structure for maximum rigidity

It began in 1952 with a filigree space frame, which in the first SL combined low weight with the highest possible torsional rigidity. This construction was conceived for its original use in motorsport and further developed to provide the backbone for the later production model in coupé and roadster form. The latest new edition of the roadster icon is based on a completely new vehicle architecture developed by Mercedes-AMG. The lightweight composite aluminium chassis offers the highest rigidity and the basis for precise driving dynamics, high comfort, optimal packaging and sporty body proportions.

Less weight and low centre of gravity

The sporty positioning of the new SL also suggested the decision for an electric soft top instead of the previous metal vario-roof. The 21-kilogram reduction in weight and the resulting lower centre of gravity have a positive effect on driving dynamics and handling. At the same time, the developers were faced with the task of maintaining the high suitability for everyday use and the exemplary noise comfort.

Great variety and more choice than ever before

At market launch, the new roadster starts with two output levels of the AMG 4.0-litre V8 biturbo engine. And for the first time in its history, the SL also transfers the power to the road with all-wheel drive.

In the top model SL 63 4MATIC+ (combined fuel consumption 12.7-11.8 l/100 km, combined CO2 emissions 288-268 g/km) the engine develops 430 kW (585 hp) and provides a maximum torque of 800 Nm over a wide rev range from 2500 to 4500 rpm. The roadster’s top engine thus conveys effortless superiority in every rev range. The acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.6 seconds illustrates this, as does the top speed of 315 km/h. In the Mercedes-AMG SL 55 4MATIC+ (combined fuel consumption 12.7-11.8 l/100 km, combined CO2 emissions 288-268 g/km), the V8 engine delivers 350 kW (476 hp) and a peak torque of 700 Nm. The sprint from standstill to 100 km/h takes 3.9 seconds, the top speed is 295 km/h.

Multi-link front axle and active anti-roll stabilisation

The SL 55 4MATIC+ is equipped as standard with a newly developed AMG RIDE CONTROL steel suspension with particularly light and capable aluminium shock absorbers including adjustable damping and lightweight coil springs. For the first time, a series-production Mercedes-AMG vehicle is fitted with a multi- link front axle with five links arranged entirely within the rim. This significantly improves the kinematics. The independent wheel control and wheel suspension elements enable high lateral acceleration values with minimal drive influences on the steering system. At the rear axle, a 5-link design likewise controls the wheels. The SL 63 4MATIC+ also celebrates the première of the innovative AMG ACTIVE RIDE CONTROL suspension with active, hydraulic anti-roll stabilisation. The system enables even better turn-in and load change behaviour with typical AMG dynamics, precision and feedback for the driver. At the same time, it increases ride comfort when driving in a straight line and over bumps.

Combines agility and stability

For the first time in its long history, the SL is equipped with active rear-axle steering as standard. Depending on the speed, the rear wheels steer either in the same or in the opposite direction as the front wheels. The system, which is precisely tuned to the new SL, thus enables both agile and stable handling. Other advantages include easier vehicle control at the limits and less steering effort because the front- wheel steering ratio is more direct at 12.8:1 (instead of 14.2:1 without rear-axle steering).

Vehicle characteristics with wide spread

The six AMG DYNAMIC SELECT driving modes “Slippery”, “Comfort”, “Sport”, “Sport +”, “Individual” and “RACE” (RACE driving mode standard on S 63 4MATIC+, included in the optional AMG DYNAMIC PLUS Package on the SL 55 4MATIC+) enable a wide spread of vehicle characteristics from comfortable to dynamic.

Active aerodynamics for high balance and more efficiency

A key development focus of the new SL was high aero efficiency. This means a perfect balance between low drag and reduced lift. Here, the luxurious roadster benefits from Mercedes-AMG’s wide-ranging motorsport expertise. The extensive active aerodynamic elements at the front and rear are seamlessly integrated into the exterior design. Further detailed measures reduce the drag coefficient to Cd 0.31 – an excellent figure for open-top sports cars. The good aerodynamics reduce consumption and stabilise handling.

A wide range of design options for an individual appearance

The equipment items and the numerous options offer a wide range of possibilities for individualising the new SL – from sporty and dynamic to luxuriously elegant. Twelve paint colours including the two exclusive paints hyper blue metallic and MANUFAKTUR monza grey magno, three roof variants, numerous new wheel designs in sizes 19 to 21 inches and various exterior design packages make the choice a pleasure.

Helpers in the background

With the help of numerous sensors, cameras and radar, the driving assistance systems monitor the traffic and the surroundings of the new roadster. If necessary, they can intervene at lightning speed. As in the new generations of the Mercedes C-Class and S-Class, the driver is supported by numerous new or enhanced systems. This means that in everyday situations the driver is able to drive more safely as the result of being relieved during speed adaptation, distance control, steering and lane changes. When danger threatens, the assistance systems are able to respond to impending collisions as the situation demands. The functioning of the systems is made visible by a new display concept in the instrument cluster.

Many digital services from Mercedes me connect

The MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) infotainment system provides extensive intuitive operating options and many digital services from Mercedes me connect. Its strengths include the intuitive operating concept via touchscreen or touch control buttons on the steering wheel, smartphone integration of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, hands-free system via Bluetooth connection and digital radio (DAB and DAB+).