Mercedes’ top of the line grand tourer is set to be the first SL created by the brand’s AMG performance division. The SL will be offered with four-wheel drive, stiffer body structure and an 800bhp hybrid powertrain.
The range starts with a 43-badged SL powered by a 3.0-litre straight-six petrol unit. The flagship SL 63 is powered by AMG’s twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8 with 604bhp.
Familiar features include Mercedes-AMG GT Panamericana radiator grille and trademark square exhausts which are already on the E 63 saloon and the GLS 63 SUV.
Mercedes new cabin, a“hyperanalogue” cockpit, takes inspiration from the original 300 SL Roadster from the 1950s.The new cabin has the same infotainment as the AMG GT, which consists of a 12.3” digital instrument panel ahead of the driver and an 11.9” infotainment system in the centre of the dashboard. To prevent glare, the instrument cluster has its own visor and the angle of the infotainment screen can be electrically adjusted. The car’s audio system comes from long-time partner Burmester.
The seats have headrests integrated into the backrests for a sleeker look. They will be finished in a range of touches including two-tone nappa leather, nappa leather with diamond stitching, or a combination of nappa and Dinamica fabric.
Saving a few kilos, the folding metal hardtop has been replaced by a new fabric roof. Mercedes says the car’s central skeleton will weigh just 270kg and the chassis will use a blend of aluminium, steel, magnesium and fibre composites in its construction to help keep weight down.
The new chassis has nothing carried over from any existing models. And the new SL’s body will be 50 per cent stiffer than the AMG GT Roadster for increased precision and handling.