Vehicle Overview
The SL-Class retractable-hardtop roadster competes in the upper-crust sport-luxury market with the likes of the BMW 650i and Jaguar XK convertibles. It seats two people and is offered in V-8-powered SL550 and SL63 AMG forms.
New for 2012
The SL65 AMG has been discontinued, but there are no significant changes to the remaining models.
Exterior
The front is characterized by angular headlights that look a bit sinister, a grille bisected by a single, bold cross-member and a large Mercedes star logo. The hood is domed and creased to carry the line from those shapes. An optional Intelligent Light System for the headlamps has five modes for different driving situations. In addition to the more common active (swiveling) and cornering light modes are Country mode, Motorway mode and enhanced fog lamps. Exterior features include:
- Power retractable hardtop
- Standard 18-inch alloy wheels on SL550
- Standard 19-inch alloy wheels on SL63 AMG
- Standard bi-xenon headlights
- Optional Intelligent Light System
Interior
The SL has leather-trimmed seats for two and a long list of comfort and convenience features to justify its lofty price, including the Comand multimedia system. Comand has an optional Universal Consumer Interface — a port that accepts portable music players and flash memory and controls them through the stereo, complete with on-screen menus. Also included are Bluetooth phone functionality and the option of watching DVDs on the screen (when the car is parked).
An interesting option is Airscarf — two small fans incorporated into each head restraint that blow warm air at the occupant’s neck. Mercedes says the objective is to “extend the open-air driving season.” Interior features include:
- mbrace telematics system
- Voice-activated Comand system with 8-inch dash screen
- Beverage cooler in glove box
- 10-speaker Harman Kardon stereo
Under the Hood
The SL550 has a 382-horsepower, 5.5-liter V-8. The SL63 AMG’s 6.2-liter V-8 makes 518 hp. All versions are rear-wheel drive. Mechanical features include:
- Seven-speed automatic transmission
- Standard active suspension system (Active Body Control)
- Optional Direct Steer system
Safety
Standard safety features include:
- All-disc antilock brakes
- Electronic stability system
- Side-impact airbags
- Driver’s knee airbag
- Pop-up roll bar
- Active head restraints
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