New this week: Mercedes AMG-SL It changes everything!

The history of Mercedes SL dates back to 1952, with the launch of the fantastic 300 SL, a coupe with gullwing doors, then a roadster. A unique design, strong mechanics, and impressive sporting results. From its first year in competition, the “W194” type (W198 for the road version) won the 24 Hours of Le Mans (with Hermann Lang and Fritz Riess) and the Carrera Panamericana (with Karl Kling and Hans Klenk). Designed for racing and wealthy gentlemen, this car took the name SL for “Sport Leicht”, in other words light sport. But these two letters which have become a great classic of the brand are today only marketing. In 2022, this classy convertible has chosen to return to a canvas top (after 20 years of a retractable hardtop), which allows it to save 21 kg. Its 63 AMG 4Matic + version, the only one available at launch, weighs 1 kg (970 kg driver included) on the scale. And there is nothing better to hope for in terms of weight, because the range extension provides for the arrival of a plug-in hybrid version, which will be even heavier.

Featuring a strong style, the 2022 SL retains only the 14-bar grille from the past, like the original 300 SL. But the comparison will stop there. However, even if it meets contemporary stylistic codes, the newcomer is elegant and particularly distinguished. Whether you like the current style or not, you can only praise the balance of its lines and its high-end character.

AMG at the helm, 4Matic for the first time

Don't wait for the future AMG version, it's already here. As with the SLS and the AMG GT, the German manufacturer has entrusted the design of its new model to its sports department. Here, the Mercedes subsidiary, located in Affalterbach (Germany), started from scratch. No body components come from the previous SL or any other model. The chassis is also unique. Made up of a lightweight composite aluminum structure, it guarantees better rigidity and more dynamism. Mercedes announces torsional resistance improved by 18% compared to the old SL (the marketing of which was stopped in 2019), and by 50% compared to the AMG GT Roadster. Please note that the latter will not be replaced and will disappear from the catalog.

Under the hood, however, everything is already known. We find the four-liter V8 biturbo from the AMG GT R, attached to an automatic gearbox (but without converter) with nine speeds. This engine will be offered with two power levels, 476 and 585 hp. However, the French market will only sell the most efficient version. Mercedes must have said to itself that with a penalty of 40 euros (for vehicles emitting at least 000 g of CO₂ per km), it was better to position yourself immediately at the highest point in the range... With such an engine, the SL 63 AMG 4Matic + announces a 0 to 100 km/h in just 3″6, and a maximum speed of 315 km/h.

On the other hand, if after 70 years of career this large convertible had never benefited from all-wheel drive, its 4Matic chassis becomes the only proposition here. Another new feature, the rear axle will be directional, up to 2,5° and 100 km/h. Enough to provide maneuverability at low speed and stability when the pace accelerates, especially since the 800 Nm of torque will be distributed variably between the two axles. When driving on a circuit, the driver will also be helped from 80 km/h by an active aerodynamic part, via a rear wing which can adopt five positions depending on speed, body movements (longitudinal and lateral) and of the steering speed. As an option, it will also be possible to choose a carbon element (2 kg) hidden in the base, in front of the engine. It will respond to different driving modes, and can stretch downward by up to 40 millimeters from 80 km/h. The objective is to create a Venturi effect (suction phenomenon increasing the circulation of fluids), which sticks the front axle to the road and improves handling. In any case, taking into account its weight and the target clientele, this Mercedes will remain above all a pure GT, even with 402 mm carbon-ceramic brakes (optional).

High tech interior, return to four seats

The interior is of course dressed to the nines, with references to aviation, like the first generations of SL. Also, the magnificent steering wheel is innovative with numerous control buttons on its four spokes and inside the rim. However, we are starting to reach the limits of the genre... The vents, which manufacturers tend to ignore stylistically, are prominent here, with fins reminiscent of airplane reactors. On board, everything is digital (12,3-inch counter, classic dimensions), and the MBUX infotainment system is taken to its peak. Delivered as standard in its most advanced version (second generation appeared in the new S-Class), it plays the chameleon by offering graphics that adapt to each of the six driving modes, and even two dedicated AMG Performance or AMG Track menus. Pace. The large central screen, 11,2 inches, is tiltable, in order to effectively combat reflections when driving with the top open.

The basic upholstery already includes the Airscarf system (appeared several years ago on an older generation of SLK), which diffuses hot air into the neck. Note that the AMG Performance seats (more enveloping, in carbon, thin backrests) are available as an option. Another new feature: while for two generations the SL had become a two-seater car, it will be able to carry two children in the back, provided that they are no more than 15 meters tall. On the other hand, if the fact of returning to a canvas convertible top (which opens in 60 seconds up to 240 km/h) could suggest that the trunk volume is increasing, this is not the case. Even though the car is eight centimeters longer compared to the old model, there is less space in the cargo hold. The new SL only offers 213 liters of cargo volume, and 365 liters once the top is open, compared to 504 to XNUMX liters previously. You will therefore have to choose between luggage and children…

Mercedes has not announced anything on the price side, but the base should be around 190 euros, to which a 000 euro penalty will have to be added. The plug-in hybrid version, which will arrive at the end of 40, should be positioned in the same price ranges, but will avoid the cleaver penalty. As for the pleasure of driving an electrified SL… before really asking the question, you will already have to get used to the idea.

To remember

The Mercedes SL will go on sale in spring 2022; it adopts a canvas soft top rather than a retractable hard top. For the first time, it has four-wheel drive and rear-wheel steering. It is a four-seater, provided that the rear passengers do not exceed 1,50 m. Estimated base price: 190 euros; plug-in hybrid version at the end of 000.