Overview
With a legacy that stretches back all the way to the original 300SL Gullwing, the 2022 Mercedes-AMG SL-class is an automotive icon. Recent examples haven’t been as impressive as expected and a host of newer two-door, four-seat grand touring convertibles have rendered it obsolete, but the next generation SL is taking a sportier tack and will be offered only with an AMG badge. The entry-level SL55 is powered by a 469-hp twin-turbo V-8 while the racier SL63 gets a 577-hp version of that same motor. All-wheel drive and four-wheel steering are both standard and are intended to improve both handling and performance. Although it’s being reimagined as a more focused sports car, the new SL also sports a luxurious and tech-heavy cabin. And in a nod to previous generations, the new SL features folding fabric roof in place of the outgoing models’ power-folding hardtop, thereby retaining the its open-air persona while also saving weight.
What’s New for 2022?
Mercedes-AMG’s iconic SL-class is all new for 2022, following a short hiatus and it should be on sale in time for convertible season.
Pricing and Which One to Buy
Mercedes-AMG hasn’t released a detailed list of the new SL’s standard and optional features, but we’d still go with the more expensive SL63 to unlock the twin-turbo V-8’s maximum power figure.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
Both SL models are powered by a twin-turbo 4.0-liter V-8 borrowed from the GT sports car. In the SL55 the engine makes a stout 469 horsepower but upgrading to the SL63 boosts that figure to a thundering 577 ponies. A nine-speed automatic is the only transmission, and an all-wheel drive system and four-wheel steering are standard on all SL models. Such powertrains will allow the revived SL-class to take on convertible versions of the BMW 8-series and the Lexus LC—both of which are offered with powerful V-8 engines—as well as more sporting rivals, such as the Porsche 911. During our initial test drive, we found the SL to be just off from its new, sportier mission. The car offers several adjustable drive modes, which makes it hard to dial in just the right amount of agility and comfort, which gives the impression that it’s not quite focused enough on one or the other. Acceleration is prompt, especially with the more powerful version of the V-8 on board and we estimate that the SL63 will reach 60 mph in just 3.1 seconds.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
Neither Mercedes nor the EPA has offered any insight into the 2022 SL-class’s fuel-economy estimates yet, but we expect that information to be available closer to the car’s on-sale date. Both V-8–powered versions of the 8-series and the LC are rated at 25 mpg highway, which is a good target for the new SL. When we get a chance to put the new SL-class through our 75-mph highway fuel-economy test, which is part of our extensive testing regimen, we can evaluate its real-world mpg. For more information about the SL’s fuel economy, visit the EPA’s website.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
The SL-class remains solely a two-door convertible. But rather than last generation’s complicated folding hardtop, a fabric roof has been used on the new model to save weight and maximize cargo space. Still, don’t expect an expansive trunk. A pair of small rear seats provides a place to park an occasional passenger, but that area is better suited to cargo than people. The interior is plenty luxurious and Mercedes’ novel Airscarf feature, which gently blows warm air on the driver and front passenger’s neck during cold weather drives, is standard.
Infotainment and Connectivity
All SL models come with Mercedes’s new MBUX infotainment system, complete with the system’s “Hey Mercedes” virtual assistant, and a large 11.9-inch touchscreen infotainment display that can be adjusted for viewing angle depending on a driver’s preference. A 12.3-inch digital gauge display is also standard. Navigation and both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are included as well. All SLs come with a Burmester stereo system, but the SL63 can be optioned with an upgraded surround-sound version.
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
A host of driver-assistance features will be offered, but it’s unclear which will be standard and which will be optional. For more information about the SL’s crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. Key safety features are likely to include:
- Standard automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection
- Standard lane-departure warning with lane-keeping assist
- Available adaptive cruise control with semi-autonomous driving mode
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
Mercedes-AMG’s standard warranty package is the least special thing about its cars and covers a basic four year/50,000 mile period with no frills or extras. Both the 8-series and the LC offer significant complimentary scheduled maintenance programs, which may make those cars more attractive to those who seek to lease.
- Limited warranty covers four years or 50,000 miles
- Powertrain warranty covers four years or 50,000 miles
- No complimentary scheduled maintenance
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