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(Technical details are on the following pages at the end of the post to find. There is a picture gallery On page 15) The new Mercedes-AMG SL, the new edition of an icon, returns to its roots with a classic soft top and a sporty character. At the same time, as a 2 + 2-seater, the luxurious roadster is particularly suitable for everyday use and brings its performance to the road with all-wheel drive for the first time. High-tech components such as the AMG ACTIVE RIDE CONTROL suspension with active roll stabilization, rear-axle steering, the optionally available AMG ceramic high-performance composite brake system or the standard DIGITAL LIGHT with projection function sharpen the sporty profile. In combination with the AMG 4,0-liter V8 biturbo engine, this results in a driving experience at the highest level. As a consistent performance luxury model, Mercedes-AMG developed the SL completely independently in Affalterbach. The market launch begins with two models with an AMG V8 engine.
2022 Mercedes-AMG SL (R 232)
Almost 70 years ago, a sports car started in Stuttgart that immediately became a legend. The vision of expanding the potential of the Mercedes-Benz brand through success in motorsport resulted in the first SL - a road-going racing sports car. Shortly after its debut in 1952, the 300 SL (internal designation W 194) garnered numerous successes on the world's racetracks. In the first year he achieved a spectacular double victory in the legendary Le Mans 24-hour race and even took the first four places in the Nürburgring Grand Anniversary Prize for sports cars. Thanks to its success, the SL quickly became a legend.
The successful racing car was followed in 1954 by the 300 SL series sports car (W 198), known as the “gullwing” because of its unusual doors. In 1999 a jury made up of specialist journalists voted it “Sports Car of the Century”. Other highlights of the model's history include the “Pagoda” (W 113, 1963-1971), the evergreen R 18 (107-1971), which was built for 1989 years, or its successor R 129, which is considered an automobile sculpture due to its distinctive wedge shape. The abbreviation “SL” still stands for one of the few real automobile icons in the world. In the decades of development from a thoroughbred racing car to an open luxury sports car, the new Mercedes-AMG SL is now setting another milestone. It combines the sportiness of the original SL with the unique luxury and technological excellence of modern Mercedes models.
The SL: an icon for almost 70 years!
“The SL is an icon: the striking Mercedes sports car has been delighting customers of every generation around the world for almost 70 years. With the rebirth of the Mercedes-AMG roadster, the new SL remains the symbol of this timeless fascination more than ever, ”says Britta Seeger, Member of the Board of Management of Daimler AG and Mercedes-Benz AG, responsible for Mercedes-Benz Cars Sales.
“The new SL combines the sporty genes of the original SL with the typical AMG driving performance. At the same time, it offers luxury and comfort at the absolute top level. This combination is unique in the sports car segment and is also reflected in the interior - this is where maximum comfort and quality meet the right dose of sportiness. The high-quality combination of analogue world and state-of-the-art digital equipment makes it clear that the new SL is the rebirth of an icon for the modern age, ”says Philipp Schiemer, CEO of Mercedes-AMG GmbH.
“With the new SL, we have repositioned the iconic SL design. The expressively modeled exterior conveys a light and puristic impression and brings sensual beauty and extravagant design in perfect harmony, ”says Gorden Wagener, Chief Design Officer Daimler Group.
“We at Mercedes-AMG consider it a great honor that we were allowed to develop the new edition of this iconic sports car. When we received the order for the overall development of the new SL, we were able to start from scratch without building on an existing structure. We are proud of the result, it once again proves the high level of development expertise in Affalterbach. The new 2 + 2 concept combines agile driving dynamics with a high level of comfort and unrestricted suitability for everyday use, ”says Jochen Hermann, Chief Technical Officer of Mercedes-AMG GmbH.
With its exciting design, state-of-the-art technology and outstanding driving characteristics, the new Mercedes-AMG SL sets standards in the luxury sports car segment. The exterior design fascinates with a perfect triad: It combines the modern Mercedes-Benz design philosophy of sensual clarity with typical AMG sportiness and characteristic details. The two power domes on the bonnet are just one of many reminiscences of the first SL generation. The interplay of light and shadow makes the overall view optically easy. It is clear at first glance that the new SL has returned to its sporty roots.
Exterior design: balanced design with sporty genes
Characteristic features of the body design are the large wheelbase, the short overhangs, the long bonnet, the passenger compartment set backwards with a steeply sloping windshield and the powerful rear. This results in the typical SL proportions. They give the roadster its powerful, dynamic appearance - together with the voluminously modeled wheel arches and the large light alloy wheels that are flush with the outer skin.
When closed, the seamlessly integrated soft top underlines the puristic, sporty impression. The AMG-specific radiator trim emphasizes the width of the front and, with its 14 vertical slats, cites the ancestor of all SL models, the legendary 300 SL racing car from 1952. Other characteristic design elements are the flat, sharp-cut DIGITAL LIGHT LED headlights and the extremely flat headlights LED rear lights.
Interior design: Performance Luxury with a “hyper-analog” cockpit
The interior of the new Mercedes-AMG SL transforms the tradition of the first 300 SL roadster into modern times. The new edition perfectly harmonizes sporting virtues and luxury. Noble materials and meticulous workmanship underline the demand for the highest level of comfort. The cockpit design right through to the adjustable central display in the center console is focused on the driver. At the same time, the completely new interior dimension concept with 2 + 2 seats offers more space and functionality than before. The rear seats increase the suitability for everyday use and offer space for people up to 1,50 meters tall.
The minimalist interior of the 300 SL Roadster, equipped with high-quality materials, inspired the designers when designing the interior of the new model: The result is an exciting combination of analog geometry and the digital world - called "hyper-analog". This is exemplified by the fully digital instrument cluster, which is integrated into a three-dimensional visor. With the standard MBUX infotainment system, there are several specific display styles and different modes to choose from.
One of the many highlights in the interior of the new SL is the sculptural seat design of the standard, electrically adjustable AMG sports seats. The headrests are integrated into the backrest and underline the sporty character. The AIRSCARF is standard on board: warm air flows into the passenger compartment from air outlets in the headrests and wraps around the neck and neck of the driver and front passenger like a scarf. Perfect ergonomics and various progressive seam and filing patterns complete the symbiosis of high-tech, performance and luxury. AMG Performance seats are optionally available.
The latest generation MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) is intuitive to use and capable of learning. It offers numerous functional contents and the operating structure of the second generation MBUX system, which made its debut in the new Mercedes-Benz S-Class. In the SL, there is extensive AMG-specific content in five display styles. Exclusive menu items such as “AMG Performance” or “AMG TRACK PACE” also underline the sporty character.
Body-in-white: new roadster architecture with a composite aluminum structure
The 2021 SL is based on a completely new, 2 + 2-seater vehicle architecture developed by Mercedes-AMG. The chassis, constructed in a light composite aluminum structure, consists of an aluminum space frame with a self-supporting structure. The construction guarantees maximum rigidity and thus the perfect basis for precise driving dynamics, high comfort, optimal packaging and sporty body proportions. As with the first SL in 1952, the new bodyshell was literally created on a blank sheet of paper: not a single component comes from the predecessor SL or any other model such as the AMG GT Roadster.
The aim of the bodyshell architecture is to present the typical AMG driving performance with a focus on lateral and longitudinal dynamics and at the same time to meet the high standards of comfort and safety. With the new SL, the intelligent mix of materials enables the highest possible rigidity with low weight. Optimized material cross-sections and sophisticated component shapes create space for the comprehensive comfort and safety equipment as well as the fabric hood. The materials used include aluminum, magnesium, fiber composites and steel, from which the windshield frame, for example, is made. This serves, in conjunction with the bar system behind the rear seats, which can be extended at lightning speed if necessary, as rollover protection.
Compared to the previous series, the torsional rigidity of the bodyshell structure has increased by 18 percent. The lateral stiffness is 50 percent higher than the already excellent value of the AMG GT Roadster. The longitudinal stiffness is 40 percent higher. The weight of the pure shell is around 270 kilograms. Together with the low center of gravity, the targeted lightweight construction ensures optimum driving dynamics.
Active aerodynamics: for perfect balance and high efficiency
A key development focus of the new SL was high aero efficiency, specifically: a perfectly balanced ratio between low air resistance and reduced lift. Here the luxurious roadster benefits from the extensive motorsport expertise of Mercedes-AMG and extensive active aerodynamic elements at the front and rear. All flow-optimizing elements are seamlessly integrated into the exterior design. Further detailed measures reduce the drag coefficient down to cw 0,31 - a very good value for open sports cars.
The aerodynamics of the SL meet the complex requirements for driving stability, air resistance, cooling and wind noise. Regardless of whether the convertible top is open or closed, the character of the vehicle and its driving characteristics remain unchanged. The balanced aerobalance can be used to defuse critical driving situations, such as sudden evasive maneuvers at high speed.
AIRPANEL air control system: for the first time in two parts
A technical highlight in Aero development: the two-part, active air control system AIRPANEL. The first part operates with vertical slats that are hidden behind the lower air intake in the front apron. The second part is located behind the upper air inlet and has horizontal fins. Usually all the slats are closed. This position reduces the air resistance and enables the air to be directed specifically towards the underbody. This further reduces the front lift. Only when certain temperatures have been reached on predefined components and the cooling air requirement is particularly high do the fins open (the second system only from 180 km / h) and allow maximum cooling air to flow to the heat exchangers.
Another active component is the extendable rear spoiler, which is seamlessly integrated into the trunk lid. It changes its position depending on the driving situation. The control software takes numerous parameters into account: It includes the driving speed, the longitudinal and lateral acceleration and the steering speed in the calculation. From 80 km / h, the spoiler adopts five different angular positions, either to optimize driving stability or to reduce air resistance.
The optional active aerodynamic element, which is hidden in the underbody in front of the engine, also contributes to improved driving behavior. This carbon profile, which weighs around two kilograms, reacts to the setting of the AMG drive programs and automatically extends downwards by around 80 millimeters at a speed of 40 km / h. This creates the so-called Venturi effect, which also sucks the car onto the road surface and reduces the lift on the front axle. The driver feels this positively in the steering: the SL can be steered even more precisely in curves and drives with even more stability. A range of aerodynamically optimized light alloy wheels with a diameter of 19, 20 or 21 inches are available for the SL, which reduce air resistance with less turbulence. 20-inch wheels with plastic aero rings, which also save weight, are particularly sophisticated.
The hood: less weight and a lower center of gravity
The sportier positioning of the new SL also suggested the decision to use an electric soft top instead of the previous metal vario roof. The 21 kilogram lower weight and the resulting lower center of gravity have a positive effect on driving dynamics and handling. The space-saving and weight-saving Z-fold means that there is no need for a conventional convertible top compartment lid. The open convertible top closes flush in its end position through the front roof cap. At the same time, the developers were faced with the task of maintaining the high level of suitability for everyday use and exemplary noise comfort.
The three-layer design consists of a tightly stretched outer shell, a precisely processed inner liner and the acoustic mat made of high-quality 450 g / m² material that is incorporated in between. Opening and closing only takes around 15 seconds and is possible up to a speed of 60 km / h. The convertible top is operated using the switch bar in the center console or the multimedia touchscreen, on which an animation shows the progress of the process.
Engine, transmission and all-wheel drive: great variety and more choice than ever before
At the time of its market launch, the new SL will be launched with two output levels of the AMG 4,0-liter V8 biturbo engine. The engines are assembled entirely by hand according to the “One Man, One Engine” principle at the company's location in Affalterbach. In the top model SL 63 4MATIC + (combined fuel consumption 12,7-11,8 l / 100 km, CO2Emissions combined 288-268 g / km)[1] the engine has an output of 430 kW (585 hp) and provides a maximum torque of 800 Nm over a wide speed range from 2.500 to 4.500 rpm. Accelerating from 0 to 100 km / h only takes 3,6 seconds and the top speed is 315 km / h. In the SL 55 4MATIC + (combined fuel consumption 12,7-11,8 l / 100 km, CO2Emissions combined
288-268 g / km) the V8 engine develops 350 kW (476 hp) and 700 Nm maximum torque. The sprint from standstill to 100 km / h takes 3,9 seconds, the top speed is reached at 295 km / h.
For use in the SL, the engine received a new oil pan, repositioned charge air coolers and active crankcase ventilation. The inlet and outlet channels have been optimized for an even more effective gas exchange and the exhaust gas routing for the catalytic converter box and Otto particle filter has been enlarged. The developers achieved the extra power of the SL 63 4MATIC + primarily through higher boost pressure and greater air throughput as well as modified engine software. All in all, the eight-cylinder impresses with its extraordinary power delivery with powerful thrust in all speed ranges, combined with the highest possible efficiency for low consumption and emissions.
Performance hybrid in development
At a later date, we will also be offering the SL with a powerful performance hybrid drive. The AMG E PERFORMANCE drive strategy aims to offer an electrified drive train that increases driving dynamics but is also highly efficient at the same time.
Wet starting clutch for the gearbox
The AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 9G transmission combines an emotional shift experience with extremely short shift times and is specially tailored to the requirements of the new SL. A wet starting clutch replaces the torque converter. It reduces weight and, thanks to its lower mass inertia, optimizes the response to accelerator pedal commands, especially when accelerating and when changing loads.
More traction and driving stability: fully variable AMG Performance 4MATIC + all-wheel drive
For the first time in its almost 70-year history, the SL is available with one drive on all four wheels. The two V8 models are equipped with AMG Performance 4MATIC + all-wheel technology as standard. The intelligent system combines the advantages of various drive concepts: The fully variable torque distribution on the front and rear axles guarantees optimal traction at the physical limit as well as high driving stability and driving safety under all conditions.
Chassis and brakes: multi-link front axle, active roll stabilization and optimal deceleration
The SL 55 4MATIC + is equipped as standard with a newly developed AMG RIDE CONTROL steel spring chassis with particularly powerful aluminum shock absorbers and lightweight coil springs. For the first time, a series-production vehicle from Mercedes-AMG has a multi-link front axle with five links that are arranged completely within the rim. This significantly improves the kinematics. A 5-link space structure also guides the wheels on the rear axle.
The innovative AMG ACTIVE RIDE CONTROL suspension with active, hydraulic roll stabilization celebrates its premiere in the SL 63 4MATIC +. Biggest innovation: Active hydraulic elements replace the conventional mechanical anti-roll bars and compensate for rolling movements of the new SL in fractions of a second. The system enables optimal steering and load change behavior with typical AMG characteristics of driving behavior in terms of dynamics, precision and feedback for the driver. At the same time, it increases driving comfort when driving straight ahead and when driving over bumps.
The newly developed AMG high-performance composite brake system guarantees excellent deceleration values and precise control. It impresses with short braking distances, sensitive responsiveness and high stability - even under extreme loads. The new composite brake discs are lighter than before and take up less space, which is used for even better brake cooling. The directional perforation is also new: In addition to the additional weight savings and better heat dissipation, this solution scores with faster response in wet conditions and better pad cleaning after braking.
Active rear axle steering: combines agility and stability
For the first time in its long history, the SL is equipped with active rear-axle steering (HAL) as standard. Depending on the speed, the rear wheels steer either in the opposite direction (up to 100 km / h) or in the same direction (faster than 100 km / h) than the front wheels. The system thus enables both agile and stable driving behavior - properties that stand in opposition to one another without rear-axle steering. Further advantages are the easier vehicle controllability in the border area as well as less steering effort, because the translation of the front wheel steering is more direct.
Six drive programs and AMG DYNAMICS: from comfortable to dynamic
The six AMG DYNAMIC SELECT drive programs "Smoothness", "Comfort", "Sport", "Sport +", "Individual" and "RACE" (standard on the SL 63 4MATIC +, included in the optional AMG DYNAMIC PLUS package for the SL 55 4MATIC +) a wide range of vehicle characteristics from comfortable to dynamic. The individual driving programs offer an individual driving experience, precisely tailored to different driving conditions. As a feature of the AMG DYNAMIC SELECT drive programs, the SL models also have AMG DYNAMICS. This integrated driving dynamics control extends the stabilizing functions of ESP® to include agile interventions in the all-wheel drive control, the steering characteristic and in ESP® additional functions. During dynamic cornering, for example, a short brake intervention on the inside rear wheel causes a defined yaw moment around the vertical axis for spontaneous and precise steering. The spectrum ranges from extremely stable to highly dynamic.
SL equipment range: great variety for an individual appearance
The equipment details and the numerous options offer a wide range of customization options for a wide variety of customer requirements - from sporty and dynamic to luxurious and elegant. This includes twelve paint colors including the two exclusive SL tones Hyper Blue Metallic and MANUFAKTUR Monza Gray magno, three roof color variants and numerous new wheel designs. There are three exterior design packages to choose from for further sharpening the look in the direction of elegance or dynamism. The SL 55 4MATIC + rolls as standard on 19-inch AMG multi-spoke light-alloy wheels, optionally in silver or matt black. The SL 63 4MATIC + rests on 20-inch AMG 5-twin-spoke light-alloy wheels. The range of wheels includes a total of nine different variants. Including two aerodynamically optimized 20-inch options in a 5-twin-spoke or multi-spoke design. The range is rounded off with 21-inch AMG light-alloy wheels in a 10-spoke design and 21-inch AMG forged wheels in a 5-twin-spoke design, both in two color variants.
Driver assistance systems and MBUX: intelligent helpers in the background
With the help of numerous sensors, cameras and radar, the driver assistance systems monitor the traffic and the surroundings of the new roadster. If necessary, the intelligent helpers can intervene at lightning speed. As in the current generations of the Mercedes C- and S-Class, the driver is supported by numerous new or expanded systems - in everyday situations, for example, by reducing the workload when adapting speed, regulating distance, steering and changing lanes. In the event of danger, the systems help him to react appropriately to an impending collision. The functionality of the systems is visualized by a new display concept in the instrument cluster.
The new assistance display in the instrument cluster presents the functionality of the driver assistance systems in a comprehensible and transparent way in a full-screen view. The driver recognizes his car, lanes, lane markings and other road users such as cars, trucks and two-wheelers in a spatially abstracted manner. The system status and functionality of the assistants are visualized on the basis of this representation of the environment. The new animated assistance display is based on a 3-D scene generated in real time. This high-quality and dynamic display makes the functionality of the driver assistance systems transparent in an augmented reality driving experience.
Numerous connectivity services available
The infotainment system MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) enables extensive operating options and many digital services from Mercedes me connect. The strengths include the intuitive operating concept via touchscreen or touch control buttons on the steering wheel, the smartphone integration of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, the hands-free system via Bluetooth connection and digital radio (DAB and DAB +). In connection with MBUX, customers already have access to connectivity services such as Live Traffic Information. With Mercedes me connect, the new SL becomes more intelligent overall: additional functions can be used before and after the journey or while out and about. All you have to do is link the roadster to a Mercedes me account in the Mercedes me portal and accept the terms of use. Thanks to navigation with live traffic information and car-to-x communication, the customer drives with real-time traffic data. In this way, traffic jams can be avoided efficiently and valuable time can be saved. Networked vehicles use car-to-x communication to exchange information about traffic events.
