Even though much of the world's auto industry is rushing to make electrics, some are still making sure there's a memorable grand touring car, and that's Mercedes introducing an all new two-door SL.
The first SLs go back to 1952 when they had super lightweight sports cars that gave the model its name: SL. The 2022 AMG Roadster boasts an all-new chassis under the car too. Meticulously developed by Mercedes-AMG, it consists of an aluminum space frame. The goal was high comfort, precise driving dynamics, optimal packaging and sporty body proportions.
Two things separate it from other SLs: (1) It is a 2+2 for the first time since 1989; and (2) It features a retro simple cloth convertible top rather than a complicated metal folding top common in recent years. Customers can choose from single or two-tone Nappa leather, elegant Nappa style leather with diamond stitching, or the sporty combination of Nappa leather and Dinamica Race microfiber with yellow or red topstitching.
Inside, the 11.9-inch multimedia touchscreen dominates the lower section of the instrument panel. It's designed to be electrically adjustable to reduce glare when driving with the top down. Plus, it has four-wheel steering and all-wheel drive as standard, both firsts for the SL.
AMG is the tuning company within Mercedes that makes the high-performance model, which also means it's quick! Oh, and if you must know, the top can retract in 15 seconds flat while driving!
The base price will be roughly $115,000 with top-of-the-line models close to $160,000.
Is it fast? Jawohl! The slower SL55 cranks out 469 hp and does 60 mph in 3.8 seconds, while the more powerful version of the same engine in the SL63 is good for 577 hp and a 0 to 60 time under 3.5 seconds. Both versions are automatics, using a 9-speed multi-clutch transmission.
Arriving at dealers early this year!
Wallace Wyss is a fine artist specializing in automotive art. For a list available oils, inquire at malibucarart@gmail.com.