Mercedes-Benz – currently clocking up something of an industry record in terms of the number and frequency of its new model introductions – has launched yet another ‘latest version’, this time of a model widely and justly regarded as one of motoring’s most iconic creations – the new Mercedes-AMG SL.
Seen as something of a secure long-term investment for owners and collectors who maintain theirs in good-as-new condition, the Mercedes-Benz SL has endured as a symbol of elegance and style ever since it first arrived on the scene as the 300SL Roadster back in 1954 – a model inspired by a Grand Prix racing car built two years earlier.
The stuff of dreams amongst those who thrill at the thought of sports car motoring (and who relish the admiring glances of onlookers), the SL badge is one that, almost uniquely, sparks thoughts of sun-soaked days, motoring along our scenic Copper Coast and Wild Atlantic Way routes.
Reborn, according to Mercedes, as ‘an icon for the modern era’, the new SL emerges as the Mercedes-AMG SL offering what they call ‘performance luxury’ with a 2+2 seats configuration (the first since 1989) and a ‘revolutionary interior experience’ that combines analogue geometry with the digital world – a combination reflected in a fully digital instrument cluster integrated into a three-dimensional, high-tech visor.
Elsewhere within a package that Mercedes says ‘combines the highest levels of comfort and quality in its interior, with just the right amount of sportiness’ is an ‘aviation-inspired’ instrument panel, a centre console with adjustable touchscreen, sculptured seats with integrated headrests, heated ‘airscarf’ feature and a wide choice of sports or performance trim and leather coverings. From S-Class, a second-generation MBUX system is fitted supplemented with AMG-specific content.
It will be launched in several performance variants with two 4.0-litre V8 biturbo engines available initially with 476 or 585 hp, top speeds from 295 km/h and 0 to 100 km/h times of under four seconds in each case. A Formula 1 inspired E PERFORMANCE hybrid with an electric power unit at the rear axle will follow. Fully variable 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive is standard.
Described by Mercedes-Benz passenger car sales manager, Ciaran Allen as a ‘true legend for the future’, the new SL comes in a soft-top version which Allen says ‘can be opened and closed at speeds up to 60 kilometres per hour’.
Regarding price and availability in Ireland, Allen adds: “first models are expected to be available here March 2022 with prices to be announced at time of introduction”.
