The new mercedes SL: athlete, aesthete

The latest generation of the sports car legend brings us a roadster which is perfect in every respect. The completely redeveloped SL continues a tradition at Mercedes-Benz which began more than 60 years ago with the legendary 300 SL racing car. Since that time, the letters "SL" have been synonymous not only with "super light", but also with the perfect symbiosis of sportiness, style and comfort – and also with groundbreaking innovations. The new SL ties in with this concept seamlessly. For the first time it has been produced almost entirely from aluminium and therefore weighs up to 140 kilograms less than its predecessor. The lower weight takes the meaning of the famous letters "SL" quite literally, turning the SL into the ultimate agile athlete. Weight-optimised components are also used in the suspension, which as an option can also be combined with the more advanced active suspension system ABC (Active Body Control). Its active roll compensation is able to adjust the suspension within fractions of a second to suit the relevant driving situation. The new electromechanical Direct-Steer system, meanwhile, also guarantees greater spontaneity when cornering at speed. As the perfect companion to the sporty yet comfortably tuned suspension, it also helps to ensure good straight-line stability and a relaxed ride. To ensure that the driving pleasure never stops, the engineers at Mercedes-Benz developed new smooth-running BlueDIRECT engines. In addition, the environmentally-friendly ECO start/stop function is also fitted as standard to the SL 350 with V6 engine, as well as the SL 500. The latter's V8 biturbo drive unit produces 435 hp (320 kW) and an impressive 700 Nm of torque, accelerating it from zero to 100 km/h in 4.6 seconds. Another standard feature on both models is the 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission. 7G-Tronic Plus. Optimised for consumption as well as comfort, it is also available with optional shift paddles on the leather multifunction sports steering wheel for changing gear at the touch of a button. Comfort in the new SL does not therefore come at the expense of sportiness. A delight for all the senses. The SL sets new standards in its class in terms of safety too. With the anticipatory occupant protection system PRE-SAFE®, fitted as standard, and many other assistance systems, the Roadster meets S-Class-level safety standards. This is also reflected in the level of appointments. Making an appearance as a world's first is the car's surround sound system featuring Frontbass technology. Even when driving with the top down, it creates a concert hall ambience - with exemplary acoustics too. Unlimited driving pleasure, again even with the top down, also comes courtesy of MAGIC VISION CONTROL. This intelligent windscreen wiper system applies the washer fluid, via nozzles integrated into the windscreen wipers, precisely where it is required. But even in bad weather and with the top down, driving in the SL almost remains an open-air experience: the optional panoramic vario-roof with MAGIC SKY CONTROL guarantees a clear overhead view, yet at the same time can be darkened at the touch of a button should the sun get too hot. The interior of the SL exudes a pleasant wellness ambience throughout. Fully in line with the character of the Roadster, it combines uncomplicated sportiness with the stylish atmosphere of a luxury Gran Turismo model. Drivers can choose from a whole host of luxury materials to equip their cockpit precisely in accordance with their individual requirements. As a result, driving in the new SL becomes a feast for all of the senses. "There are around 900 million cars on this earth and thousands of models. But there are only a handful of automotive icons. Our SL is one of them – it has class, it has style, it is the embodiment of comfort and luxury. But it combines all of that with an unbelievably sporty and dynamic character. You would struggle to find a car that embodies Gottlieb Daimler's aspiration more perfectly than our new SL: the best or nothing." Dr. Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of the Board of Management of Daimler AG and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars. The data do not relate to a specific vehicle and are not part of the specification, but are merely for the purpose of comparing different vehicle types. The figures are provided in accordance with the German regulation "PKW-EnVKV" and apply to the German market only.