The one thing that can certainly be said about the German manufacturer Mercedes Benz is that they never produce a dull sports car. The latest version of the legend that is the AMG SL is one such car, featuring a classic soft top and typically sporty character. It’s a 2+2 seater that is well suited for everyday use. Options include, for the first time, all-wheel drive for even greater on-road security.
High-technology is to the fore with components such as AMG’s ‘Active Ride Control’ suspension, featuring active anti-roll stabilisation, rear-axle steering and an optionally available ceramic high-performance composite brake system. Power comes from an AMG 4.0 litre V8 bi-turbo engine driving through a choice of gearboxes, the nine-speed automatic being a favourite choice. The SL has gone back to its sporting roots.
On The Outside
With a long wheelbase, short overhangs, long bonnet and the passenger compartment set back with a strongly raked windscreen, the AMG-SL follows traditional sports car design. voluminous wheel arches and large flush-fitting alloy give this roadster a powerful, dynamic appearance, remaining striking even with the integrated soft top raised.
The radiator grille is AMG-specific, emphasising the width of the front and other distinctive design elements include the slim, sharply outlined ‘digital light LED’ headlamps and the equally extremely slim LED rear lamps.
On The Inside
The interior of this latest model brings the roadster into the modern era. Offering a high level of comfort, the cockpit design, right down to the adjustable central display in the centre console, is focused on the driver and is typically Mercedes. At the same time, with 2+2 seats, there’s more room and functionality than ever before. The interior is best described as minimalist, combining as it does, analogue geometry with the digital world. This is exemplified by the fully digital instrument cluster, which is integrated into a three-dimensional visor-like design. The standard and very latest MBUX infotainment system offers via the central screen a choice of several specific display styles and different modes. Info-tech is intuitive to operate and, say the company, capable of learning. Naturally, Apple Car plays features among the many controls.
One of many highlights in the interior of the new SL is the sculptural seat design of the standard-fit, electrically adjustable AMG sports seats. The head restraints are integrated into the backrest and emphasise once again that sporty character. AIRSCARF is on board as standard: This system allows warm air to flow into the passenger compartment from air outlets in the head restraints which ‘wraps around’ the head and neck area of the driver and front passenger like a scarf; great on a chilly day. Very luxurious. AMG Performance seats are available as an option.
On The Road
The AMG-SL is fabulous to drive with the fortunate driver benefiting from a wide range of electronic steering wheel and seat adjustment. Interestingly, rather than sitting in a low-slung manner, the driving position is more upright, aiding visibility. Parking sensors are fitted to aid manoeuvring when positioning that long bonnet.
As standard, this fine sports car benefits from adaptive dampers that can be set in two modes: Comfort mode, for a cosseting ride, and Sport, which tightens things up a treat while still maintaining the comfort quotient. Changing the suspension modes brings with it changes to the steering weight and engine and gearbox response, although these are all good whichever setting is selected.
The Mercedes Benz AMG SL is agile and handles really well even when pushed. That said, it is probably at its best when driven smoothly as a long-distance sports cruiser and there’s even room for children. There’s more about this great, well-established sports car from us here at MHH International. Find out how to import this car from the UK to Kenya, New Zealand and other global destinations.
