The 10 Second Review
The new four-wheel-drive SL 55 AMG delivers an unexpectedly agile driving experience for a hefty, convertible car. Its top-up noise isolation is notably commendable. However, the interior, despite being extensively equipped, lacks a mature design. This model is crammed with features, possibly to a point of confusion or excess. The car felt difficult to handle, however that might be the reason adrenaline levels are high after a drive. While the new SL has its merits, it also has some room for improvement.
Pros
- Excellent engine
- Powerful acceleration
- Outstanding grip and stability
- Very luxurious interior
- Great noise isolation
Cons
- Not as precise as the competition
- Firm ride
- No realistic rear seat space
The In-Depth Review
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
Aside from the base SL43 model, which features a 375-horsepower turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four engine, the rest of the SL lineup is propelled by a twin-turbo 4.0-liter V-8 derived from the GT sports car. The SL55 boasts a robust 469 horsepower, A nine-speed automatic transmission is the sole option, with the SL55 coming standard with an all-wheel-drive system and four-wheel steering. With these top-tier powertrains, the reimagined SL-class competes with convertible models of the BMW 8-series and Lexus LC, both of which offer potent V-8 engines. It also takes on more performance-oriented rivals like the Porsche 911. In real-world driving, some may find the SL offers more selectable drive modes than necessary, which can suggest the car hasn’t entirely honed its focus. The acceleration is impressively immediate.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
The occupants in the SL are positioned deeply within the vehicle, where the windows’ base aligns around shoulder height. Most surfaces are covered in leather, accentuated by contrasting stitching, and stylish turbine-like air vents. The dashboard features screen-based instrumentation, while a large, vertically oriented central touchscreen manages most functions. However, we aren’t particularly fond of the heavy reliance on intricate touch controls, which are used even for adjusting audio volume and raising or lowering the convertible top. The seats come with heating, cooling, and massage features, alongside vents located at the base of the headrest (known as Mercedes’s Airscarf), providing warm air to the occupants’ necks during chilly weather. Although the petite rear seats with upright backrests are unsuitable for passengers, they serve as a practical spot for storing a briefcase or bag—especially considering the limited space in the trunk.
Infotainment and Connectivity
Every SL variant includes Mercedes’s most recent MBUX infotainment system, featuring the “Hey Mercedes” virtual assistant and a sizable 11.9-inch touchscreen that can be tailored for various viewing angles to suit the driver’s preference. Additionally, a standard feature is the 12.3-inch digital gauge display. Both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are available, and the navigation system offers augmented reality features. All SL models are equipped with a Burmester stereo system, while the SL63 provides an option for an enhanced surround-sound version.
Price from AED 818,900
“The New Mercedes SL55 is a whole new kind of SL.”
