Mercedes->ke187 has been hot to trot lately with an onslaught of different models just spilling out of the German manufacturer. The SLS AMG is fresh and so is the SLK Roadster. And, as a next logical step, the SL-Class has also entered a whole new generation. The new SL continues the tradition started by its predecessor, but offers considerably more comfort and athletic character, setting new standards in the luxury roadster class.

The US market will only get the SL550 version - a model powered by a 4663 cc V8 engine that delivers a total of 429 HP and 516 lb-ft of torque. The engine will be combined with ECO stop/start function as standard equipment and a 7-Speed Driver-Adaptive automatic transmission. The European market will benefit from that model, as well as an SL350 version that will use a V6 engine with an output of 306 HP.

UPDATE 04/17/2012: Mercedes USA has released a new walk around video of the SL-Class Roadster. Be sure to give it a watch because the SL’s product manager, Dave Larsen, will be the one taking you through everything you need to know about the new member of Mercedes' legendary SL line. Check out the video after the jump!

2013 Mercedes Benz SL-Class

Specifications
  • Make: Array
  • Model: 2013 Mercedes Benz SL-Class
  • Engine/Motor: V8
  • Horsepower: 529
  • Torque: 516
  • Transmission: seven-speed automatic transmission
  • [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array
Pros
Cons

Mercedes SL Walkaround with Dave Larsen

Exterior

The new SL-Class still has the traditional design features of its predecessor, but with added perspective and vision to update its look. It combines a long bonnet with a wide, powerful rear end giving the impression of raciness. And just like with the new SLK, the SL features powerfully sculpted and yet calm surfaces and elegant lines. The ventilation lamps have received chromed fins from the dynamic traditional Mercedes-Benz design heritage, while an upright classic sports car radiator grille clearly marks out the new SL.

The famous Mercedes star logo now extends into the center section with its organically flowing contours. The car's front is also dominated by dynamically slanting headlamps offered with standard Intelligent Light System (ILS).

Particular highlights of the bodyshell:

  • The Front Wall is at present the largest aluminum cast component made in large series for vehicle bodywork
  • Many sheet metal parts are designed in such a way that for the first time they can be made from 100 percent recycled aluminum, saving 80 percent of the energy used in their production.
  • The main floorpan is a 3-layer shaped panel made from thin, extrusion-moulded hollow sections, welded together by friction stir welding.
  • The longitudinal members in the vehicle front end are made using high-pressure hydroforming (IHU) technology, which enables the creation of highly complex and robust components, permitting optimum use of reduced installation spaces.
  • The door sills (longitudinal members) consist of 1.7-metre long, 7-chamber extrusion-moulded aluminum sections; these provide rigidity in the lateral sectors and safety in the event of a collision. Flexible chamber distribution makes possible a minimum component weight coupled with optimum characteristics.
  • The tunnel is made of aluminum sheet metal with a reinforcement of varying thickness (3 different thicknesses depending on sector, a so-called tailored welded blank TWB).
  • The rear sector floor is a MIG welded frame with a hollow chilled cast longitudinal member as its central element. This technique is employed in the SL for the very first time in automotive bodyshell construction.
  • The rear sector floor frame structure is closed by floor sheet metal panels and the boot tub made by vacuum die-casting.
  •     The spare wheel recess is made from recycled sheet metal.
  • The central member connects the front end with the rear sector floor. The mounting points for the drive shaft, the transmission cross beam, the transmission tunnel braces and the seat bolting points on the tunnel side are all integrated into a single element. The wall thicknesses and rib distribution are oriented bionically towards the requirements and loads.
  • Many other components were optimized bionically, i.e. based on examples from nature. These structures reduce the vehicle weight compared to a classic design even further.