Three models return: the V-8-powered SL550, the performance-oriented SL63 AMG with a twin-turbocharged V-8 and the SL65 AMG with a twin-turbo V-12.
Mercedes is offering 100 SL550 Night Edition models with matte-finish black paint; 19-inch AMG wheels with a two-tone, high-gloss finish; silver front brake calipers; and interior accents.
The 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL is on the warning track: with a new roadster on the way and an SLS AMG gullwing already in the lineup, there's little changed to the two-seat roadster for the new model year.
The SL550 bridges the gap from Jaguar XK territory into Ferrari California range; the SL63 AMG is the pinnacle of the SL's ability, faster than an Aston Martin Vantage and not far off the mark set by the Porsche 911. Feel free to spend up to $200,000 on an SL65 AMG; our favorite is the relative bargain SL63 AMG, for its time-warping acceleration and its multi-contour seats and an amazingly tractable ride.
Recently redesigned, the SL-Class remains the most premium Mercedes roadster.
The SL550's engine remains unchanged, with a 5.5-liter V8 delivering 382 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 391 pound-feet of torque between 2,800 and 4,800 rpm. Although, the latest model enjoys a slight bump in fuel economy to 14 city, 22 highway.
The car's steering system has been improved to feature a variable rack ratio, which adjusts in line with the steering angle, increasing sharply as soon as this reaches five degrees. Now available is the Intelligent Light System, featuring five distinct functions, which are automatically selected. They are: country mode, motorway mode, enhanced fog lamps, cornering light function and active light function.
When the active light function is activated, the headlamps pivot to the side in line with the steering angle when the driver enters a bend, allowing them to see around 80 feet further into a long bend. The cornering light function is activated automatically at speeds below 44 mph.
Interior
The interior has been improved with better seats, a new-look three-spoke leather steering wheel, and a completely restyled instrument cluster.
Features
Mercedes has improved its COMAND infotainment system, which provides access to information, entertainment and communications. The sound system has an output of 510 watts.
4/9/11
2011 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class
