The SL is one of the oldest Mercedes-Benz model lines, so it is not surprising that the current Super-Leicht just gets a successor again. With the new SL, however, Mercedes-Benz is just taking a different approach.
Ever since the illustrious 300 SL, the two-letter combination ‘SL’ has been an iconic model name at Mercedes-Benz. However, in recent years Mercedes-Benz has had some difficulty in giving the current model a clear place in its line-up. Not only does the brand have various four-seater convertibles on the menu, it also offers the sporty two-seater AMG GT Roadster. However, it seems that the SL has found its niche. The new generation visible in these photos is being developed by Mercedes-AMG side by side with the new AMG GT. The AMG GT line will be the sporty two-seater at the top of the Mercedes range, the SL will come alongside as a more comfortable two-seater alternative with its own body and therefore its own character. The S-class Cabrio will not return and that gives the SL a clearer place in the Benz lineup.
The disappearance of the S-class Cabrio gives the SL a more individual place
The snapped specimen is covered with slightly less camouflage material than the previously snapped test specimens of the new SL. For example, the misleading roof rails on this test specimen are no longer visible. In addition, it can finally be said with certainty that the new SL will exchange the steel folding roof of the current model for a fabric folding roof. That of course saves a lot of pounds. The new SL, which will probably appear in the order books as a Mercedes-AMG, will probably not only come as a relatively mild SL ’43’, but also as a fierce SL 73e. The 73rd AMG version seems to be an electrified variant with 4Matic drive that will bring about 800 hp to the road.
We do not expect an official disclosure before the second half of this year.