2022 Mercedes-AMG SL Breaks Cover, Gets A 4-litre Twin-turbo V8

• It is based on a new architecture and gets sharper styling, including AMG-specific elements like the aggressive front grille, chunky diffuser, and a quad-exhaust setup.

• The four-seater cabin features an MBUX 11.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a 12.3-inch digital driver’s display, and augmented reality tech.

• The 4-litre biturbo V8 makes 476PS (SL 55) and 585PS (SL 63), paired with a 9-speed automatic and 4Matic+ AWD.

• Other performance highlights include active aerodynamics, an electronic limited-slip differential, and rear-wheel steering.

• Will rival the BMW 8 Series convertible and Porsche 911 Cabriolet.

Mercedes’ longest-running moniker, the SL, has gotten a generational update in the form of the 2022 AMG SL. Not only does it replace its predecessor but also the AMG GT Roadster. The best part is the seventh-generation model is now exclusively AMG, which should translate to zippier performance and a sportier driving experience.

Being an AMG offering, the 2022 SL gets AMG-specific design elements, including the Panamericana front grille with vertical slats. Styling highlights include sharper character lines, angular headlights (inspired by the CLS), S-Class-inspired electronic pop-out door handles, beefy air intakes, quad exhausts, wide taillights, and a chunky diffuser. You can choose from multiple alloy wheel sizes ranging from 19 to 21 inches.

Since it’s a convertible, the roof definitely deserves mention. It is now a three-layer fabric unit replacing the earlier metal roof, and according to Mercedes, it shaves off 21kg. The soft top can be raised or closed in 15 seconds at speeds up to 60kmph.

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The cabin can seat four. The S-Class inspiration is evident from the 11.9-inch MBUX touchscreen infotainment system (that tilts forward for better visibility under the sun) and a 12.3-inch digital driver’s display. Other notable features include turbine-like air vents and a head-up display with augmented reality tech. Also, since it's an AMG, you get the AMG Performance steering wheel and sports seats with neck warmers.

The real fun, however, is under the skin. The SL is built on an all-new architecture with light weight yet super strong materials. In fact, Mercedes claims the bare shell weighs just 270kg! Powering the 2022 AMG SL is a beefy 4-litre biturbo V8 engine in two guises, SL 55 and SL 63. The former makes 476PS and 700Nm, while the latter delivers 585PS and 800Nm. Both engines are paired with an AMG SPEEDSHIFT 9-speed automatic transmission and for the first time in the SL, a 4Matic+ all-wheel drivetrain. This is enough to give a 0-100kmph sprint in 3.9 seconds(SL 55) and 3.6 seconds (SL 63), with a top speed of  295kmph (SL 55) and 315 kmph (SL 63).

Other performance trickery comes in the form of electronic limited slip differential, launch control, as well as rear wheel steering to make it a handy convertible around corners. There’s also active aerodynamics in the mix around the front underbody, as well as the rear spoiler to aid handling. 

 

We’re yet to know whether Mercedes-Benz will bring over the 2022 AMG SL, but it could be an alternative to the BMW 8 Series convertible and Porsche 911 Cabriolet.