The Mercedes-AMG SL 55 Is The Latest Open-top Roadster To Flaunt Its Lines In India

• Mercedes has launched the SL 55 AMG Roadster in India at Rs 2.35. 

• It is the only other convertible in Mercedes’ lineup alongside the E-Class cabriolet.

• The 55 AMG is the middle child of the SL range and sits between the SL 43 and 63 trim.

• Packs a 4-litre twin turbo V8 engine producing 476PS and 700Nm.

• Gets rear-wheel steering as standard for improved dynamic ability.

Mercedes is on a streak of hot launches this year. It's only been a couple of weeks since the updated G-Class made a comeback, and now the German carmaker is ready to cash in on its iconic SL nameplate after a 12-year hiatus in the country. Say hello to the gorgeous seventh-generation Mercedes-AMG SL 55, the latest drop-top roadster from Stuttgart, which can be yours for Rs 2.35 crore (ex-showroom).

Design

The styling of the seventh-gen Mercedes SL is striking, especially with the roof folded down. You’ve got smooth flowing lines that flow all the way from the long hood to the truncated-looking rear. Both the LED head- and taillights are sleek and embrace a triangular outline. 

While the overall design is rather coherent, bits like the vertical slats on the grille (an AMG signature), snazzy alloys and the quad exhaust pipes integrated onto a diffuser-like bumper element add a tinge of sportiness to its styling.

Cabin

In typical Mercedes fashion, you’ve got the AMG-derived 3-spoke steering wheel, big screens and turbine inspired aircon vents all around. The central console is made up of a single vertical screen, while there’s a 12.3-inch digital driver’s display behind the steering wheel and a heads-up display as well. 

The wrap around for the central console beneath the vertical screen gets a carbon fibre finish, which goes with its dark interior tone. Overall, you won’t fret having to spend time inside the cabin, which is both opulent and sporty. The AMG-specific seats can be had for no additional cost and offer better support when cornering hard.

Apart from the aforementioned screens, some other features include a 17-speaker Burmester sound system, ambient lighting, electrically adjustable seats, eight airbags and lane-keep assist. 

Powertrain

The SL 55 is actually the mid-spec trim of the SL range and sits below the even more serious and powerful SL 63 trim. But that doesn’t mean this is a jovial or friendly sports car because it still packs a 4-litre twin turbo V8 engine lurking underneath its bonnet. At full thrust, the engine belts out 476PS and 700Nm, which is sent to all four wheels with the help of the 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive system. 

With performance like 0-100 in just 3.9 seconds, and a top speed of 295kmph, even though this isn’t the top-of-the-range model, it still is plenty serious and packs solid punch. Rear wheel steering is offered as a standard equipment, which aids not only in cornering a bit faster, but also helps reduce the turning circle as the rear wheels turn in the opposite direction.

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The SL 55 is only the second convertible offering available in Mercedes’ India lineup alongside the E-Class cabriolet and is one of a handful of convertibles offered in India. Mercedes’ roadster will fend off competition from the likes of the Porsche 911 Cabriolet and Jaguar F-Type Convertible.