Experience the latest edition of an icon – now sportier, more luxurious and more attractive than ever before. The new SL embodies the enjoyment of a roadster without any compromises…
Mercedes SL63 AMG
Engine: 4 litre twin turbo V8
Transmission: 9 speed multi clutch
Power: 430 kW
Torque: 800 Nm @ 2500-5000 rpm
Top Speed: 315 km/h
0-100 km/h: 3.5 seconds
Price: $400,000 (est)
Starting off as a lightweight sportscar with balls, the Mercedes SL-Class has developed into a symbol of personal luxury. The first SL still remains a design icon, while the later ‘Pagoda’ models were the preferred choice for the elite. Now for 2022, there’s a totally redesigned SL63, developed from the ground up by Mercedes’ AMG performance division on an edgier platform.
While it looks less bloated than its predecessor, the long bonnet and the short rear-end still emphasise that AMG menace. Gone is the folding metal roof in favour of a fabric roof, saving 20 kg, promoting a roadster look – and able to fold away in just 15 seconds.
With a new Hyperanalog interior (old-school design with digital enhancements), an 11.9 inch touchscreen dominates the centre console, augmented reality navigation is on the head-up display, while the voice assistant is able to understand you even with the top down.
The rest of the cabin includes top notch materials, with the option of comfort or sport. Active multi-contour seats include Mercedes’ cool Air Scarf technology, which blows hot air on your neck to keep you warm, even with the roof down.
The SL63 uses a mentally unhinged version AMG’s twin-turbocharged 4.0 litre V8 engine paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission, putting out 577 horsepower onto a bonkers 0 to 100 km/h time of 3.5 seconds.
Along with the power, the driving experience here has been mastered with a rear-biased AWD system, capable of sending 100% of the engine’s torque to the rear wheels; and rear-axle steering – able to turn the rear wheels up to 2.5 degrees.
This car can comfortably take you long distance while giving you a massage, then ruin your new haircut, and give you an aural thrill with its V8 engine. It ranks up there with the Lexus LC 500 Convertible, the Aston Martin DB11 and Bentley Continental GT. A hell of a return to form – living up to its legacy.
By Bill Varetimidis
For the full article grab the January 2023 issue of MAXIM Australia from newsagents and convenience locations. Subscribe here.
