This is the new Mercedes SL, details of which have been leaked onto the internet ahead of the official launch date later this month.It may look like an entirely new model, but in reality this is a facelifted version of the current SL with updated steering and new engine range.The most significant addition is the SL280; a new 228bhp, V6 model that will become the entry-level option. Claimed figures have the SL280 returning as much as 30mpg, whilst the 0-60mph run is done in 7.8sec. A new variable ratio, speed sensitive steering system has also been added to enhance the SL's 'sporty driving pleasure' by making it more responsive. The same system has been fitted to the new SLK, which was revealed last year.The V6 unit in the SL350 has received a significant upgrade, with power increased to 311bhp on the current car's 268bhp. Otherwise, upgrades are restricted to the optional 'Intelligent Light System', facelifted interior and new infotainment system. The biggest change is cleary the front end, which reflects the latest Mercedes design cues and is also intended to link to the historic SL Roadster models; the powerdomes on the bonnet and air outlets in the front wings take inspiration from the iconic 1954 300 SL.The new Mercedes SL will be unveiled officially unveiled at the Geneva motor show in March, before going on sale in April.
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Re: Revealed: New Mercedes SL
Yuk!! I'd take the previous model any day of the week (or an XKR, Maser GT, etc) - what were they thinking with those hideous, dis-proportionate headlights?? Makes the 6-Series look pretty.
Re: Revealed: New Mercedes SL
Yup. Slobodan Milosovic slapped with a wet fish would be prettier than this car. Still, it's good to see that Mercedes have stepped up to the challenge: can we make a car uglier than the R-class...
Re: Revealed: New Mercedes SL
Lazy. And much uglier than the car it replaces.
MB were having trouble shifting units before they ruined the styling.
110cc and 4 gears, all the fun I get to have at the moment.
Re: Revealed: New Mercedes SL
Errr... it's a bit early for April fools day is it not? This has to be a joke, it's vile. No other word for it.
Re: Revealed: New Mercedes SL
this is a dream come true for me!
i always wanted to see a whale shark.... but i was expecting to have to go diving to see one!
Re: Revealed: New Mercedes SL
That front overhang is painful. I don't quite know what else to say... It will probably make children cry too.
Re: Revealed: New Mercedes SL
Although slightly fussy in some of the details the orignal version of this generation SL was almost perfect and looked stunning. Sadly, these comments can't be labelled towards this awkward looking facelift. I'm sure Merc's current styling theme could have been better grafted onto to the previous look, but maybe they had a schmoke at the time.
Re: Revealed: New Mercedes SL
It's clearly an update not a 'new' model and seems Merc were not sure what to do! With the SLR they apparently had 3 design studiesand preferred the front of 1 design and the rear of another.. so they bolted the 2 together. And I think that's whats happened here. So Merc updated the SL with its best looking car and bolted the CLS front on the SL chassis. Pics suggest it wasn't such a good idea!
Re: Revealed: New Mercedes SL
It looks as though they are going through their Vauxhall phase.
Where has all Japanese design went to?
Re: Revealed: New Mercedes SL
This re-hash of SL, C Class and the CLS has produced.....the bastard child of the Cadillac XLR - you have a look, take the Merc star away and you're left with a 2004 design from the US.....oh dear.
if it's heavy, it ain't happenin'
