The new Mercedes-AMG SL now marks another milestone in the model’s history. It combines the distinct sportiness of the original SL with the unique luxury and technological excellence of the modern Mercedes-AMG models. As the new entry-point model in the series, the SL 43 is a particularly good example of this. It is the world’s first series-produced vehicle to feature an electric exhaust gas turbocharger. This technology comes directly from Formula 1.

With its innovative engine concept, this specific model of the 2+2-seater roadster is aimed more at particularly tech-savvy buyers. With its combination of a comparatively light four-cylinder engine on the front axle and rear-wheel drive, the SL 43 also displays distinctly discrete handling characteristics.

Sculptured excellence in the exterior design

The defining features of the SL body design include the long wheelbase, the short overhangs, the long bonnet, the passenger compartment set further back with steeply raked windscreen, and the powerful rear end. This results in the typical SL proportions. They give the roadster its powerful, dynamic appearance – together with the voluminously modelled wheel arches and the large light-alloy wheels that are flush with the outer skin.

The SL 43 runs on 19-inch light-alloy wheels as standard. In addition, the same range as for the eight-cylinder models is available as an option: aerodynamically optimised light-alloy wheels with diameters of 20 or 21 inches, which reduce air resistance through low turbulence. Particularly sophisticated are 20-inch wheels with plastic aero rings that save additional weight.

Active aerodynamics to increase dynamics and efficiency

A technical highlight for improving aerodynamics is the AIRPANEL active air control system. The horizontal louvres behind the upper air intake are electronically controlled and can be opened and closed with actuator motors. In this way, the airflow is directed according to demand, thus improving aerodynamic performance.

Normally the louvres are closed – even at top speed. This position reduces air resistance. Only once predefined components have reached certain temperatures and the demand for cooling air is particularly high do the louvres open and allow the maximum amount of cooling air to flow to the heat exchangers. This calls for highly intelligent and fast control.

The same applies to another active component of the aerodynamics: the retractable rear spoiler seamlessly integrated into the vehicle profile. It changes its position depending on the driving status. In doing so, the control software considers numerous parameters: It factors the driving speed, the longitudinal and lateral acceleration and the steering speed into the calculation. The spoiler assumes five different angle settings from 80 km/h to either optimise the handling stability or reduce drag.

The optional Aerodynamics Package for the Mercedes-AMG SL 43 includes larger flics on the front and rear bumpers and a larger rear diffuser. This improves both downforce and aerodynamic drag even further. The modified speed thresholds of the rear spoiler and its steeper angle of attack of 26.5 degrees (instead of 22 degrees) in the Dynamic position also contribute to this.

Fabric soft top for less weight and lower centre of gravity

The sportier positioning of the new SL also suggested the decision for an electric soft top instead of the previous metal vario-roof. The 21-kilogram reduction in weight and the resulting lower centre of gravity have a positive effect on driving dynamics and handling. The Z-fold saves space and weight and makes it possible to dispense with a conventional soft-top compartment cover. The front header bow ensures that the open soft top is flush in its final position.

At the same time, the developers were faced with the task of maintaining the high suitability for everyday use and the exemplary quiet-running. The three-layer design consists of a tightly stretched outer shell, a precisely finished roof liner and an acoustic mat made of high-quality 450 g/m² PES fleece inserted in between.

Opening and closing takes only about 15 seconds and is possible up to a speed of 60 km/h. The soft top is operated using the switch panel in the centre console or the multimedia touch screen, on which an animation shows how the process is progressing.

Crafted interior perfectly blends analogue geometry with the digital world

The interior of the Mercedes-AMG SL 43 also features an exciting combination of analogue geometry and the digital world – known as “hyperanalogue”. This is exemplified by the fully digital instrument cluster, which is integrated into a three-dimensional visor. The standard MBUX infotainment system offers a choice of several specific display styles and different modes.

The symmetrical instrument panel is designed as a powerful wing and structured into an upper and lower section. The highlight are the four galvanised turbine nozzles. Their surfaces merge into the instrument panel in the form of powerful power domes. The lower section of the instrument panel evolves fluidly from the centre console, seamlessly connecting the two elements.

Despite symmetry, the cockpit design creates a clear focus on the driver: The high-resolution 12.3-inch LCD screen of the instrument cluster is not designed to be free-standing but integrated into a high-tech visor that prevents reflections caused by sunlight. In order to avoid disturbing light reflections caused by different sun positions when the soft top is open, the tilt of the 11.9-inch Central Display touch screen on the centre console can also be electrically adjusted from 12 degrees to 32 degrees.

The latest generation MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) is intuitive to operate and capable of learning. It offers a host of functional content and the operating structure of the second-generation MBUX system, which debuted in the new Mercedes-Benz S-Class. In the SL, extensive AMG-specific content in five display styles is added. Exclusive menu items such as “AMG Performance” or “AMG TRACK PACE” also emphasise the sporty character.

The SL 43 is equipped as standard with a wide range of electrically and manually adjustable luxury seats in a combination with NAPPA Leather as standard and NAPPA AMG leather are optionally available, as are AMG sports seats and AMG Performance seats with their sculptural design. The optionally available upholstery in MANUFAKTUR macchiato beige/titanium grey or in MANUFAKTUR truffle brown/black ensures a particularly exclusive touch. The AMG Performance seats can also be upholstered in a combination of nappa leather and DINAMICA microfibre with yellow or red decorative topstitching.

In addition to the standard high-gloss black, the trim elements and centre console are also available in aluminium or carbon and in MANUFAKTUR chrome black. The AMG Performance steering wheel with optional steering wheel heater is available in nappa leather and nappa leather/MICROCUT microfibre.

Pricing starts form R2 449 500.