Highs Punchy V-8 power, eye-catching styling, cozy and luxury-lined cabin.
Lows Handling isn't as agile as key rivals, snug rear seat space, high starting price tag.
Verdict The reimagined SL-class offers enough sportiness to be an AMG and enough comfort to be a Benz, but its split personality means it lacks focus.
Overview
With a legacy that stretches back all the way to the original 300SL Gullwing, the 2022 Mercedes-AMG SL-class is an automotive icon. Recent examples haven't been as impressive as expected and a host of newer two-door, four-seat grand touring convertibles have rendered it obsolete, but the new generation SL is taking a sportier tack and will be offered only with an AMG badge. The entry-level SL55 is powered by a 469-hp twin-turbo V-8 while the racier SL63 gets a 577-hp version of that same motor. All-wheel drive and four-wheel steering are both standard and are intended to improve both handling and performance. Although it’s being reimagined as a more focused sports car, the new SL also sports a luxurious and tech-heavy cabin. And in a nod to previous generations, the new SL features a folding fabric roof in place of the outgoing models’ power-folding hardtop, thereby retaining its open-air persona while also saving weight.
What's New for 2022?
Mercedes-AMG's iconic SL-class is all new for 2022, following a short hiatus and it should be on sale in time for convertible season.
A host of luxury features come standard on all SL models, including massaging seats, a head-up display, and a Burmester stereo system. We'd go with the more expensive SL63 to unlock the twin-turbo V-8's maximum power figure. Both the SL55 and SL63 are offered in either Touring or Performance specifications, with the latter coming with a front axle lift feature (to help it clear speed bumps) and darkened exterior trim.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
Both SL models are powered by a twin-turbo 4.0-liter V-8 borrowed from the GT sports car. In the SL55 the engine makes a stout 469 horsepower but upgrading to the SL63 boosts that figure to a thundering 577 ponies. A nine-speed automatic is the only transmission, and an all-wheel drive system and four-wheel steering are standard on all SL models. Such powertrains will allow the revived SL-class to take on convertible versions of the BMW 8-series and the Lexus LC—both of which are offered with powerful V-8 engines—as well as more sporting rivals, such as the Porsche 911. During our initial test drive, we found the SL to be just off from its new, sportier mission. The car offers several adjustable drive modes, which makes it hard to dial in just the right amount of agility and comfort, giving the impression that it's not quite focused enough on one or the other. Acceleration is prompt, especially with the more powerful version of the V-8 on board and we estimate that the SL63 will reach 60 mph in just 3.1 seconds.
