We first saw the next generation Mercedes-Benz SL class test with its production body back in January this year. For the past seven months, the open-top tourer has been a part of “extensive digital development steps, test standruns, and simulator tests.” The German manufacturer is now pleased that he has reported significant progress in the development of the model and he is finally moving on to intensive road tests.
The overall development of cars of the new SL will be taken by Mercedes-AMG, the company’s performance arm. The next step in the R&D process will take place at Mercedes’ Test and Technology Center in Immendingen, as well as on public roads in Europe. The carmaker has published photos of the two-seater showing it with full body clothing and extra fabric camouflage covering the roof.
9 Photos
Speaking of the roof, it is believed that the new SL will shift from the hardtop layout of the current model to a dust roof. There have also been rumors about a potential 2 + 2 interior configuration, but nothing can be confirmed with complete certainty. Design-wise, Mercedes has said that the new SL will be inspired by the original 300 SL.
The AMG-developed roadster will be closely mechanically related to the next-generation AMG GT. That does not mean that the two will be identical, but they will probably share a few drive options. The roadster’s engine range will start with the RWD SL 43 and go all the way up to a rumored SL 73e 4Matic with a hybrid 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8.
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Mercedes is not ready to announce its launch schedule for the new SL, but we believe the open-top tourer will be unveiled after the second half of next. Sales in the United States could begin before the end of 2021 as a 2022 model.
