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Mercedes-Benz of Annapolis

2017 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class

New for 2017

The SL gets a substantial overhaul for 2017, including revised styling and added technology features.

The Legend Continues

From the 1950s “Gullwing” and 1960s “Pagoda roof” to more recent AMG® hot rods, the Mercedes-Benz SL-Class has been the automaker's flagship for performance and luxury for over 50 years. Each generation of SL has been one of the most well-regarded luxury cars of its era, and the current generation is no different. For 2017, the SL gets a number of updates—including revised styling and new tech features—that should keep it on top.

Performance

SL stands for “Sportlich-Leicht” or “Sport Lighweight,” and with a name like that you’d expect this Mercedes-Benz roadster to offer some serious performance. The SL has done just that for over 50 years, and it continues to do so for 2017 with four distinct models.

The SL 450 may be the entry-level model of the SL-Class lineup, but it’s no slouch. It features a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6, with 362 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. The V6 is mated to a nine-speed automatic transmission, and all SL models feature rear-wheel drive. The SL 450 will do 0 to 60 mph in 4.9 seconds, according to Mercedes-Benz, while top speed is electronically limited to 155 mph. The SL 450 is also the fuel-economy champ of the SL lineup, achieving an EPA-rated 23 mpg combined.*

Mercedes-Benz also offers the SL 550 with a 4.7-liter twin-turbocharged V8. This engine produces 449 horsepower and a staggering 700 pound-feet of torque, which is channeled through a nine-speed automatic transmission as in the SL 450. The SL 550 will do 0 to 60 mph in 4.3 seconds, according to Mercedes-Benz, and has the same electronically limited top speed of 155 mph as the SL 450. It will also achieve an EPA-rated 20 mpg combined.*

While the SL 450 and SL 550 offer performance worthy of the SL name, the real hot rods of the lineup are the AMG® SL 63 and AMG® SL 65, from the manufacturer's in-house performance tuner. Both AMG® models feature handcrafted engines, sport suspension with Active Body Control, quicker-shifting seven-speed automatic transmissions, limited-slip differentials, and more aggressive styling.

The AMG® SL 63 packs a 5.5-liter twin-turbocharged V8, boasting 577 hp and 664 lb-ft of torque. Mercedes-Benz says it will do 0 to 60 mph in 4.0 seconds while the top speed for both AMG® models is electronically limited to 186 mph. The AMG® SL 63 is rated at 19 mpg combined* by the EPA.

Finally, the AMG® SL 65 sits at the top of the SL-Class lineup. This flagship model features a 6.0-liter twin-turbocharged V12, offering the smoothness and sophistication engines of this noble configuration are known for. The V12 produces 621 hp and 738 lb-ft of torque, getting the AMG® SL 65 from 0 to 60 mph in 3.9 seconds. This model gets an EPA-rated 16 mpg combined.*

Features

The 2017 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class is a two-door, two-seat convertible. Pricing starts at $85,950.**

Standard features include a power-retractable hardtop, 19-inch wheels, LED exterior lighting, panorama roof, three-spoke multifunction sport steering wheel, sun-reflecting leather upholstery, heated 16-way power seats with memory, dual-zone automatic climate control, COMAND® infotainment system with central controller, navigation, voice control, Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™ integration, harman/kardon® Logic 7® audio system, and much more.

Optional features include a Magic Sky Control variable-transparency glass roof, multiple wood trims including bamboo, Nappa leather upholstery, active multicontour seats with massage, AIRSCARF® neck-level heating system, ventilated seats, soft-close doors, Bang & Olufsen® BeoSound premium audio system, an in-car Wi-Fi hotspot, and more.

The SL is also available with the suite of mbrace® connected services, which cover functions like remote vehicle monitoring, concierge services, media, automatic collision notification, and stolen vehicle tracking.

Design

The SL enters the 2017 model year with a refreshed design that incorporates elements from other recent Mercedes-Benz models, including the AMG® GT sports car. The revised front end features a larger “diamond” grille, a new hood with twin power bulges, standard LED headlights, and larger cosmetic air intakes for a more aggressive look. As always, the SL features a standard power-retractable hardtop, offering the practicality of a coupe with the fun of a convertible.

The interior retains its luxurious feel with comfortable standard leather seats, and gains a few new gadgets. An ambient-lighting system projects mood lighting throughout the cabin in multiple colors, and the manufacturer's COMAND® infotainment system now features Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™ smartphone connectivity.

To make the most of the SL’s trunk space, Mercedes-Benz added an automatic trunk separator that moves depending on whether the top is raised or lowered, defining the usable trunk space. A loading setting also allows the stowed roof to move, making it easier to access the trunk without having to fully deploy the roof.

Safety

Standard safety equipment on the 2017 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class includes anti-lock brakes, stability and traction controls, pop-up roll bars, Attention Assist, Active Brake Assist, Pre-Safe® pre-collision system, high beam assist, Neck-Pro front head restraints, and eight airbags.

Optional features include Distance Pilot DISTRONIC® and Steering Pilot, blind spot assist, lane keep assist, rearview camera, and park assist.

Verdict

The 2017 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class continues the manufacturer's tradition of sporty and luxurious roadsters.

For more information or to schedule a test drive of the 2017 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class, contact us online or visit Mercedes-Benz of Annapolis at 324 6th St, Annapolis, MD 21403.

*EPA estimated fuel economy. Compare the estimated mpg to the estimated mpg of other vehicles. You may get different mileage depending on how fast you drive, weather conditions and trip length. Your actual highway mileage will probably be less than the highway estimate.

**Excludes all options, taxes, title registration, $925 transportation charge and dealer preparation fees.

harman/kardon and Logic 7 are registered marks of Harman International Industries, Incorporated.

Image: Mercedes-Benz