2009 Mercedes Benz SL: Unveiling the Mercedes SL550, Mercedes SL 600, SL 63 AMG & Mercedes SL 65 AMG
A direct descendant of the 1954 300 SL Gullwing, Benz’s SL series gets a fresh look for 2009—and a heavy dose of technology on the inside. It’s less a complete redesign than a refreshing of the current platform across the Mercedes SL550, Mercedes SL 600, SL 63 AMG models and Mercedes SL AMG 65. The most recognizable difference between old and new is the much more aggressive, V-shape nose section with multi-element bi-xenon headlamps. But travel around the outside of the SL and you’ll notice a multitude of other changes like the longer hood (with dual power domes), new rear diffuser, trapezoidal exhaust outlets and new tail lamps. Even with the aggressive nose, the 2009 Mercedes Benz SL hangs on to the same aerodynamic performance and the weight distribution.
2009 Mercedes Benz SL
Mercedes is, however, showing off its direct steering system for the first time. Based on the current speed-sensitive power steering system, it adds more assistance for quick maneuvers but loses some as the SL climbs in speed. The new rig includes a variable-ratio steering rack that adjusts with steering angle for sharper handling.
The Mercedes convertible SL’s four-link front and multi-link rear suspension remain basically unchanged, and Active Body Control has been made standard on the Mercedes SL550, Mercedes SL 600 and SL 63 AMG—and on the special-order Mercedes SL 65 AMG. The powerplants stay the same, too, with the exception of the new SL 63 AMG, which makes 518 hp and 465 lb.-ft. of torque to replace last year’s SL 55 AMG. All versions of the new Mercedes SL Class come with a revised version of the Benz’s 7G-Tronic 7-speed automatic transmission (the AMG versions previously used the old 5-speed automatic). The new transmission has a new wet clutch system and four internal clutches for fast-shifting manumatic operation, plus a revised shift program that includes a sporty throttle blip between downshifts.
Inside, the 2009 Mercedes Benz SL features a three-spoke, leather-and-wood steering wheel and new graphics on the main instruments, with electric stepper motors that send needles around the dials and back to rest when you start the ignition.
2009 Mercedes Benz SL
Airscarf, a technology pioneered on the SLK roadster in 2004, has been improved and added to the SL as an option. It uses an air intake, a heating element and an electric fan in each head restraint to keep the driver and passenger’s noggins warm when cruising in the cold with the top down. It has three temperature ranges to suit weather conditions.
The Command infotainment system in the SL’s center stack has a new look and additional functions, with AM, FM, CD, DVD, iPod and SD memory card capabilities, a Bluetooth function for mobile devices, and a 6.5-in. color display that imparts all relevant entertainment and navigation information. It can even play DVDs, but only when you’re parked. Command now moves beyond just iPod usability to includes a universal media interface that accepts USB sticks and most other popular portable music players. And it can display the music info on the screen and speedometer face. The optional Command APS system adds a 4GB hard drive that holds up to 1000 songs, an HDD navigation system and Linguatronic voice-activation system. The new surround-sound audio system uses ten speakers and 510 watts of power.
All cars bound for our shores will be shipped with the AMG Sport body package, in both Mercedes SL55 AMG V8 models and V12-powered Mercedes SL 600 models—and, of course, the top dog SL 63 AMG and uber dog Mercedes SL 65 AMG. All North American models will employ 18-in. wheels and tires standard, with 19-in. tires and wheels optional. The new Mercedes SL Class goes on sale in May.