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 next 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 ii features a folding fabric roof in place of the outgoing models’ power-folding hardtop, thereby retaining its open-air persona while also saving weight.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
Both SL models of the 2022 Mercedes-AMG SL-class 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. When we get a chance to drive the new SL for ourselves, we’ll update this story with driving impressions and test results.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
Neither Mercedes nor the EPA has offered any insight into the 2022 SL-class’s fuel-economy estimates yet, but we expect that information to be available closer to the car’s on-sale date. Both V-8–powered versions of the 8-series and the LC are rated at 25 mpg highway, which is a good target for the new SL.
When we get a chance to put the new 2022 Mercedes-AMG SL-class through our 75-mph highway fuel-economy test, which is part of our extensive testing regimen, we can evaluate its real-world mpg. For more information about the SL’s fuel economy, visit the EPA’s website.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
The 2022 Mercedes-AMG SL-class remains solely a two-door convertible. But rather than last generation’s complicated folding hardtop, a fabric roof has been used on the new model to save weight and maximize cargo space. Still, don’t expect an expansive trunk. A pair of small rear seats provide a place to park an occasional passenger, but that area is better suited to cargo than people.
The interior of the 2022 Mercedes-AMG SL-class appears plenty luxurious and Mercedes’ novel Airscarf feature, which gently blows warm air on the driver and front passenger’s neck during cold weather drives, is standard.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
Neither Mercedes nor the EPA has offered any insight into the 2022 SL-class’s fuel-economy estimates yet, but we expect that information to be available closer to the car’s on-sale date. Both V-8–powered versions of the 8-series and the LC are rated at 25 mpg highway, which is a good target for the new SL.
When we get a chance to put the new SL-class through our 75-mph highway fuel-economy test, which is part of our extensive testing regimen, we can evaluate its real-world mpg. For more information about the SL’s fuel economy, visit the EPA’s website.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
The 2022 Mercedes-AMG SL-class-class remains solely a two-door convertible. But rather than last generation’s complicated folding hardtop, a fabric roof has been used on the new model to save weight and maximize cargo space. Still, don’t expect an expansive trunk.
A pair of small rear seats provide a place to park an occasional passenger, but that area is better suited to cargo than people. The interior appears plenty luxurious and Mercedes’ novel Airscarf feature, which gently blows warm air on the driver and front passenger’s neck during cold weather drives, is standard.
