Benz SL makeover
Luxury Benz two-seater applies makeup, adds new entry-level version for Geneva launchSix years after its introduction to Australia in 2002, the Mercedes-Benz SL has reached the head of the line for a mid-life facelift.
The upgraded model range (more here) has gone on show in Geneva this week with a subtle new look up front, a revised rear end and a re-jig of the powerplant lineup that brings more power, improved acceleration times and lower fuel consumption in the SL350 model, while adding a new SL280 V6 "entry" version with 170kW and 300Nm of torque.
In a way, the new 3.5-litre V6 in the SL350 is something of a hero powerplant -- with due deference to the 285kW SL500 V8 and 380kW SL600 V12 versions that continue unabated -- as it not only adds significant punch to on-road performance, but also does everything more efficiently.
The new SL350 engine develops 232kW, or 16 per cent more power than the current version, along with an impressive 360Nm of torque, which is a 10Nm improvement. This allows the car to reach 100km/h from standstill in 6.2 seconds, which is 0.4 of a second faster than the current model, while returning an average fuel economy of 9.9L/100km -- better by 0.4L/100km than the current SL350.
The visual changes are subtle but will be easily spotted by Benz enthusiasts.
There's a new grille with a strong, single centre bar, new twin-bulges on the bonnet and new headlights that depart from the dividing-amoeba theme of the original.
The side gills between the wheel arch and the doors have been changed, moving from horizontal to vertical vents, and there's a revised rear end with trapezoidal exhaust outlets and the obligatory diffuser-style bumper.
The seven-speed auto transmission also adds a new function that blips the throttle on downshifts to give a sportier sound, along with a "noticeable reduction in load-change reactions".
Also new to the SL Benz is an optional "direct-steer" system with a variable rack ratio to enhance feel at all speeds, and the also-optional AIRSCARF neck-warming arrangement -- first seen in the smaller SLK -- that keeps driver and passenger comfortable during roof-down motoring in cold weather.
The new SL comes to Australia in July this year, with local specifications and prices to be announced near the time of launch.
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