GENEVA MOTOR SHOW: AMG SL debuts

This is one case in which statistics don’t lie: With less weight, more power and a mind-numbing roll-call of chassis technology, the new Mercedes-Benz SL 63 promises to be an unremittingly rapid, clean and capable sports coupe.

Weighing 125kg less than its predecessor and stepping up with at least 395kW/800Nm at its disposal, the new SL 63 is claimed by Mercedes-Benz to be a “giant leap forward” in terms of driving dynamics, lightweight construction and efficiency.

With an all-aluminium body based on the technology applied to the exotic SLS AMG, and extensive use of aluminium in suspension components, the latest SL Benz makes good use of the generous supply of kilowatts.

Even in base 395kW form, it thunders from zero to 100km/h in a blistering 4.3 seconds, with 200km/h coming up in 12.9 seconds. Top speed is 250km/h (electronically limited).

That’s the cooking version. For the first t6ime, the SL 63’s 5.5-litre bi-turbo V8 also comes in a higher-output form via an AMG Performance Package that lifts power to 415kW and torque to a massive 900Nm. This is good enough to bring zero to 100km/h down to 4.2 seconds, with 200km/h coming up in 12.6 seconds. Top speed potential – also electronically limited – is 300km/h.

Mercedes-Benz says the suspension package is a “winning combination.” It comprises Active Body Control, new AMG speed-sensitive sports steering, AMG high performance compound brake system and the four-mode AMG Speedshift MCT seven-speed sports transmission. The transmission also incorporates a “Race Start” function for maximum effect on takeoff.

For all this, the quoted combined fuel consumption figure for both versions is 9.9L/100km, with a CO2 figure of 231g/km – both aided by the efficiencies of light weight and high-tech engine design including an ECO stop/start function.

External identifiers include an AMG front apron, AMG LED daytime running lights, an AMG double-louvre chrome grille, V8 Biturbo logos on the vent grilles, and an AMG lip spoiler at the rear with quad exhaust pipes and an AMG diffuser.

The SL 63 will be available with a retractable hardtop Vario-Roof that deploys in less than 20 seconds and is available in body colour, glass or with Magic Sky Control that enables the driver to switch from dark to light at the press of a button.

Standard equipment is typically extensive, including such things as the Benz Comand system, ILS intelligent light system, Neck-Pro head restraints and the Pre-Safe system that prepares the car for an imminent collision.

Options are extensive too, and include Airscarf neck-level heating, “climatised” seats, Active Parking Assist and a choice of Bang and Olufsen or Harman Kardon surround sound systems.

An Edition 1 option, marking the launch of the new model, brings Airscarf neck-level heating, special matt-black wheels, the AMG performance package, specific leather trim and headliner, Harmon/Kardon sound system and the Magic Sky Control Vario Roof.