Sharper new Mercedes-AMG SL Roadster coming

Mercedes-AMG has been given the job of developing the next-generation Mercedes-Benz SL-Class Roadster and, to prove it, it has released these images of heavily camouflaged pre-production test mules undergoing real-world testing on German tarmac.

We’ve already seen spy shots of the next-gen SL being tested – way back in May 2019 – but at the time it was wearing Mercedes-AMG GT 4-Door clothing. That’s because it will be based on the same rear transaxle platform as next AMG GT two-door.

Now, pre-production examples of the actual 2021 Mercedes-AMG SL Roadster are being road-tested in camo outside the company’s Immendingen proving ground in Germany, as well as on some public roads, according to the manufacturer.

Although difficult to tell beneath the layers of camo, Daimler’s design chief has previously said the Mercedes-Benz’s new flagship roadster will draw styling inspiration directly from the 1954 300 SL Gullwing, saying it’ll be the closest to the original SL than any other generation.

Mercedes-AMG says the on-road testing follows extensive digital development steps, test bench runs and simulator trials for the new sports car, which will go back to its motorsport roots.

“Mercedes-AMG has fittingly taken on the task of overall vehicle development for the reinterpretation of the legendary roadster,” the German car-maker said in a press release.

And, while AMG is remaining quiet on details – saying the test mules are strictly pre-production vehicles – it has confirmed that first market launches of the new SL are due sometime next year, and that it will be strictly a soft-top.