1. New Mercedes-Benz SL: A final hurrah for the combustion engine, rivalling Porsche and Aston Martin

2. A new look with a nod to the past

3. Interior: A modern sanctuary

4. Performance: Power and precision

5. Size and ride comfort: Grand touring at its finest

6. A new era for the SL

7. Does the new SL deserve the throne?

New Mercedes-Benz SL: A final hurrah for the combustion engine, rivalling Porsche and Aston Martin

The launch of the latest Mercedes-Benz SL in 2021 marked a significant moment in the history of one of the brand’s most iconic models. With the automotive world rapidly transitioning towards electric power, the newest SL not only celebrates decades of legacy but also serves as the final chapter for the model’s combustion engine, set to compete against the likes of the Porsche 911 and Aston Martin DB11. But can this modern iteration live up to its storied past, and more importantly, does it need to?

A new look with a nod to the past

Visually, the new SL offers a subtle but sophisticated blend of old and new. The return of the fabric roof—previously abandoned for retractable hardtops—is a clear homage to earlier SL models. Beyond this nod to its heritage, the car adopts Mercedes’ current design language, characterized by smooth, flowing lines and distinct creases that lend a sense of understated elegance. The large Panamericana grille, paired with slim LED headlights, hints at the power lurking beneath without overwhelming the eye. It’s a sleeker, more refined take on performance, one that prioritizes luxury and style over ostentation.

Where past SL models, particularly those from AMG, might have leaned toward aggressive aesthetics, the latest iteration balances power with poise. This is a grand tourer designed for the open road, meant to evoke a sense of adventure without the need for brash, over-the-top design cues.

Interior: A modern sanctuary

Inside, the latest SL is every bit the technological marvel one would expect from Mercedes. The 2+2 seating configuration, reminiscent of earlier models, provides just enough space to be practical, though the rear seats are more suited for short trips or additional luggage. The centerpiece of the interior is the MBUX infotainment system, a touchscreen that can be tilted to reduce glare when driving with the roof down. Luxury materials and cutting-edge tech dominate the space, giving drivers and passengers a sense of modernity without feeling disconnected from the car’s heritage.

It’s a far cry from the retro interiors of its predecessors, but this is by design. Mercedes is clearly positioning the SL as a forward-thinking model that isn’t reliant on past glories, but rather, one that looks to the future while paying subtle homage to its roots.

Performance: Power and precision

Under the hood, the new SL is all about performance. Two variants of the M177 V8 engine power the range: the SL55, delivering 469 bhp, and the SL63, which packs an even more impressive 577 bhp. Both models are equipped with a 9-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive, allowing for blistering acceleration. The SL55 reaches 62 mph in just 3.9 seconds, while the SL63 shaves that down to 3.6 seconds, with top speeds of 183 mph and 195 mph, respectively.

This performance is not just about straight-line speed. AMG has engineered the new SL to be a serious contender on twisty roads, with a wet-clutch system ensuring snappy gear changes and an electronically controlled limited-slip differential enhancing stability during spirited driving. It’s a significant step up from the older automatic gearboxes used in past models, offering drivers a far more engaging experience behind the wheel.

A future SL63 E Performance variant is set to incorporate hybrid technology, boosting power output with an additional 201 bhp from an electric motor mounted on the rear axle. This hybrid version will serve as a bridge to the brand’s electric future, ensuring the SL remains competitive in an era where combustion engines are increasingly rare.

Size and ride comfort: Grand touring at its finest

Despite its increased power and performance, the SL remains true to its grand touring roots. The car is larger than rivals like the Porsche 911 Turbo Cabriolet, largely due to the 2+2 seating arrangement. This added length does come at a cost: the new SL is 100 kg heavier than its predecessor, even with the use of lightweight materials like aluminum and composites. However, the weight is balanced by the fabric roof, which can be stowed in just 15 seconds, allowing for open-air cruising.

In terms of ride quality, Mercedes has moved away from the air suspension found in earlier models, opting instead for steel springs and an all-new five-link suspension setup. The result is a car that offers exceptional ride comfort without sacrificing handling. For the SL63, hydraulic crosslinked dampers and an active anti-roll system further enhance the driving experience, providing the sort of comfort and stability expected from a high-end grand tourer.

A new era for the SL

As the last combustion engine SL, the R232 represents the end of an era for Mercedes. It’s fitting, then, that this model is positioned to compete against some of the finest grand tourers on the market today. Whether it can truly rival the likes of the Porsche 911 or Aston Martin DB11 remains to be seen, but what’s clear is that Mercedes has pulled out all the stops to ensure that this final chapter in the SL’s internal combustion story is one for the ages.

Does the new SL deserve the throne?

The question remains: can the new SL take its place among the legends, and does it need to? The SL has always been more than just a car—it’s an icon. The R107 and its successors hold a special place in automotive history, loved not just for their performance, but for their style, durability, and presence. While the latest SL may not have the same instantly recognizable charm as some of its predecessors, it doesn’t need to. This is a car built for a new generation, one that values cutting-edge technology and high-performance engineering.

As we move toward a future dominated by electric vehicles, the new SL serves as a reminder of what made the combustion engine era so thrilling. It’s a fitting send-off, a model that celebrates its past while embracing the future. Whether or not it becomes a classic in the eyes of future generations, only time will tell. But for now, the SL stands as a testament to Mercedes’ commitment to excellence, and to the enduring appeal of the grand tourer.

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Photos sources: paultan.org, theslshop.com, jesmb.de