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Mercedes-AMG unveils a new SL43 roadster. Positioned as entry-level in the SL family, it nevertheless gains a four-cylinder with 48 V light hybridization and a turbocharger with technology directly derived from F1.
Certainly considered an entry-level SL model by its manufacturer, Mercedes-AMG, the new SL 43 roadster, just unveiled, will not be affordable for all budgets. However, it will be able to make more than one dream with its new engine technology in the SL range. The engine adopts a light hybridization 48 V and a turbocompression technology from Formula 1.
Until now available in two V8 engine versions, the Mercedes-AMG SL will for the first time be offered in a four-cylinder version under the name SL 43. Although the number of cylinders has been halved, the new variant offers a powerful engine of 381 hp and 480 Nm. It is the same engine base as that found in the Mercedes-AMG A 45 S, and if it loses a few horses (450 hp of origin), the 2.0 the turbo gains meanwhile a light hybridization 48 V with an alternator-starter providing 14 hp more in certain situations and allowing the car to reduce its consumption at low speed.
The other advantage of this SL 43 is its turbo-compression technology. Like Formula 1, it incorporates a small electric motor that allows the drive shaft to be rotated before it is set in motion by exhaust gas recycling. This technology aims to minimize the lag between when the driver presses the accelerator pedal and the response. The engine would therefore be available more quickly, from low revs. The 0 to 100 km/h is given in 4.9 s, while its two-wheel drive configuration and its weight not exceeding 1810 kg should give a smile to its driver.
Visually, the SL 43 differs from its V8 counterparts with a smoother front apron and a modified rear end with round tailpipes instead of square tailpipes. The classic proportions of the SL remain unchanged with the Panamerican grille, trademark of Mercedes, and games of curves and roundings.
In order to increase downforce, reduce drag and achieve a more dynamic look, Mercedes is offering a package with additional aerodynamic elements on the front and rear bumpers, as well as a steeper attack angle. pronounced for the active rear wing. The SL 43 is equipped with a series of 19-inch rims. 20 and 21 inch rims are also available as an option.
Similarly, rear-wheel steering and adaptive dampers are available with a choice of settings ranging from Comfort to Sport+. If that weren’t enough, an AMG Dynamic Plus pack is also available, with active engine mounts, an electronically controlled limited-slip differential, a 10mm reduction in ride height and a Race driving mode for outings. on circuit.
The SL 43 adopts the architecture developed by AMG on the V8 models, which allows a 2+2 seating arrangement. The structure is 18% stronger than its predecessor in terms of torsional rigidity, while the new model uses a triple-layer fabric roof instead of the folding metal roof of the previous version, which saves 21kg. It closes in 15 seconds.
The cabin is the same as the other SLs, with a two-tier dashboard dominated by a portrait-oriented touchscreen in the center. It features the latest MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) infotainment system, and its angle can be adjusted by 20 degrees to avoid glare when the top is down. Also featured is a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel, with a rich array of driver assists, upholstery options and skins available.
Pricing for the SL 43 will be announced next month.