Mercedes Benz SL-Class

Introduction:

Mercedes is one of the biggest names amongst the mid-luxury manufacturing giants in the world today and much of the credits go to the perfect balance this name maintains between luxury and athleticism. One of the more athletic cars from the Mercedes arsenal is Mercedes Benz SL-Class, this supremely aesthetic roadster was first introduced as “Gullwing”, the SL class started its journey in the late 1950's. Building on to the legacy for half a century, there is no way that SL class has not lost the charisma with which it was debuted. The SL's have always been the symbol of elegance and speed. With the introduction of sixth-generation SL class, the brand has set another benchmark in the Malaysian auto world. The all-aluminum body of the Merc comes with more agile and sporty look. Interior of the car is the amalgamation of quality material and fit and fine finish.

Engine, mileage and variants:

Officially this 2-door roadster comes in three versions- SL 350 BlueEFFICIENCY, SL 63 AMG, SL 65 AMG. The BlueDIRECT technology introduced in the 3489 cc V6 petrol engine of the SL 350 enables it to knock 302 hp at 6500 rpm and delivers an overall torque of 370 Nm between 3500 rpm to 5250 rpm. Introduction of AMG package in a humongous 5.5-litre V8 engine of the SL 63 enables it to churn out a massive 530 hp maximum power output at 5500 rpm with a pulsating torque of 800 Nm between 2000 rpm to 4500 rpm. On the other hand, one of a kind 6.0-litre biTurbo V12 engine which puts every other engine to shame, delivers a magnificent 621 HP power at 4800 rpm with a rated torque of unbelievable 1000 Nm between 2300 rpm at 4300 rpm. BlueEFFICIENCY technology introduced in the powerhouse enables it to offer a combined mileage between 13.3 km/l to 14.7 km/L. The speed factor embedded takes this coupe across 0-100 kmph in a blazing fast 4.3 seconds for SL 65 AMG and 5.9 seconds for SL 350 BlueEfficiency. The top speed of all the variants is electronically limited to 250 km/hr.

Exteriors:

Mercedes SL Class is one of the products from this luxury arsenal that fits the bill, from the outside and within it is aesthetic supreme and is a delight to drive at sky rocketing speeds. Masculine look of the new SL Class is the result of quality engineering done to the streamlined silhouette of the tourer. Dynamic lines flowing to the car depicts the aerodynamic trait it is bestowed with. Broad open air inlets to the front enable extra to be transported to the engine. The vario-roof in the car is the true blend of technology and innovation. Chrome embossed dual muffler gives a sporty impression to the car. All-aluminum light weight body of the grand tourer has dimensional figure of 4617mm X 1877mm X 1315mm (LXWXH). The 19 inch alloy of the SL accommodates a standard tyre size of 255/35 R19 at the front and 285/30 R19 to the rear.

Interiors:

Wood finished trim elements and black leather upholstery enhances the luxuriousness it is gifted with. The driver oriented centre console flows down the waistline of the car. Turbine look of the air vents are the signature look of all Benz's sports car. The SL-Class is blessed to be equipped with a world's first 'Magic Vision Control' adaptive wiper system which clears the windscreen with much precision and without causing a bigger hindrance in the drivers view. Multi functional 3-spoke steering wheel has decent set of controls that eases the way of driving and enhances the sportiness of the tourer. Optional Harman Kardon sound system provides a 3D surround sound and gives an absolute acoustic pleasure. Integrated memory function in the seats stores individual seating settings and adjusts it automatically. Thermostatic climate control offers personalized cooling for both driver as well as passenger. Ample boot space between 241 litres to 381 litres across different variants is sufficient to accommodate load of baggages during long travel.

Safety, Braking and Miscellaneous:

Ventilated and perforated brake disc of the car is equipped with anti-lock braking system for efficient and dynamic braking. Multi-link suspension on the car is equipped with Active Body Control (ABC) that offers comfort and sport mode suspension settings to enhance the driving pleasure. Torque vectoring brake installed in the car offers better road traction by reducing the rotational speed of the rear wheel to inside of the curve, thus ensuring improved stability. During crash the airbags of the SL inflates in two stages according to the impact. The neck PRO head restrain offer ample support to the head during sudden impacts. Roll-over bars equipped in the car deploy with in split second after sensing any over turning danger, thus preventing any fatal head injuries.

Verdict:

Mercedes Benz SL Class is one of the most luxurious mid-range coupes available in the market today. With improved driving dynamics the car possesses dynamic performance trait. The safety and comfort it provides is truly remarkable, it is certainly your go-to drive if you are willing to break your bank that is.