The completely overhauled Mercedes-Benz SL makes its debut for the 2022 model with a proven formula that has undergone radical changes. A fresh new design language, a new platform, a more luxurious cabin and new technology make up what is probably the best roadster ever produced by the Stuttgart-based company. Depending on the region, several different powertrains are currently available and the US market gets the SL55 and SL63 models, both featuring a twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 engine.
It is impossible and illegal to test the SL63’s top speed in the United States, but fortunately, the folks from AutoTopNL had the opportunity to test the vehicle on an unrestricted section of German highways and see what the most powerful version of the roadster could achieve in terms of top speed. The video is attached at the top of this page and starts with a tour around the SL63, followed by a brief explanation of what’s hidden beneath the new SL skin.
As mentioned, the SL63 is powered by Mercedes’ proven twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 engine, which in this application produces 577 horsepower (430 kilowatts) and 590 pound-feet (800 Newton-meters) of torque. A nine-speed automatic transmission delivers power to the wheels and provides launch control functions. There’s optional all-wheel drive for the first time in SL history, although this example doesn’t feature grippy technology.
On paper, sprinting from rest to 62 miles per hour (0-100 kilometers per hour) takes only 3.6 seconds. In this case, however, we’re more interested in the top speed level the new SL can reach, which, in theory, should be around 196 mph (315 kph). In fact, at least in the conditions in which this video was shot, the roadster recorded an astonishing top speed of 204 mph (328 kph), far beyond what Mercedes had hoped for.
The new SL range now also includes a less thirsty four-cylinder model. It’s currently being considered for the US market and it will be interesting to see how quickly this model goes before we potentially see it go on sale in America.
