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A second plug-in hybrid version of the Mercedes-Benz SL is under development. This undisguised example is being developed in the Austrian Alps.
The front fascia looks the same as the one on the previous SL PHEV. There is a trapezoidal element with a metal lining in the middle. Intakes with a rough trapezoid shape are on each side. The grille has vertical ribs, and there’s an AMG logo on the driver’s side.
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This Roadster rides on wheels with five pairs of spokes. The AMG branded ring is separate from the rim.
Without looking at the back, you might think this is the same as the SL PHEV example we peeked earlier. However, this car has a rectangular exhaust instead of a square shape for outlets on other vehicles.
The black band partially covers the charging door on the passenger side of the rear bumper.
Our spies believe this model will be placed under the other SL PHEV. It probably earned the name SL 53, suggesting a place in the lineup that is a step below SL 55 but above SL 43.
The powertrain for this model is a complete mystery. One possibility is to take the 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder from the SL 43 and give it an extra boost from the electric motor. This model already uses a 48-volt starter-generator and has an electric-assisted turbocharger that reduces lag.
The hotter SL PHEV is reported to use a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine in 63 trim with the addition of an electric motor. The result is expected to be an 800-hp (597-kilowatt) output, which is a healthy increase over the unaided 577-hp (430 kW) rating.
It’s also unclear when this SL PHEV model will debut. The fact that Mercedes doesn’t disguise them shows that the company doesn’t see much reason to hide them. Sometimes, this is an indication that the opening is not too far away.
For a discussion of the new SL-Class, check out this episode of Rambling About Cars:
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