2015 Mercedes-Benz SL550

Pros: Impeccable fit and finish with top-notch materials; impressive performance in the best grand-touring-car tradition; fantastic standard and available luxury equipment, including impressive stereo systems

Cons: Incredibly expensive; SL’s size and heft mean it is not as agile as other two-seat sporty roadsters; stop/start function is not as smooth and seamless as it could be

CG Says: The Mercedes-Benz iconic 2-passenger sports car gets an “entry-level” SL400 model powered by a turbocharged V6. From Hollywood to Wall Street, the SL is a vehicle for those who have made it and want to show it. The SL is larger than the Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class and about the same size as the ultra-high-end Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG. SL has a power-retractable hard top. Its rivals include the BMW 6-Series, Jaguar XK, and Porsche 911. As ever, the SL-Class is stylish, amazingly finished, and enjoyable to drive. A few highlights of its many technological features are the “Magic Sky Control” adjustable-tint fixed sunroof, “Airscarf” neck-level heater, and sophisticated “Active Body Control” adjustable suspension. SL’s prices are formidable, but they reflect a genuine premium luxury character; this is one of the most regal two-seat roadsters available.

The Facts
Class Premium Sporty/Performance Car
Body Style(s) 2-door convertible
Passenger Count 2
Drive Wheels rear-wheel drive
Manufacturer Mercedes-Benz
Nation of Manufacture Germany
Base Prices SL400: $84,000
SL550: $106,900
SL63 AMG: $148,050
SL65 AMG: $215,250

Base Engine
turbocharged 3.0-liter V6
Horsepower
329
Std. Transmission
7-speed automatic
Avail. Transmission
NA
EPA City Range (mpg)
20
EPA Hwy Range (mpg)
27

Optional Engine
turbocharged 4.7-liter V8
Horsepower
429
Std. Transmission
7-speed automatic
Avail. Transmission
NA
EPA City Range (mpg)
17
EPA Hwy Range (mpg)
24

Optional Engine
turbocharged 5.5-liter V8
Horsepower
557
Std. Transmission
7-speed automatic
Avail. Transmission
NA
EPA City Range (mpg)
16
EPA Hwy Range (mpg)
25

MY2013 SL63 AMG (Obsidian Black with red seats)
2015 Mercedes-Benz SL63 AMG
2013 Mercedes-Benz SL65 AMG
2015 Mercedes-Benz SL65 AMG
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