The 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL marks the continuation of an iconic lineage, celebrating 60 years of blending sportiness, style, and unparalleled comfort with groundbreaking innovations. For six decades, the “SL” designation has been synonymous with automotive excellence, and the latest iteration elevates this heritage to new heights. This model year marks a significant shift, with the SL being crafted almost entirely from aluminum, resulting in a considerably lighter vehicle compared to its predecessor. This innovative all-aluminum bodyshell not only reduces weight but also provides exceptional rigidity, forming the foundation for remarkably agile and sporty handling, while maintaining superior ride comfort. The driving experience is further enhanced by a new direct-injection engine, delivering increased power and improved fuel efficiency. Technological advancements abound, including the revolutionary FrontBass system, transforming the cabin into a concert hall experience whether the top is up or down, and the highly effective MAGIC VISION CONTROL system for optimal visibility in all weather conditions. The 2013 SL550 made its debut in U.S. showrooms in the spring, promising a new chapter in the storied SL saga.
The 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL distinguishes itself from its acclaimed predecessor by offering a more refined balance of comfort and athletic prowess, establishing new benchmarks in the luxury roadster segment. Its exceptional everyday usability solidifies the SL’s position as the most versatile sports car in its class. To speak of the new SL is to acknowledge the pinnacle of passionate and sophisticated driving.
Dr. Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of the Board of Management of Daimler AG and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars, aptly stated, “There are around 900 million cars in the world and thousands of models. But there is only a handful of automotive icons. Our SL is one of them: It has class, it has style, it is the ultimate in comfort and luxury. And it combines all that with an incredibly sporty and dynamic character. You would struggle to find a car that embodies Gottlieb Daimler’s aspiration more perfectly than our new SL – the best or nothing.”
A Lighter and Stiffer Foundation: The Sophisticated All-Aluminum Bodyshell
The 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL truly embodies the essence of its “Sport Leicht” (Sport Light) designation. Weight reduction is a central design principle of this new SL, echoing its namesake, the original 1952 SL, famed for its lightweight tubular frame. For the first time in its series production, Mercedes-Benz has implemented a near-total aluminum bodyshell. Only a select few components utilize other materials, with even lighter magnesium employed for the cover panel behind the fuel tank and the roof structure. High-strength steel tubing is strategically integrated into the A-pillars to enhance safety.
This groundbreaking aluminum bodyshell achieves a weight saving of approximately 242 pounds compared to a steel counterpart of its predecessor. Dr. Thomas Rudlaff, the Mercedes-Benz engineer responsible for the aluminum bodyshell, explains the impact: “The effect is as if a large passenger has stepped out of the car. The result is perceptible and measurable. Less weight means improved performance and efficiency. In other words, the driving pleasure increases and the environmental impact decreases.”
Beyond weight reduction, the aluminum structure surpasses the previous steel construction in rigidity, safety, and comfort. This advancement is attributed to intelligent lightweight construction, where components are optimized for their specific functions. Diverse aluminum processing techniques are employed, tailored to component use, including chill casting, vacuum die casting, extruded aluminum sections, and aluminum panels of varying thicknesses. The result is a structure that delivers high rigidity and exceptional safety while minimizing resonance and vibrations.
Despite incorporating enhanced comfort features and advanced assistance systems, which typically add weight, the 2013 SL manages to weigh around 275 pounds less than its predecessor, specifically the SL550 model. This remarkable weight reduction is a testament to Mercedes-Benz’s meticulous attention to detail and the comprehensive implementation of lightweight design principles throughout the vehicle, not just in the aluminum bodyshell.
Enhanced Driving Pleasure: Powerful Engine and Agile Suspension
The 2013 SL is engineered to deliver exhilarating driving pleasure, characterized by potent acceleration, effortless cruising at any speed, and nimble handling on winding roads. The SL550 is equipped with a powerful engine and a finely tuned suspension system that strikes a harmonious balance between sporty responsiveness and luxurious comfort. Intelligent lightweight construction extends to the suspension components, with aluminum steering knuckles and suspension arms on the front axle, and virtually all suspension components on the rear axle, further reducing unsprung masses and enhancing agility.
The new SL offers two suspension configurations: the Agility Control Suspension as standard and the optional Active Body Control (ABC) suspension system. Both systems are paired with a new electromechanical Direct-Steer system featuring speed-sensitive power steering and a variable steering ratio dependent on steering wheel angle. This system provides exceptional directional stability and safety at high speeds, while simultaneously enhancing the SL’s agility in tighter maneuvers and reducing steering effort during parking and low-speed maneuvering.
Powering the SL550 is a new V8 engine producing 429 horsepower from a 4663 cc displacement. This represents a 12 percent increase in power compared to its predecessor, despite a smaller 0.8-liter displacement. Simultaneously, fuel consumption is reduced, and torque is significantly increased from 391 lb-ft to 516 lb-ft, a remarkable 32 percent gain. The engine incorporates an ECO stop/start function as standard equipment, and the 7-Speed Driver-Adaptive automatic transmission has been optimized for both fuel efficiency and smooth comfort. The impressive fuel economy of this direct-injection engine does not compromise the roadster’s sporty character in any way. On the contrary, the SL550 accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.5 seconds, a full eight-tenths of a second quicker than the previous SL550.
Aesthetic, Stylish, Sporty Interior
The interior of the 2013 SL seamlessly blends a honed sporty aesthetic with a luxurious ambiance. Premium materials, meticulously finished with exceptional attention to detail, define the style and character of the cabin.
Compared to the previous generation, the new SL is notably longer (+1.97 inches) and wider (+2.24 inches), translating to increased interior space and enhanced comfort. Shoulder room (+1.46 inches) and elbow room (+1.10 inches) have been expanded, exceeding typical dimensions within its vehicle class. Clean, flowing lines create a cohesive and inviting atmosphere throughout the interior. A generous expanse of fine wood trim gracefully sweeps from the center console across the dashboard and into the doors, creating a sophisticated wrap-around effect. A selection of two wood trim options allows for personalization. Perfectly aligned with the roadster’s dual nature, the interior masterfully combines the understated sportiness of a high-performance vehicle with the comfortable and elegant ambiance expected of a luxurious touring car.
Classic SL Proportions, Contemporary Design
The designers of the latest SL generation have successfully honored tradition while injecting fresh perspectives and visions into its design. The result is a luxury sports car that is both stylishly sporty and elegantly refined, boasting balanced proportions that are unmistakably SL. The elongated hood flows into a compact, set-back passenger compartment, culminating in a wide and powerful rear end with a distinct racing-inspired character. Sculpted surfaces along the flanks are defined by a few carefully placed lines, conveying both power and serenity. Finely detailed elements, a striking rear design, and ventilation grilles with chromed fins – a nod to Mercedes-Benz’s dynamic heritage – all contribute to evoking the legendary SL lineage.
An upright, classic sports car radiator grille unmistakably identifies the new SL as a distinguished member of the contemporary Mercedes-Benz sports car family. The centrally positioned star, a modern reinterpretation of the iconic trademark, now extends into the center section with organically flowing contours.
Dynamically angled headlamps, positioned wide at the outer edges, frame the striking front end and give the new roadster its unique and recognizable face. Bi-xenon headlamps with active curve illumination, corner illuminating lamps, and Adaptive Highbeam Assist are standard features. These intelligent lighting functions, tailored to various driving and weather conditions, and activated based on the driving situation, significantly enhance the driver’s field of vision. Striking sidelights and the horizontal daytime running lamps integrated into the bumper’s outer edges utilize energy-efficient LED technology.
Retractable Hard Top with Optional MAGIC SKY CONTROL
The sixth generation SL continues the tradition of a retractable hard top, employing a space-saving electrohydraulic mechanism for swift transitions between coupe and roadster configurations. In contrast to its predecessor, the new SL offers two roof options: a standard glass roof or the innovative panoramic roof with MAGIC SKY CONTROL. This unique transparent roof can switch between light and dark at the touch of a button. In its light setting, it becomes virtually transparent, providing an open-air experience even in colder weather. When darkened, the roof offers welcome shade and effectively reduces interior heat buildup in bright sunlight. The frame of both roof versions is constructed from magnesium, contributing to a weight reduction of approximately 13 pounds compared to the previous model, lowering the vehicle’s center of gravity and further enhancing agility.
Engineers have refined the operating mechanism for both the roof and trunk lid, achieving a complete opening or closing cycle in under 20 seconds.
Aerodynamic Excellence: Setting New Standards
The design of the new SL is not only visually appealing but also engineered for exceptional aerodynamic performance, achieving top-in-class results in three critical areas:
- Minimal wind noise, approaching the levels of a closed sedan, enhancing cabin quietness and comfort.
- Superior open-air driving comfort, allowing the roof to remain down even at higher speeds without excessive buffeting.
- Reduced dirt accumulation on side windows, improving visibility and minimizing the need for frequent cleaning.
Two World Premieres: FrontBass and MAGIC VISION CONTROL
The 2013 SL upholds its reputation as a technological pioneer with two groundbreaking innovations:
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MAGIC VISION CONTROL: This intelligent and highly efficient wipe/wash system revolutionizes windshield cleaning. Innovative wiper blades precisely dispense washer fluid directly in front of the wiper blade via integrated channels – in both directions of wiper travel. This eliminates distracting water spray on the windshield and ensures consistently clear visibility. The system also prevents overspray into the passenger cabin when the roof is down. Heated wiper blades are standard, preventing snow and ice buildup and enabling the use of warm washer fluid even in cold temperatures.
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FrontBass system: This unique audio system ingeniously utilizes the hollow spaces within the aluminum structures ahead of the footwells as resonating chambers for the woofers. This marks the first time a sound system has been integrated directly into the body-in-white. The result is a clear, rich bass response that creates a concert hall-like ambience, even with the top down. This innovative layout also frees up valuable space in the doors and interior.
Both MAGIC VISION CONTROL and the FrontBass system are included as standard equipment in the new SL, highlighting Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to innovation and driver experience.
HANDS-FREE ACCESS: Swipe to Open
The HANDS-FREE ACCESS system is another Mercedes-Benz innovation enhancing convenience. It allows for hands-free operation of the trunk lid. The driver simply motions their foot in the area beneath the rear bumper. Uniquely, Mercedes-Benz offers a system that not only automatically opens the trunk lid but also closes it with a similar foot gesture.
The Safest Roadster in the World
The SL is engineered to be the world’s safest roadster, incorporating a collision-optimized aluminum structure, standard PRE-SAFE® and ATTENTION ASSIST systems, and further driver assistance technologies on par with the flagship S-Class. The rigid aluminum bodyshell forms a robust passenger compartment with precisely defined deformation zones at the front and rear. In the event of a rollover, passenger protection is provided by two roll-over bars and A-pillars constructed from a steel and aluminum composite. The restraint systems, including two-stage driver and front passenger airbags, have been further refined, and a head airbag covers the side impact area. An additional thorax airbag integrated into the seat backrest provides upper body protection in side impacts. New crash-responsive NECK-PRO head restraints, developed by Mercedes-Benz, are also standard equipment.
A key safety highlight is the standard PRE-SAFE® anticipatory occupant protection system. If the system detects an imminent accident, it proactively activates precautionary protective measures for vehicle occupants, ensuring seat belts and airbags are optimally positioned for maximum protection during an impact.
Post-impact safety measures further enhance the comprehensive safety concept and facilitate rapid assistance. Regardless of impact severity, the doors automatically unlock, interior lighting activates, and side windows lower slightly to improve ventilation. The steering wheel also moves upwards for easier egress.
Standard ATTENTION ASSIST and ADAPTIVE BRAKE
A unique suite of driver assistance systems in the new SL helps prevent accidents. These include the drowsiness detection system ATTENTION ASSIST and ADAPTIVE BRAKE, both standard features. ADAPTIVE BRAKE incorporates ABS, acceleration skid control (ASR), and active yaw control, offering both safety and convenience functions.
PRE-SAFE® Brake: Autonomous Braking Assistance
Optional DISTRONIC PLUS adaptive cruise control with PRE-SAFE® Brake, proven in other Mercedes-Benz models, is available. This system uses radar sensors to detect a serious risk of rear-end collision. PRE-SAFE® Brake warns the driver and can initiate autonomous partial or full braking if the driver fails to react, potentially preventing an accident or mitigating its severity. PRE-SAFE® can also activate occupant protection measures in conjunction with the braking intervention.
Active Parking Assist: Automated Parking Maneuvering
Active Parking Assist, a new feature for the SL, utilizes ultrasound sensors to identify suitable parking spaces and automatically steers the vehicle into the selected space, simplifying parking in urban environments.
Infotainment: COMAND with Internet Access
The new SL comes standard with the COMAND infotainment system featuring internet access and a DVD changer. It enables web browsing when the vehicle is stationary and provides access to Mercedes-Benz Apps, such as Google Local Search, Yelp, and Facebook, through a Mercedes-Benz mbrace2 subscription service (after a complimentary trial period). Route transfer from Google Maps and destination import from iPhone® and Android® phones via the Mercedes-Benz mbrace Mobile App are also supported.
The COMAND system features a high-resolution 7-inch TFT color display (800 x 480 pixels) positioned adjacent to the instrument cluster, designed to minimize driver distraction.
The 2013 SL550 became available in U.S. showrooms in spring, marking the arrival of a new icon.
To commemorate the launch, Mercedes-Benz offered a special “Edition 1” model for a limited time. The “Edition 1” boasted exclusive features including AMG 19-inch alloy wheels, designo exclusive leather with contrasting topstitching, AIRSCARF, the Harman/Kardon® Logic7® surround sound system, and designo crystal silver magno special paintwork exclusive to this edition. The interior featured designo classic red/black exclusive upholstery with designo black piano lacquer wood trim, further emphasizing its unique and luxurious character.
