First Look: The 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class

Mercedes-Benz has revealed the first teaser images of its 2013 SL Class, and from the specs that have been released so far, the new roadster looks set to live up to its Sporty and Lightweight namesake.

 

The 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL550 will be one of the highlights of the upcoming 2012 Detroit auto show, and from what we've seen, it appears to be a leaner, more streamlined upgrade of the current iteration. Almost entirely wrought from aluminium, the body is both tougher and lighter than its predecessor’s steel hull, weighing in at 3,900 pounds, a 275 pound reduction.

The by-now iconic triangular taillights, for instance, are angled sharper and come rigged with LED lighting. The long hood and fender vents now come with flashy chrome fins, but the most striking design overhaul are the two huge bi-xenon, fiber-optic headlights. Under the hood, the 2013 SL550 runs on a 4.6-liter, direct-injected, twin-turbo, V-8 engine; power is rated at 429 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque. Finally, the 2013 SL will feature "speed-sensitive, electromechanical Direct-Steering with variable ratios".

 

Exploring the cabin, you'll find luxe touches reminiscent of a true-blue supercar: the crosshair HVAC vents, gear shift knob, and metallic-faced instrument gauges mimic the SLS AMG; wood and leather upholstery are almost a given. The top will also be offered with two glass options—a standard glass roof or the whimsically named Magic Sky Control roof, which debuted in the SLK.

Another technological first: the 2013 SL will be the first Mercedes model to use Magic Vision Control, which features windshield wiper blades with integrated spray nozzles designed to wipe water away efficiently, preventing overspray; the Hands-Free Access also allows you to "swipe" your feet below the bumper to open and close the lid. Prospective new car owners: the 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL is set to hit U.S. showrooms early next year.

Courtesy of Luxury Insider

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