Mercedes SL

Text: Luke Madden / Photos: Automedia

09th December 2009

Here's a glimpse into the future of the Mercedes SL! Hiding underneath this camouflage is the next generation roadster, due to be released in 2012.

In profile, the new SL sports similar proportions to its predecessor but looks to be riding lower and stands a couple of inches wider.

Inspired by the flagship SLS AMG supercar, the car will come complete with a new, larger and more upright grille as well as a new set of stylish headlights.

Similarities to the SLS AMG don't end there either;  underneath the bodywork the new SL will make use of the aluminium space-frame featured on the £150,000 supercar.

As well as being exceptionally rigid, the lightweight chassis should help the SL fulfil the 'Sport-Light' promises made by its name.

Again, taking cues from its bigger brother, the new car will be fitted with a seven-speed dual clutch transmission, as well as the suspension and many of the electronic systems of the SLS.

Under the bonnet, expect an updated range of V6 and V8 engines, offering boosted economy and power over the current SL.

Topping the range will be a performance based AMG model, launched shortly after the initial release.

With a lighter frame and boosted power, the new AMG will shave a few tenths of the current model's 4.6 second sprint time.

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