Skip advert
Advertisement

Mercedes SL review (2002-2011)

The amazing SL coupe-convertible remains a first-rate GT, particularly since the latest round of revisions.

Mercedes-Benz SL
Overall Auto Express rating

3.0

How we review cars
RRP
£239,205 £239,205
Find your Mercedes SL
Compare deals from trusted partners on this car and previous models.
Or are you looking to sell your car?
Value my car
Fast, no-nonsense car selling
Value my car

The amazing SL coupe-convertible remains a first-rate GT, particularly since the latest round of revisions. You'll be hard-pushed to spot the redesigned front section and new rear lights, but then Mercedes was wise not to spoil such a well-balanced shape. The big changes happened underneath. Out went old V6 and V8 engines, replaced with much more efficient units; the SL 350's 272bhp V6 is 11 per cent more powerful, while the 388bhp SL 500's V8 is over 25 per cent faster in the 0-62mph dash. Either is available with an enhanced version of the standard seven-speed auto gearbox, called 7G-Trionic Sport, which introduces F1-style paddle shifts and 30 per cent faster gearchanges. And once again heading the range is the awesome SL 600, with a V12 biturbo engine. With 517bhp, it zaps to 60mph in just 4.5 seconds. Astounding.

It's even better to drive, too. 'ABC' active suspension, fitted to SL 500 and SL 600 models, offers body movements that are reduced by 60 per cent during 'spirited' driving. The steering is also more direct and the braking systems of V6 and V8 models have been uprated in consideration of their additional power. In any guise, the SL is something of a revelation to drive, only enhanced by all the mechanical changes. Quick yet effortless, comfortable yet involving. The interior is roomy for two as well and the roof a work of art - particularly if you choose the optional glass setup. It's also practical, feels as if it's hewn from solid and turns heads without ever appearing brash. A supercar in all but name, it's not cheap, but you'll know exactly why it's not when you see one, never mind drive one.

Engines, performance and drive

MPG, CO2 and Running Costs

Interior, design and technology

Practicality, comfort and boot space

Reliability and Safety

Skip advert
Advertisement

Which Is Best

Cheapest

  • Name
    Maybach SL 680 Monogram Series 2dr Auto
  • Gearbox type
    Semi-auto
  • RRP
    £239,205
Select car

Most Economical

  • Name
    Maybach SL 680 Monogram Series 2dr Auto
  • Gearbox type
    Semi-auto
  • RRP
    £239,205
Select car

Fastest

  • Name
    Maybach SL 680 Monogram Series 2dr Auto
  • Gearbox type
    Semi-auto
  • RRP
    £239,205
Select car

New & used car deals

Toyota Yaris Cross

Toyota Yaris Cross

RRP £26,495Avg. savings £1,672 off RRP*Used from £16,100
Hyundai Tucson

Hyundai Tucson

RRP £29,820Avg. savings £4,935 off RRP*Used from £13,090
Audi A3

Audi A3

RRP £26,295Avg. savings £3,274 off RRP*Used from £10,395
Kia Sportage

Kia Sportage

RRP £28,065Avg. savings £2,474 off RRP*Used from £15,965
* Average savings are calculated daily based on the best dealer prices on Auto Express vs manufacturer RRP
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

New Xiaomi YU7 2025 review: a world-beating new EV to worry the establishment
Xiaomi YU7 - front cornering

New Xiaomi YU7 2025 review: a world-beating new EV to worry the establishment

BMW or Mercedes would do anything to keep the new Xiaomi YU7 from sale in the UK and Europe, and this is why
Road tests
14 Jul 2025
Electric Car Grant in detail: Which cars will get the UK EV discount?
Auto Express creative director Darren Wilson charging the Lexus RZ

Electric Car Grant in detail: Which cars will get the UK EV discount?

The government has set out its plan to help reduce the cost of affordable EVs by introducing a new £3,750 Electric Car Grant for new EVs sold under £3…
News
18 Jul 2025
Electric Mercedes CLA Shooting Brake will keep going long after rivals need to stop
Mercedes CLA Shooting Brake - front action

Electric Mercedes CLA Shooting Brake will keep going long after rivals need to stop

The second of Merc’s new-era EVs is here in the form of an attractive estate with a huge range
News
14 Jul 2025