2022 MERCEDES-BENZ SL-CLASS | W1KVK8AB4NF001533

Body Styles

The 2022 SL-Class (R232) marks a return to form as a 2+2 roadster with a fabric soft-top roof, replacing the previous generation’s hardtop mechanism. This change saves over 46 kg (100 lbs) and lowers the center of gravity, improving agility. The new SL also becomes the first generation developed entirely by AMG, bringing sharper dynamics while preserving grand tourer comfort.

The long hood, short rear deck, wide hips, and aggressive Panamericana grille reaffirm its classic GT proportions. Optional AMG Night Packages add gloss black exterior trim, while Aerodynamics Package elements further boost downforce with active front and rear aero.

With the rear seats suitable for occasional passengers or extra luggage space, the new SL remains practical enough for weekend touring, while still looking every bit the boulevard cruiser or autobahn stormer.

Model Name Meaning (Manufacturer)

The “SL” stands for “Sport Leicht” — German for “Sport Lightweight.” Originally coined in the early 1950s for the 300 SL “Gullwing,” the name has since become a pillar of Mercedes-Benz heritage. Over the decades, SL evolved from a motorsport-inspired lightweight coupe to a luxury roadster focused on prestige and innovation.

This newest R232 generation reintegrates that performance-first DNA, developed by Mercedes-AMG with no direct Mercedes-Benz variant. It marks the return of the SL to its sporting roots, now with all-wheel drive and track-capable suspension technology. The SL 63, in particular, carries the same drivetrain principles as the AMG GT.

Model Name Meaning (Languages)

“SL” is universally understood and remains untranslated in every market. The two-letter designation has become synonymous with refined open-air driving, combining elegance with motorsport undertones. The simplicity of the name — along with its connection to German engineering and F1-derived technology — ensures the SL’s recognition across languages and cultures. In the United States, Middle East, and China, the SL name carries prestige and status, while in Europe, it represents a fusion of luxury and performance. The new model’s AMG roots also lend it a more assertive connotation than ever before.

Body & Interior Colors and Rims

The SL-Class offers a curated but expressive exterior palette: Obsidian Black, Cirrus Silver, Alpine Grey, Hyper Blue Metallic, and Manufaktur options such as Kalahari Gold Magno or Opalite White Bright. Two-tone or matte finishes are available via Manufaktur, including gloss black contrast roofs or red soft tops.

Inside, the SL merges AMG sportiness with S-Class luxury. Interior trims include Nappa leather, DINAMICA microfiber, and AMG carbon fiber or piano black lacquer. Seat colors range from Sienna Brown, Macchiato Beige, Black, Red Pepper, to Tartufo, with optional diamond-quilted stitching and AMG illuminated sill plates.

The central feature is an adjustable-angle 11.9” touchscreen, combined with a 12.3” digital cluster housed in a turbine-inspired dashboard. AMG Performance Seats with integrated headrests and optional massage/heating/cooling are available.

Wheel options range from 20” twin 5-spoke AMG alloys to 21” forged multi-spoke designs, available in matte black, silver, or titanium grey, often paired with red AMG brake calipers and Michelin Pilot Sport tires.

Top Expensive Options

• AMG Carbon Ceramic Brake System: ~$8,950
• Burmester High-End 3D Surround Sound: ~$4,500
• Manufaktur Exclusive Paint Finish: ~$6,000
• AMG Track Package (bucket seats + harness): ~$5,000
• AMG Performance Seats with Massage & Ventilation: ~$3,500
• Aerodynamics Package (active front splitter + diffuser): ~$2,700
• Carbon Fiber Exterior Package: ~$4,800
• Illuminated AMG Grille Badge: ~$650
• Warmth & Comfort Package (heated armrests/steering wheel): ~$1,800
• Night Package II (blacked-out emblems and trim): ~$1,200

vs Competitors

The modern SL-Class now competes directly with the Porsche 911 Cabriolet, BMW M8 Convertible, Aston Martin DB11 Volante, and Lexus LC 500 Convertible. Compared to the 911, the SL offers more interior comfort, usable rear seats, and a softer GT ride, but sacrifices a bit of handling precision. Against the M8, the SL feels lighter, more emotional, and more exclusive in character.

The Aston Martin DB11 offers equal beauty and theater, but the SL counters with modern tech, better build quality, and AWD capability. The Lexus LC matches the SL’s drama and V8 smoothness, but lacks the AMG’s raw power and digital performance toolkit.

What sets the SL apart is its dual identity: it’s equally at home cruising the Riviera or attacking a mountain pass, thanks to its AMG-developed chassis, adaptive suspension, and electronically-controlled AWD. It’s the most dynamically capable SL ever made.

Fun Fact

Unlike previous SLs, which were developed by Mercedes-Benz and offered in AMG-tuned variants, the R232 SL is the first ever to be developed entirely by AMG from the ground up. It shares its platform with the next-generation AMG GT but is the only one to offer a fabric roof and 2+2 layout.

And for the first time in SL history, all models now come with standard all-wheel drive (4MATIC+), transforming the SL from a luxury cruiser into an all-weather high-performance roadster — one capable of 0–100 km/h in under 3.6 seconds, while still offering heated neck vents and massaging seats.