2018 Mercedes-Benz SL Roadster
The Epitome of Open-Air Luxury and Performance
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©2017 Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. 303 Perimeter Center North, Atlanta, GA 30346. 1-800-FOR-MERCEDES. MBUSA.com. All illustrations and specifications are based on the latest product information available at the time of publication. Mercedes-Benz USA reserves the right to make changes without notice. Some vehicles may be shown with optional equipment or non-U.S. specifications. [FSC Certified Paper]
Image: A blue Mercedes-Benz SL roadster is parked in front of a modern architectural structure under a bright sky.
Image: Two Mercedes-Benz SL roadsters, one white and one black, are parked outdoors with a city skyline in the background.
Standard and available equipment may vary by model. Please see back of brochure.
The 2018 SL
The Mercedes-Benz SL is more than just a car; it's a symbol of automotive history and a cherished dream. Its allure stems from iconic design, exhilarating performance, and a profound connection with its drivers.
There are cars that hold a place in history. And cars that hold a place in your heart. There may be no car that does both like the Mercedes-Benz SL.
From a fleeting glimpse at a show to the thrill of driving, the SL has captured imaginations for generations. It offers a unique blend of celebrity, performance pedigree, and the pure joy of an open-roadster experience.
Image: The rear view of a blue Mercedes-Benz SL roadster driving on a road, showcasing its distinctive taillights and dual exhaust pipes.
Key Features
The 2018 SL is engineered for an exceptional driving experience, combining cutting-edge technology with timeless luxury.
Performance
Experience potent biturbo power delivered through seven or nine paddle-shifted gears, complemented by a symphonic exhaust note. Five DYNAMIC SELECT drive modes allow you to fine-tune the vehicle's reflexes from Comfort to Sport+.
- Biturbo power: V6, V8, or handcrafted AMG V8 and V12 engines
- Paddle-shifted 9-speed or AMG SPEEDSHIFT® 7-speed transmission
- DYNAMIC SELECT drive modes
- Sport exhaust with active sound
- Adaptive-damping or AMG fully active suspension
Design
Timeless style meets advanced aerodynamics. The power Panorama roof seamlessly transforms the SL from a coupe to an open-air roadster in seconds.
- 19" or mixed 19"/20" wheels in various designs
- Diamond-block grille with chrome pins (SL 450, SL 550)
- Power-retractable Panorama roof
- Eight cabin trim options, including fine woods and carbon fiber
- AMG Exterior Carbon Fiber and Night Styling Packages available (AMG SL 63 and AMG SL 65)
Safety
Groundbreaking safety advancements provide peace of mind, with protective and semi-autonomous systems enhancing comfort and confidence.
- Radar-based Active Brake Assist collision mitigation
- ATTENTION ASSIST® driver drowsiness detection
- Rearview camera
- Aluminum body structure with dual pop-up roll bars
- Active Blind Spot Assist and Active Lane Keeping Assists
- PRE-SAFE® PLUS rear-collision preparation
Luxury
The classic two-seat cockpit is appointed with state-of-the-art amenities designed to invigorate the senses and enhance the top-down driving pleasure.
- Heated seats with AIRSCARF® neck-level heating
- Intelligent digital dual-zone climate control
- Power windblocker
- Multicolor LED ambient lighting
- harman/kardon® or Bang & Olufsen® surround sound systems
- Panorama roof or variable-tint MAGIC SKY CONTROL®
Technology
User-friendly innovations keep you connected, engaged, and entertained, with intuitive controls for command and communication.
- COMAND® system with navigation and central controller
- Multifunction, flat-bottom sport steering wheel
- mbrace® featuring Mercedes me smartphone app with remote features, in-car Internet, and 4G LTE WiFi
- Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto
- Active LED headlamps and LED taillamps
Image: Close-up view of the front grille and headlight detail of a Mercedes-Benz SL.
Time Races On
The SL's performance heritage is deeply rooted in motorsport. From the legendary 1955 300 SLR racecar to modern innovations like twin-turbocharging, Direct Injection, and rapid-ignition systems, the SL consistently pushes the boundaries of automotive engineering. Its chassis design incorporates advanced suspension firsts, and the DYNAMIC SELECT system offers customizable driving dynamics.
When your story starts at the first checkered flag, and reads like a glossary of performance milestones, that's more than a history. It's a soul.
Image: Close-up of the rear of a blue Mercedes-Benz AMG SL, showing the distinctive quad exhaust tips and carbon fiber diffuser.
Time Stands Still
The SL's interior is a sanctuary of luxury and craftsmanship, designed for ultimate comfort and sensory enjoyment. Supple leathers, premium wood and carbon fiber trims, and customizable ambient lighting create a personalized driving environment.
Few cars inspire love at first sight like a roadster. No roadster makes the passion endure like an SL.
Image: Close-up of perforated leather seats with diamond stitching and an embossed AMG logo.
Image: Detail of a speaker grille in the car's interior.
Image: Close-up of the car's dashboard clock.
New-Age Enlightenment
The SL's seductive style is built upon an advanced aluminum body structure, offering a lightweight yet rigid foundation that enhances handling precision, safety, and efficiency. This tradition of innovation dates back to the iconic 1950s Gullwing and roadster models.
Innovation with Insight
An advanced network of sensors, including radar and cameras, monitors traffic and the surroundings, providing assistance for driving, lane changes, and parking.
Adaptive and Active Agility
Aluminum elements and sophisticated electronics work in harmony for composed handling and crisp feedback. The semi-active suspension adapts at each wheel, while a fully active suspension is standard on AMG models.
A Mode for Every Mood
The DYNAMIC SELECT system allows drivers to tailor the vehicle's performance characteristics, adjusting throttle mapping, shift points, and suspension damping through five selectable modes.
Foresight and Fortitude
The body shell is constructed from stamped, cast, thermoformed, and extruded aluminum, resulting in a lighter yet more rigid structure. The windshield frame features narrow, sturdy pillars.
Image: An exposed view of the Mercedes-Benz SL's aluminum body structure, showing its chassis and suspension components.
Passion That Can't Be Contained
The SL masterfully balances classic roadster proportions with advanced aerodynamics, offering a refined experience whether the hardtop is up or folded away. The interior provides luxurious comfort while connecting occupants with the open air.
Four Roadsters for the Open Road
The SL lineup offers four distinct models, each featuring biturbo power and advanced engineering:
- SL 450: 362 hp 3.0L V6 biturbo, 0-60 mph in 4.9 seconds.
- SL 550: 449 hp 4.7L V8 biturbo, 0-60 mph in 4.3 seconds.
- AMG SL 63: Handcrafted 5.5L V8 biturbo, 577 hp, 0-60 mph in 4.0 seconds.
- AMG SL 65: Handcrafted 6.0L V12 biturbo, 621 hp, 0-60 mph in 3.9 seconds.
All models feature DYNAMIC SELECT, with AMG models offering additional modes and performance enhancements like Torque Vectoring Brake and ESP® Curve Dynamic Assist. Active Body Control (ABC) with CURVE function is available for superior cornering dynamics.
Multiple Ways to Take in the Sky
The power hardtop retracts in under 20 seconds, with an automatic trunk partition and rear window pivot for compact storage. The power trunklid with HANDS-FREE ACCESS is available for easier loading.
Image: A red Mercedes-Benz SL roadster parked on a textured surface with a modern building facade in the background.
Extrovertible
The SL's power hardtop operates with athletic grace, retracting acrobatically into the trunk. The standard Panorama roof offers an open-air feel, while the optional MAGIC SKY CONTROL® allows for variable tinting of the glass roof panel.
Visionary Innovation
Active LED headlamps adapt their beams for optimal visibility. LED Daytime Running Lamps and taillamps enhance recognition. The standard rearview camera includes active on-screen steering guidelines. MAGIC VISION CONTROL® provides precise windshield cleaning without overspray.
Extended Play
Enjoy top-down driving year-round with features like dual-zone climate control, AIRSCARF® neck-level heating, and ventilated seats. Advanced audio systems include harman/kardon® LOGIC7® or Bang & Olufsen® BeoSound™. COMAND® infotainment with navigation, Apple CarPlay™, and Android Auto ensures seamless connectivity.
Protective Instincts
The SL is equipped with comprehensive safety systems, including pop-up roll bars, Active Brake Assist, ATTENTION ASSIST®, and the Driver Assistance Package with DISTRONIC® cruise control and Steering Pilot. Active Blind Spot Assist and Active Lane Keeping Assist further enhance safety.
On the road, as in racing, safety is an integral part of performance. The SL leads like a champion, and looks after you like a guardian.
Image: Close-up of the LED headlights of a Mercedes-Benz SL.
Image: Side view of a Mercedes-Benz SL roadster.
Image: Interior view of a Mercedes-Benz SL, showing the dashboard, steering wheel, and center console.
AMG Driving Performance
Since 1967, AMG has transformed Mercedes-Benz vehicles into championship racecars, bringing track-bred passion to the street. The SL embodies this legacy, offering unparalleled performance and driving dynamics.
A Pair of Roadsters, Born from Dual Racing Legacies
The AMG SL 63 and AMG SL 65 are born from racing heritage, featuring handcrafted biturbo V8 and V12 engines respectively. They are equipped with high-performance brakes, AMG suspension systems, and distinctive AMG wheels.
Competitive Spirit, Superlative Specs
The AMG Performance Suspension, based on Active Body Control (ABC), actively counteracts body roll. High-performance composite and optional ceramic composite brakes provide exceptional stopping power.
50 Years AMG
Image: A dark grey Mercedes-Benz AMG SL roadster parked on a cobblestone-like surface with a modern building facade in the background.
Image: Close-up of the interior of an AMG Mercedes-Benz, showing sport seats with red seat belts and stitching, and an AMG steering wheel.
Specifications and Customization
Build your own 2018 Mercedes-Benz SL at MBUSA.com/SL.
Specifications Overview
| Specification | SL 450 | SL 550 | AMG SL 63 | AMG SL 65 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 3.0L V6 biturbo | 4.7L V8 biturbo | Handcrafted AMG 5.5L V8 biturbo | Handcrafted AMG 6.0L V12 biturbo |
| Power | 362 hp | 449 hp | 577 hp | 621 hp |
| Torque | 369 lb-ft | 516 lb-ft | 664 lb-ft | 738 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 9G-TRONIC 9-speed | 9G-TRONIC 9-speed | AMG SPEEDSHIFT® MCT 7-speed | AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7G-TRONIC 7-speed |
| 0-60 mph | 4.9 sec | 4.3 sec | 4.0 sec | 3.9 sec |
| Wheels | 19" 5-spoke | 19" AMG 5-spoke | 19" AMG 10-spoke | 19"/20" front/rear AMG forged 10-spoke |
| Suspension | 4-wheel multilink w/adaptive damping | 4-wheel multilink w/adaptive damping | AMG Performance Suspension (ABC) | AMG Performance Suspension (ABC) w/2-stage adjustment |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive | Rear-wheel drive | Rear-wheel drive | Rear-wheel drive |
Key Standard Features
Performance and Efficiency
- ECO Start/Stop system
- DYNAMIC SELECT / AMG DYNAMIC SELECT
- Sport Exhaust System / AMG Sport Exhaust System
- Carbon fiber engine cover (AMG models)
- Perforated front brakes / AMG High-performance Compound Braking System
- Torque Vectoring Brake / ESP® Curve Dynamic Assist
- AMG limited-slip differential (AMG models)
Comfort and Convenience
- Heated power seats w/3-position memory
- Ventilated seats (Optional)
- Active multicontour seats with massage (Optional)
- AIRSCARF® neck-level heating system
- Power tilt/telescoping steering column
- Multifunction steering wheel / AMG Sport steering wheel
- Power retractable hardtop
- Panorama roof / MAGIC SKY CONTROL® (Optional)
- Electric trunk partition
- Power windblocker
- Dual-zone automatic climate control
- AMG illuminated door sills (AMG models)
Safety and Security
- Active Brake Assist / Active Brake Assist with Cross-Traffic Function
- ATTENTION ASSIST®
- PRE-SAFE® / PRE-SAFE® PLUS
- Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
- Adaptive braking technology
- Emergency-sensing Brake Assist (BAS®)
- Advanced Tire Pressure Monitoring System
- Rearview camera / Parking Assist with Parking Pilot
- Active Blind Spot Assist / Active Lane Keeping Assist
- Distance Pilot DISTRONIC® and Steering Pilot
- 8 air bags
- Dual automatic pop-up roll bars
- Active LED headlamps
Entertainment and Navigation
- High-resolution 7" color central screen
- COMAND® navigation with 3 years of map updates
- 5 years of SiriusXM Traffic and Weather service
- High-resolution color multifunction display
- Dashtop analog clock / IWC® "Ingenieur" design (AMG models)
- harman/kardon® LOGIC7® sound system / Bang & Olufsen® BeoSound™ Premium Sound System
- FrontBass® system
- Bluetooth® audio streaming
- Dual USB ports
- Smartphone Integration with Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto
- 5 years of Mercedes-Benz mbrace® Connect services
Dimensions
| Dimension | SL 450 | SL 550 | AMG SL 63 | AMG SL 65 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wheelbase | 101.7" | 101.7" | 101.7" | 101.7" |
| Overall length | 182.3" | 182.3" | 182.3" | 182.3" |
| Overall height | 51.2" | 51.2" | 51.2" | 51.2" |
| Overall width (w/mirrors) | 82.6" | 82.6" | 82.6" | 82.6" |
| Curb weight | 3,825 lbs | 4,012 lbs | 4,123 lbs | 4,222 lbs |
| Headroom | 39.1" | 39.1" | 39.1" | 39.1" |
| Legroom | 53.6" | 53.6" | 53.6" | 53.6" |
| Shoulder room | 55.5" | 55.5" | 55.5" | 55.5" |
| Cargo capacity (top up) | 13.5 cu ft | 13.5 cu ft | 13.5 cu ft | 13.5 cu ft |
| Cargo capacity (top down) | 8.5 cu ft | 8.5 cu ft | 8.5 cu ft | 8.5 cu ft |
Option Packages & Individual Options
Option Packages: Premium 1 Package, Driver Assistance Package, AMG Exterior Carbon Fiber Package, AMG Exterior Night Styling Package.
Individual Options: Active Body Control (ABC) with CURVE function, AMG Performance Suspension, Ventilated seats, AIRSCARF®, Active multicontour seats, HANDS-FREE ACCESS trunk closer, KEYLESS-GO®, Ceramic Composite Brakes, MAGIC SKY CONTROL®, harman/kardon® or Bang & Olufsen® sound systems, various steering wheels (Wood/leather, AMG Nappa/DINAMICA), seat belts, wheel options, and upholstery choices.
Upholstery, Paintwork, Trim, and Wheels
A wide array of upholstery options, including Leather, Nappa leather, and designo Exclusive Nappa leather, are available in various colors. A selection of premium paint finishes and interior trim materials (wood, aluminum, carbon fiber) allows for extensive personalization. Multiple wheel designs, from standard 5-spoke to AMG forged options, are offered.
Image: A montage showing different upholstery textures and colors, paint color swatches, trim material samples, and various wheel designs.
Mercedes me & Genuine Accessories
Mercedes me
The Mercedes me ecosystem connects you to your vehicle and the Mercedes-Benz world. The Mercedes me app and mbrace® services offer remote control, vehicle monitoring, concierge services, and access to exclusive benefits.
- Connect: Remote lock/unlock, vehicle location, status monitoring via smartphone.
- Assist: Connect with dealers, schedule service, access how-to videos, and roadside assistance.
- Finance: Manage Mercedes-Benz Financial Services accounts and explore offers.
- Inspire: Access exclusive perks, partner resort offers, and featured road trips.
Genuine Accessories
Enhance your SL with Genuine Mercedes-Benz Accessories, engineered for quality, appearance, and fit. Options include alloy wheels, AMG heritage items, cargo solutions, floor mats, and more, ensuring your vehicle remains 100% Mercedes-Benz.
Image: Close-up of a Mercedes-Benz SL wheel.
Image: Stack of Mercedes-Benz branded luggage.
Image: Detail of a car's interior door handle and speaker.
Image: Close-up of an AMG wheel with the AMG logo.
Endnotes Summary: The endnotes provide detailed information regarding optional equipment, tire specifications, safety system limitations, mbrace® service terms, navigation system usage, audio system details, and warranty information. Drivers are advised to consult the Operator's Manual for comprehensive details and warnings on all features and systems.
