We recently reported on the rumors that Mercedes would be bringing the new SL65 AMG to next month's New York Auto Show. Now we have official confirmation that the range-topping Merc is set to return to the SL lineup with the first cars slated to hit US showrooms in November after making its world debut. Redesigned and fitted with a twin-turbocharged 6.0-liter V12 engine, the SL65 AMG will join the V8-powered SL550 and SL63 AMG, and is likely to be priced around the $200,000 mark.
Contrary to our initial assumptions, the 6.0-liter V12 has been made more potent courtesy of new manifolds and blowers coupled with an AMG sport exhaust system. Output now stands at 621hp, up from 604, while torque remains at 738lb-ft. The AMG-tuned V12 is now mated to an AMG Speedshift Plus seven-speed sequential automatic, replacing the five-speed in the previous model, and the result is a 0-62mph time of 3.9 seconds and a top speed of 186mph. Combined with a start/stop function and the shedding of 374 pounds thanks to its all-aluminum bodyshell technology, fuel economy has improved by 17 percent.
Upgrades to the chassis include a new electromechanical speed-sensitive sports steering, high performance brakes, AMG Sports Suspension, and optional AMG carbon-ceramic brakes. AMG five-spoke polished alloys painted titanium grey come as standard with matte-black AMG forged alloys also available. To distinguish the V12 from its V8 sibling, there's a unique twin-blade radiator grille, a front skirt with bigger air intakes, unique side sills and a smattering of high-gloss chrome accents. The cockpit, adorned in monochromatic or two-tone nappa leather, boasts a glut of exclusive design features.
There's a special AMG diamond pattern on the electrically-adjustable AMG sports seats, headliner and door panels, while carbon-fiber and wood trim features throughout the cabin. Other interior amenities include a Bang & Olufsen BeSound AMG surround-sound audio system, an AMG performance steering wheel, multicolor ambient lighting, embossed AMG emblems on the seat backrests, AIRSCARF neck-level heating, and a host of advanced safety technology.
