SL-Class

Segment
Compact

The next-generation 2022 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class is currently under development having been officially teased a few months ago. Mercedes pitched the new SL as "returning to its roots," hinting at a sportier roadster than the model it will replace. Much is still unknown about the new SL, but there are a few things we are aware of. For starters, this SL is being co-developed by the AMG department alongside the next-generation AMG GT.

We also know that the SL will ditch its folding hardtop roof in favor of a fabric one. And now some new spy shots taken outside of the Nurburgring provide a better view of the car's silhouette without the additional black cover. These same shots also give us our first glimpse of the interior.

The shots didn't reveal the entire cabin and were taken from far away, but act as our first peek inside the new SL. We can clearly spot a large central touchscreen like the one found in the new S-Class cabin. Unlike the S-Class, though, it looks like the SL's gauge cluster will be more contoured and integrated into the dashboard rather than looking like a tablet tacked on in front of the driver. We also spotted sporty round air vents surrounding the touchscreen that could be unique to the SL and GT.

The next-generation SL is also expected to have small but usable rear seats. This new SL has the significant role of replacing the old model, as well as the discontinued S-Class Coupe and Convertible, which were both four-seaters.

As with any new Mercedes model, the new SL will pack a variety of engines ranging from a 435 horsepower inline-six to an SL63 variant with a 612 hp twin-turbo V8. AMG is also expected to introduce a new SL73 model with an electric motor and V8 combination, yielding over 800 hp. A reveal should take place next year, followed by the next-generation GT.