We followed the development of the new 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL for a while now, having recently spied a small camouflage prototype that made it possible for us to see many aspects of the design hardtop roadster.
Of course, as you get closer to the debut, which takes place next year at the Detroit Motor Show in January, more information is coming out. Earlier this week, the German magazine Auto Motor und Sport has published a series of what appears to be the official photo Next SL, body-in-white, as well as some very interesting details.
The images suggest that the brand new luxury roadster will keep the familiar silhouette SL, while adopting the styling cues of other Mercedes models like the square nose which is the brand new "face" and SLK is "Control Magic Sky" strong retractable roof.
According to AMS, the new SL roadster is much lighter than the current model, although it is slightly larger in all dimensions. This was achieved using almost all-aluminum frame that weighs only 254 kilograms (560 pounds) to reduce the total weight of 140 kg (309 lbs) with obvious benefits in terms of handling, fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.
The new SL is powered by a new generation of engines that have fuel injection and automatic stop-start system. Line-up consists of a twin-turbo 4.7-liter V8 with an output of 435HP and V6, and possibly V12 units.
To develop regional versions topping AMG SL 63 AMG is powered by a new 5.5-liter twin-turbo V8, which is said to churn out 571HP.
The interior will follow the direction of latest model Mercedes with highlights such as the round mouths surrounded by chrome rings and a large screen in the center console. Expect all the usual systems and active and passive safety of the vast array of Mercedes.
In addition, SL 2013 introduces two new features. The first is the "Magic Vision Control", wipers, washer fluid, which includes, and is said to be much more efficient than conventional units. The second is a new sound, which uses a space-space aluminum structure of the foot, as the resonance chamber to produce more bass.
Story References:
AMS PHOTO GALLERY
