Mercedes welcomes another new model to its SL Roadster range. The newly launched Mercedes-AMG SL 43 is now the entry-level model in the SL range. The SL 43 sits below the SL 55 and SL 63 that were launched at the end of 2021. Mercedes has slightly changed the design and introduced F1-derived technology in the car that sets it apart from its siblings. So what’s all the fuss about new F1 tech in a roadster? Let’s find out.
Mercedes-AMG SL 43 Engine
Unlike the 4.0-litre V8 Biturbo engine in SL 55 & 63, the entry-level SL 43 is a 2.0-litre turbocharged inline 4-cylinder motor. It has a new inclusion of a 48V supported electric exhaust gas turbocharger derived directly from the Mercedes-AMG F1 car. The SL 43 is claimed to be the first road-legal car to feature this tech.
The turbocharger is driven by both the exhaust gas and the electric motor depending on the situation. The electric motor can spin the compressor wheel before the exhaust gas does the job. This improves the throttle response vastly and reduced turbo lag.
The total output of the engine is 376 hp and 480 Nm of torque. The new motor adds an additional 14 hp boost when it is necessary. The self-charging motor stores the boost to deploy depending on the driving. Even though the engine capacity is half compared to the performance models, the SL 43 is not to be neglected. AMG’s super quick 9-speed automatic transmission helps the SL 43 to go from 0-100 in just 4.9 seconds. The top speed is limited to 170 mph or 273 kmph.
Mercedes-AMG SL 43 Design
With a 2+2 seating configuration, the SL 43 is one good looking convertible. You can’t spot major design changes compared to the SL 55 & 63. The front and rear aprons are slightly redesigned. The exhaust is rounded off instead of the angeled squared ones.
The interior combines both luxury and sportiness to its finest. The driver-focused cockpit gets the new 11.9-inch infotainment system with a tilt function to adjust for sun glares. It also features a 12.3-inch driver’s display and a head-up display. It does get all the features seen in the higher trims. But the most interesting feature for a convertible is the Mercedes Airscarf feature. It helps to direct warm air around the head and neck of front passengers (When the roof’s down and the weather turns chilly).
Clever optimization has helped to improve the overall space of the cabin. With 2 adult seats in the second row, the car is practical for everyday use and long-distance travel.
The Mercedes-AMG SL 43 will go on sale sometime this year and the price is yet to be announced. The last generation SLs didn’t make it to our market. The chances of the new SL range coming to India are sleek but let’s hope for the best.
Which Mercedes-AMG SL would you prefer to see in India? The entry-level SL 43 or the high-performance SL 55 & SL 63? Let us know in the comments.
FAQs
1. What does’SL’ stand for in Mercedes-AMG Cars?
The SL in Mercedes stands for Sport Leicht which translates to Sport Light.
2. Does Mercedes-Benz sell electric vehicles in India?
Yes, Mercedes-Benz sells the all-electric EQC SUV and the EQS sedan in India.
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