2018 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class: A Timeless Grand Tourer
The 2018 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class continues its legacy as a sophisticated and powerful grand touring convertible, blending exhilarating performance with luxurious comfort. For the 2018 model year, the SL-Class received a significant styling refresh, giving it a more aggressive and modern appearance, while retaining its iconic silhouette. This generation of the SL-Class offers a compelling package for those seeking a premium open-top driving experience.
Highlights
-
Engine Options:
- SL450: Powered by a potent 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine, producing 362 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. This engine provides brisk acceleration and refined performance, making it more than capable for spirited driving.
- SL550: Features a more robust 4.7-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine, delivering 449 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque. This V8 offers effortless acceleration and a more visceral driving experience, characteristic of true grand tourers.
- AMG SL63: The pinnacle of performance, the SL63 boasts a hand-built 5.5-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine, producing an impressive 577 horsepower and 664 lb-ft of torque. This powerhouse is mated to a 7-speed AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT transmission for lightning-fast gear changes.
- AMG SL65: For the ultimate in extravagance and power, the SL65 is equipped with a monstrous 6.0-liter twin-turbocharged V12 engine, generating a colossal 621 horsepower and 738 lb-ft of torque. This engine offers unparalleled smoothness and immense torque, defining the peak of Mercedes-AMG's V12 prowess.
-
Safety Features:
- ATTENTION ASSIST®: Continuously monitors driving behavior and detects signs of driver fatigue or distraction, alerting the driver with visual and audible cues to encourage them to take a break.
- Active Brake Assist: A collision mitigation system that can warn the driver of potential collisions with other vehicles, cyclists, or pedestrians and can also apply the brakes automatically if the driver fails to react, helping to prevent or reduce the severity of accidents.
- PRE-SAFE®: A suite of preventative safety technologies that can anticipate and react to certain accident scenarios. It can tighten seatbelts, move seats to a more optimal position, and close windows and the sunroof to prepare occupants for an impact.
- Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC®: An adaptive cruise control system that maintains a set distance from the vehicle ahead, automatically adjusting speed in traffic and even bringing the car to a complete stop and then resuming motion.
- Active Lane Keeping Assist: Detects unintentional lane departure and can steer the vehicle back into its lane by applying braking to one side of the car.
-
Trim Summary:
- SL450: The entry point, offering a balanced blend of luxury and performance with its V6 engine and a comprehensive list of standard luxury and safety features.
- SL550: Steps up the performance with the more powerful V8 engine and typically includes even more premium amenities and advanced driver-assistance systems.
- AMG SL63: A dedicated performance variant, featuring a significantly more potent V8 engine, sport-tuned suspension, braking, and aerodynamic enhancements for a true AMG driving experience.
- AMG SL65: The ultimate expression of the SL-Class, boasting the mighty V12 engine and all the performance and luxury accoutrements that come with it.
-
Other Notable Aspects:
- Retractable Hardtop: The SL-Class features a sophisticated retractable hardtop that can be raised or lowered in approximately 16 seconds at speeds up to 25 mph, allowing for seamless transition between open-air and enclosed driving.
- AIRSCARF®: An innovative system that blows warm air from the headrests, allowing for comfortable top-down driving even in cooler temperatures.
- COMAND® Infotainment System: A user-friendly and feature-rich infotainment system that controls navigation, audio, climate, and other vehicle functions.
- Premium Interior: The cabin is meticulously crafted with high-quality materials, including premium leather upholstery, real wood or carbon fiber trim, and ambient lighting, exuding an atmosphere of opulence.
- Sporty yet Comfortable Ride: The SL-Class strikes an excellent balance between a sporting feel and the refined ride comfort expected of a Mercedes-Benz, making it suitable for both spirited drives and long-distance journeys.
What to Expect
Ownership of a 2018 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class is characterized by a premium experience. Expect a vehicle that is incredibly refined and comfortable for daily driving or extended road trips. The build quality is exceptional, with a cabin that feels solid and impeccably put together.
Maintenance: Like any luxury performance vehicle, the SL-Class will require regular maintenance to keep it in peak condition. This includes scheduled oil changes, filter replacements, brake inspections, and tire rotations. Mercedes-Benz vehicles are known for their advanced engineering, which can sometimes translate to higher labor costs and more specialized parts compared to mainstream brands. Budgeting for routine servicing at a Mercedes-Benz authorized dealership or a reputable independent specialist is advisable.
Insurance: Insurance premiums for a 2018 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class are generally higher than for a typical sedan or coupe due to its luxury status, powerful engines, and higher performance capabilities. Factors such as the specific trim level (higher performance models will be more expensive to insure), your driving record, age, location, and chosen coverage levels will all influence the final cost. Obtaining quotes from multiple insurance providers is recommended to find the best coverage at a competitive rate.
Potential Considerations
- Rear Seat Space: While technically a 2+2 convertible, the rear seats in the SL-Class are very small and best suited for occasional use by children or as additional storage space. Adults will find them cramped.
- Infotainment Complexity: While the COMAND® system is feature-rich, some users may find its interface and menu structure to be a bit complex to navigate initially, requiring a learning curve.
- Ride Comfort vs. Sportiness: While the SL-Class offers a good balance, some might find the AMG variants' suspension to be on the firmer side for everyday commuting, particularly on rougher road surfaces. The standard SL450 and SL550 offer a more compliant ride.
- Trunk Space: The retractable hardtop mechanism, when deployed, significantly reduces trunk space, limiting the amount of luggage you can carry for longer trips.
Overall Summary
The 2018 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class is a supremely accomplished grand touring convertible that continues to impress with its potent engine options, luxurious interior, and sophisticated technology. It offers a compelling blend of exhilarating performance and effortless comfort, making it a desirable choice for those who appreciate timeless style and a premium open-air driving experience. While it may have some practical limitations like its small rear seats and reduced trunk space with the top down, its overall package delivers a refined and enjoyable ownership experience for discerning drivers.