SL-Class (R231) [Official] Mercedes-Benz SL (R231)


The Mercedes-Benz R231 is the sixth generation SL roadster, replacing the R230. Released in March 2012, it uses Mercedes-Benz's new 4.7 litre twin turbo V8 engine with a power output of 435 PS (320 kW; 429 hp). It was succeeded by the Mercedes-AMG R232. Production March 2011–2020. Model years: 2012–2020.
The name SL is far more important IMO than SLS, GT or even SLR due to the long list of beautiful cars associated with it. What a pity Mercedes paid least attention (figuratively) design-wise for the venerable nameplate. Even cheesy aftermarket upgrades of the front end look better than the dangling floppy grille by Merc designers on non AMGs SL that appears to be a five minute design exercise. Anyway, I am hoping like others that the facelift will come soon. I am sure it will look better because that's the only possibility.
 
I just remember how ugly this car is, arguably the ugliest car in MB's lineup.

I can see many people who may have once considered the SL going for the S coupe instead.
 
Today's Autobild cover shows a completely redesigned SL. I don't know if it is the LCI or the new one.
 
Here is the reaction to that new SL.
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An about-face from MB? It is the right thing to do, but also would speak loudly (if this is indeed true) of the wrong direction the design team took.
 
Very subtle things can make a big difference. The car has presence.
The silouhette is very nice though, and should remain.The headlight shape is awkward and conflicting with the front end lines.

The interior has nice materials but is a mess. The center console is poorly designed and the big round center vents need to go. I imagine it will get the tablet screen, which meens they should put in vertical vents that seperate the screen and the info control panel.
 
The interior has nice materials but is a mess. The center console is poorly designed and the big round center vents need to go. I imagine it will get the tablet screen, which meens they should put in vertical vents that seperate the screen and the info control panel.

It could mean a lot of things. I think they're going for a tablet too, but I also think they will completely redesign the whole dash in the style of S/S coupe with those new fancy buttons.

The seats should stay, they are crazy good (y)
 
@tennmb, from a sales perspective, how has the response been on the new SL? Have you had many customers upgrading from the old SL to the new SL?
 
The interior has nice materials but is a mess. The center console is poorly designed and the big round center vents need to go. I imagine it will get the tablet screen, which meens they should put in vertical vents that seperate the screen and the info control panel.

I would not hold your breath for vertical vents, seeing as how that design element isn't found in their sports cars. Even the new AMG GT has round vents.
 

Mercedes-Benz

Mercedes-Benz Group AG is headquartered in Stuttgart, Germany. Established in 1926, Mercedes-Benz Group produces consumer luxury vehicles and light commercial vehicles badged as Mercedes-Benz, Mercedes-AMG, and Mercedes-Maybach. Its origin lies in Daimler-Motoren-Gesellschaft's 1901 Mercedes and Carl Benz's 1886 Benz Patent-Motorwagen, which is widely regarded as the first internal combustion engine in a self-propelled automobile. The slogan for the brand is "the best or nothing".
Official website: Mercedes-Benz (Global), Mercedes-Benz (USA)

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