The
2011 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class is a luxury two-seat roadster with a quick-stowing retractable hardtop. Three engines are offered, including the 5.5-liter V-8 with 382 horsepower, the 6.0-liter V-12 with 604 horsepower, and the 6.2-liter V-8 with 518 horsepower. The V-8s are paired to a seven-speed automatic transmission, while the V-12 is joined to a five-speed automatic. All SLs are rear-wheel drive.
As a versatile roadster comfortable in the city or country roads, the Mercedes SL-Class is the ultimate status symbol for who those who want performance and beauty too. Inside, the SL boasts a sublime cabin with all of the technology and gadgetry to entertain and bemuse. Safety equipment includes everything you'd expect and more, while the EPA rated fuel economy is in 14 mpg / 22 mpg highway range.
New for 2011
The Mercedes SL550 Night Edition debuted in 2011. With matte black paint, premium black leather, 19-inch AMG wheels, and silver painted brake calipers, this premium SL will be turned over to only 100 lucky customers. Also for 2011, all SL-Class vehicles received tire-pressure monitoring, HD Radio, and Sirius Traffic, and Quartz Blue as a new paint color. The SL600 and amazing SL65 Black are no longer.
Essentials
Transmissions: 7-speed automatic, 5-speed automatic
Engines: 5.5L V-8, 6.2L V-8, 6.0L V-12
Body Style: Convertible
Trims: SL550 Roadster, SL63 AMG Roadster, SL65 AMG Roadster
On the Outside
Streamlined, low-slung, and large, the Mercedes SL is beautiful. Whether you prefer a coupe or a convertible, the SL is both, with the retractable power hardtop and the lines remain gorgeous whether the top is up or down.
From the Inside
Loaded with luxury leather and wood, and all of the creature comforts you would expect at this price range, the Mercedes SL-Class also boasts 12-way adjustable and heated seats, navigation system, and a 10-speaker audio system.
Driving Performance
The Mercedes SL550 takes only 5.3 seconds to dash from zero to 60 mph, which decreases to 4.5 seconds with the SL63 and 4.2 with the SL65. Options on the AMG trims are three-stage traction control and Speedshift transmission.
Safety Equipment
Standard safety equipment on the Mercedes SL includes four-wheel discs with four-channel ABS and brake assist, stability control, and traction control. Dual front airbags, head-thorax side-impact airbags, and a driver knee airbag also come standard.
Gas Mileage
SL550: 14 mpg city/21 mpg highway
SL63 AMG: 12 mpg city/19 mpg highway
SL65 AMG: 12 mpg city/18 mpg highway
Plusses
- Exquisite styling
- Powerful, smooth-running engines
- Opulent interior
Minuses
Rating
Powerful prestigious roadster with retractable roof
People Who Like the 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class Also Like
- BMW 6 Series
- Aston Martin V8 Vantage
- Jaguar XK