The Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG is sports car developed by Mercedes in-house division AMG. Replacing the Mercedes SLR McLaren, which was developed jointly by the sports and racecar builder McLaren, AMG designers drew inspiration from famous Mercedes-Benz models, especially the mid-50s Mercedes 300SL sports car.
The Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG has no relation to the SL-Class and, in fact, little relationship with the rest of the models in the Mercedes lineup, including other AMG models. Instead, the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG is built on its own weight-saving aluminum platform and uses few parts, mostly internal pieces, from other models. The Mercedes SLS AMG's engine is sourced from the SL63 though highly modified for the SLS AMG's nature; same with the seven-speed automatic transmission.
The Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG debuted as a 2011 model so there are few changes for 2012. However, a soft-top convertible model joins the lineup in late 2011 as a 2012 model.
The Range
Body style: coupe, convertible
Engine: 6.2-liter V-8
Transmission: seven-speed automatic
Model: Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG
What's New
The biggest news for the 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG is the addition of a convertible model. Scheduled to debut sometime later this year, the 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG convertible will be a soft-top model that, according to the automaker, unfolds in eleven seconds even if the SLS AMG is traveling up to 30 mph.
Otherwise, changes are few for the 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG. The coupe gets standard blind spot assist and optional AMG adaptive suspension and measurement telematic systems. New colors will also be available.
Exterior
All-new in 2011, the 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG carries largely unchanged into the new model year. Both the coupe and upcoming convertible are slightly longer than the Mercedes-Benz SL-Class but the SLS AMG is lighter thanks to its aluminum framing, which keeps the sports car below two tons.
Interior
All-new in 2011, the 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG makes few changes of the interior, which carries largely unchanged into the new model year. The interior is quite intimate for such a large vehicle and seat adjustments are limited. Thus, space can be tight for tall drivers and passengers. Materials are top notch, from the premium leather covering the seats, steering wheel, dash, and interior door panels. Instrument cluster is easy to see and the controls on the center stack are easy to reach. Cargo capacity is limited to 6.2 cubic feet, so soft duffle bags are best for weekend trips. The 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG, like most sports cars, is set low to the ground, so you have to climb down into the seats, and there are no pulldown straps for shorter limbed drivers and passengers to close the gullwing doors easily from a sitting position.
Performance & Handling
The 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG is a sports car and its seven-speed automatic transmission is almost telepathic in switching gears as the vehicle slaloms through curvy roads at high speeds. The suspension is tight and engine noise omnipresent in the Mercedes SLS AMG, so those who want a daily driver should look elsewhere.
Safety
Like most Mercedes-Benz vehicles, the 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG is well equipped with standard safety features like eight airbags (front, knee, side, and side curtain airbags); antilock disc brakes (ABS); stability control (ESC); and traction control.
EPA Fuel Economy
Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG 14 mpg city/20 mpg highway
You'll Like
- Styling
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Engine
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Tight suspension
You Won't Like
Sum Up
McLaren who?
If You Like This Vehicle
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