The 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL Class marked the beginning of a new chapter in a legendary story that spans over six decades. For sixty years, the “SL” designation has been synonymous with a unique blend of sporty performance, elegant style, and unparalleled comfort, all while consistently pushing the boundaries of automotive innovation. This latest iteration of the iconic roadster takes this tradition to new heights, most notably through its groundbreaking construction and advanced technology.
One of the most significant advancements in the 2013 SL is its construction. For the first time, the SL is produced with an almost entirely aluminum bodyshell, resulting in a considerable weight reduction compared to its predecessor. This shift to aluminum not only enhances fuel efficiency but also provides a foundation for significantly improved handling and driving dynamics. The highly rigid all-aluminum structure contributes to a more agile and sporty feel, while simultaneously improving ride comfort and reducing body roll. Complementing this lightweight design is a new generation of direct injection engines, offering increased power and improved fuel economy.
Beyond performance enhancements, the 2013 SL introduces innovative features designed to elevate the driving experience. The revolutionary FrontBass system transforms the cabin into a concert hall, delivering exceptional audio quality whether the top is up or down. Another highlight is the highly efficient MAGIC VISION CONTROL, a unique windshield cleaning system that ensures optimal visibility in all conditions. The 2013 SL550, the initial model available in the U.S. market, made its debut in showrooms in the spring, promising a new standard for luxury roadsters.
Setting New Standards in the Luxury Roadster Segment
The 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL Class surpasses its predecessor in both comfort and athletic prowess, establishing new benchmarks in the luxury roadster category. Its remarkable everyday usability further solidifies its position as one of the most versatile sports cars available. The introduction of the new SL is undoubtedly a statement about passionate and refined motoring at its finest.
Dr. Dieter Zetsche, then Chairman of the Board of Management of Daimler AG and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars, aptly summarized the significance of the new model: “There are around 900 million cars in the world and thousands of models. But there is only a handful of automotive icons. Our SL is one of them: It has class, it has style, it is the ultimate in comfort and luxury. And it combines all that with an incredibly sporty and dynamic character. You would struggle to find a car that embodies Gottlieb Daimler’s aspiration more perfectly than our new SL – the best or nothing.” This quote emphasizes the iconic status of the SL and Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to excellence.
The Lightweight Advantage: All-Aluminum Bodyshell
Taking the “Sport Leicht” (Sport Light) designation of “SL” to heart, the 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL Class prioritizes weight reduction as a core design principle. Echoing the original 1952 SL with its lightweight tubular frame, this model marks the first time Mercedes-Benz has implemented an all-aluminum bodyshell in a series production vehicle. Only a minimal number of components are crafted from alternative materials, with even lighter magnesium used for elements like the cover panel behind the fuel tank and the roof. For enhanced safety, high-strength steel tubing is integrated into the A-pillars.
This innovative aluminum bodyshell achieves a weight saving of approximately 242 pounds compared to a steel equivalent. Dr. Thomas Rudlaff, the Mercedes-Benz engineer responsible for the aluminum bodyshell, explained the impact: “The effect is as if a large passenger has stepped out of the car. The result is perceptible and measurable. Less weight means improved performance and efficiency. In other words, the driving pleasure increases and the environmental impact decreases.” This weight reduction directly translates to tangible improvements in vehicle dynamics and fuel economy.
Beyond weight savings, the aluminum structure offers superior rigidity, safety, and comfort compared to the previous steel construction. This is achieved through intelligent lightweight design, utilizing components optimized for their specific functions. Different aluminum manufacturing processes, such as chill casting, vacuum die casting, extruded aluminum sections, and aluminum panels of varying thicknesses, are employed depending on the component’s requirements. The result is a structure that delivers high rigidity and excellent safety while minimizing resonance and vibrations.
While the 2013 SL boasts increased comfort features and advanced assistance systems compared to its predecessor, some of the weight saved by the aluminum bodyshell is offset by these additions. However, the overall weight of the 2013 SL550 is still approximately 275 pounds lighter than the previous model, thanks to the aluminum construction and numerous other weight-saving details implemented throughout the vehicle.
Enhanced Driving Dynamics and Performance
The 2013 SL is engineered to deliver exhilarating driving pleasure, characterized by powerful acceleration, effortless cruising at any speed, and nimble handling on winding roads. The SL550 is equipped with a potent engine and a finely tuned suspension system that balances sportiness and comfort, further enhanced by intelligent lightweight construction. Aluminum is utilized for steering knuckles and suspension arms on the front axle, as well as for virtually all suspension components on the rear axle, minimizing unsprung masses and improving responsiveness.
Two suspension systems are offered for the new SL: the Agility Control Suspension as standard and the optional Active Body Control (ABC) suspension. Both systems are paired with a new electromechanical Direct-Steer system featuring speed-sensitive power steering and a variable steering ratio. This system ensures excellent directional stability at high speeds and enhances the SL’s agility in tighter maneuvers. It also reduces steering effort during parking and low-speed maneuvering.
The SL550 is powered by a new V8 engine, producing 429 hp from its 4663 cc displacement. This represents a 12 percent increase in power compared to its predecessor, despite a smaller 0.8-liter displacement. Simultaneously, fuel consumption is reduced, while torque is significantly increased from 391 lb-ft to 516 lb-ft, a 32 percent gain. The engine incorporates an ECO stop/start function as standard, and the 7-Speed Driver-Adaptive automatic transmission is optimized for both fuel efficiency and driving comfort. Despite its fuel-conscious design, the engine delivers impressive sporty performance, propelling the SL550 from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.5 seconds, eight-tenths of a second faster than the previous SL550.
Interior Design: Aesthetic, Stylish, and Sporty
The 2013 SL’s refined exterior is complemented by a luxurious and meticulously crafted interior. Premium materials and attention to detail define the style and character of the cabin. Compared to the previous generation, the new SL is longer (+1.97 inches) and wider (+2.24 inches), resulting in a more spacious and comfortable interior. Shoulder room (+1.46 inches) and elbow room (+1.10 inches) are increased, exceeding typical dimensions in this vehicle class.
Clean lines and a coherent design language create a harmonious and inviting atmosphere. A sweeping expanse of fine wood trim flows from the center console across the dashboard and into the doors, creating a pleasant wrap-around effect. Two wood trim options are available, allowing for personalization. The interior seamlessly blends the understated sportiness of a high-performance vehicle with the comfortable and elegant ambiance expected of a luxury touring car.
Exterior Design: Classic SL Proportions, Modern Interpretation
The designers of the latest SL generation drew inspiration from tradition while embracing new perspectives, resulting in a stylishly sporty and elegant luxury sports car with classic SL proportions. The long hood, a hallmark of the SL lineage, flows into a set-back compact passenger compartment. A wide and powerful rear end, with a hint of racing pedigree, completes the design. Sculpted yet smooth surfaces along the flanks are defined by carefully considered lines. Refined details, a distinctive rear design, and ventilation grilles with chromed fins, reminiscent of Mercedes-Benz’s dynamic heritage, evoke the legendary SL lineage.
An upright, classic sports car radiator grille clearly identifies the 2013 SL as a distinguished member of the Mercedes-Benz sports car family. The centrally positioned star, a contemporary reinterpretation of the iconic trademark, extends into the center section with organically flowing contours. Dynamically angled headlamps, positioned wide apart, frame the striking front end and give the new roadster a unique visual signature. Bi-xenon headlamps with active curve illumination, corner illuminating lamps, and Adaptive Highbeam Assist are standard features. These lighting technologies adapt to driving and weather conditions, providing enhanced visibility. Striking sidelights and horizontal LED daytime running lamps integrated into the bumper’s outer edges further enhance the front-end design.
Retractable Hard Top and MAGIC SKY CONTROL
Continuing the SL tradition of innovative roof designs, the sixth generation features a retractable hard top that can be operated electrohydraulically in seconds, seamlessly transforming the SL from a coupe to a roadster and back. Unlike its predecessor, the 2013 SL offers two retractable hard top options: a glass roof or the unique panoramic roof with MAGIC SKY CONTROL.
The MAGIC SKY CONTROL roof allows the driver to switch between light and dark transparency levels at the touch of a button. In its light setting, it becomes virtually transparent, providing an open-air feel even in colder weather. In its dark state, the roof offers shade and reduces interior heat buildup in bright sunlight. Both roof versions utilize a magnesium frame, contributing to a weight reduction of approximately 13 pounds compared to the previous model, lowering the vehicle’s center of gravity and enhancing agility. The roof and trunk lid operating mechanism has been refined, reducing the opening or closing time to under 20 seconds.
Aerodynamic Excellence
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the 2013 SL boasts exceptional aerodynamic performance, achieving top marks in its class in three key areas: minimal wind noise, comparable to a closed sedan; superior open-air driving comfort, allowing for top-down driving even at high speeds; and minimal dirt accumulation on side windows. These aerodynamic advancements contribute to a more refined and enjoyable driving experience, whether the top is up or down.
World-First Innovations: FrontBass and MAGIC VISION CONTROL
Staying true to its reputation as a technological leader, the 2013 SL introduces two world-first innovations:
- MAGIC VISION CONTROL: This intelligent and highly efficient wiper/wash system dispenses washer fluid directly in front of the wiper blade via integrated channels, in both directions of wiper travel. This innovative approach eliminates distracting water spray on the windshield and ensures consistently clear visibility. The system also prevents overspray into the cabin when the roof is down. Heated wiper blades are standard, preventing ice and snow buildup and allowing for warm water application even in cold temperatures.
- FrontBass system: This unique audio system ingeniously utilizes the hollow spaces within the aluminum structures ahead of the footwell as resonance chambers for the woofers. This marks the first time a sound system has been integrated into the body-in-white structure. The result is clear, rich bass sounds and a concert hall-like audio experience, even when driving with the top down. This innovative layout also frees up space in the doors and interior. Both MAGIC VISION CONTROL and FrontBass are included as standard equipment, highlighting Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to innovation and driver experience.
HANDS-FREE ACCESS: Effortless Trunk Operation
The HANDS-FREE ACCESS system further enhances convenience by enabling hands-free operation of the trunk lid. A simple foot movement below the rear bumper allows the driver to open and even close the trunk automatically. Mercedes-Benz is unique in offering a system that provides both automatic opening and closing functionality.
The Safest Roadster in its Class
The 2013 SL is engineered to be the safest roadster in its segment, incorporating a collision-optimized aluminum structure, standard PRE-SAFE® and ATTENTION ASSIST systems, and a suite of advanced driver assistance technologies comparable to the S-Class. The rigid aluminum bodyshell forms a robust passenger cell with precisely defined deformation zones at the front and rear. In the event of a rollover, passenger protection is provided by two roll-over bars and A-pillars constructed from a steel and aluminum composite.
The restraint systems, including two-stage driver and front passenger airbags, have been further refined, and a head airbag covers the side impact area. An additional thorax airbag in the seat backrest provides upper body protection in side impacts. New crash-responsive NECK-PRO head restraints, developed by Mercedes-Benz, are also standard equipment. The standard PRE-SAFE® anticipatory occupant protection system detects imminent accident threats and proactively activates protective measures, maximizing the effectiveness of seat belts and airbags. Post-impact safety measures include automatic door unlocking, interior light activation, window lowering, and steering wheel upward movement, facilitating rapid assistance.
Standard Safety and Assistance Systems
The 2013 SL features a comprehensive suite of standard safety and driver assistance systems designed to prevent accidents. These include ATTENTION ASSIST, a drowsiness detection system, and ADAPTIVE BRAKE, incorporating ABS, acceleration skid control (ASR), and active yaw control, offering both safety and convenience features. Optional DISTRONIC PLUS adaptive cruise control with PRE-SAFE® Brake, utilizing radar sensors to detect rear-end collision risks, warns the driver and can initiate autonomous braking if necessary. PRE-SAFE® can also activate occupant protection measures in critical situations. Active Parking Assist, a new feature for the SL, uses ultrasound sensors to identify parking spaces and automatically steer the vehicle into the selected space, enhancing parking convenience.
Infotainment and Connectivity
The 2013 SL comes standard with COMAND infotainment system with internet access and a DVD changer. This system provides web browsing when stationary and access to Mercedes-Benz Apps, including Google Local Search, Yelp, and Facebook, via a Mercedes-Benz mbrace2 subscription after a trial period. Route sending from Google Maps and destination transfer from iPhone® and Android® phones via the Mercedes-Benz mbrace Mobile App are also supported. The COMAND system features a high-resolution 7-inch TFT color display positioned next to the instrument cluster, minimizing driver distraction.
“Edition 1” Special Model
To commemorate the launch of the 2013 SL, Mercedes-Benz offered a special “Edition 1” model for a limited time. This exclusive edition featured enhanced equipment, including AMG 19-inch alloy wheels, designo exclusive leather with contrasting topstitching, AIRSCARF, Harman/Kardon® Logic7® surround sound system, and designo crystal silver magno special paintwork exclusive to the “Edition 1”. The interior featured designo classic red/black exclusive upholstery with designo black piano lacquer wood trim, further enhancing the luxurious and sporty character of the 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL Class.
In conclusion, the 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL Class represents a significant leap forward, blending iconic SL heritage with cutting-edge technology, lightweight engineering, and enhanced performance, solidifying its position as a leader in the luxury roadster segment.
