The Mercedes-Benz SL-Class, an icon of luxury and performance, has consistently evolved over decades. For enthusiasts considering the Mercedes Sl550 Price point in the past, the arrival of the 2025 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class marks a significant leap forward. This review delves into the latest generation, examining whether the new models justify an upgrade and how they measure up in today’s market.
Image depicting Reese Counts, Vehicle Test Editor at Edmunds, who contributed to the vehicle review, emphasizing expertise in automotive testing and analysis.
While the Mercedes SL550 price represented a certain echelon of luxury motoring in its time, the 2025 SL-Class aims to redefine those standards. The new lineup boasts a range of models, from the AMG SL 43 to the powerhouse AMG SL 63 S E Performance, each engineered to deliver a unique blend of comfort, technology, and exhilarating performance.
Pumping Plug-in Performance: A New Era for the SL
The 2025 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class introduces a groundbreaking AMG SL 63 S E Performance trim. This model marries a potent V8 engine with an electric motor, unleashing a staggering 805 horsepower and 1,047 lb-ft of torque. The result is a 0-to-60 mph acceleration in a mere 2.8 seconds. This plug-in hybrid is not focused on fuel efficiency but on raw power and driving thrill, placing it in a performance league that justifies a premium price tag, especially when considering historical Mercedes SL550 price points.
While the EPA-estimated 19 mpg-e highway might not scream fuel savings, the electric component is geared towards enhancing performance. Although Mercedes has not specified the electric-only range with its 6.1-kWh battery, estimations suggest around 10-15 miles. The S E Performance model is equipped with advanced features like rear-wheel steering, adaptive suspension, and carbon-ceramic brakes, aligning with its expected price range around $200,000.
Competitors in the Luxury Convertible Arena
When considering the Mercedes SL550 price bracket and moving up to the 2025 SL-Class, it’s essential to assess the competition. The Porsche 911 convertible stands out as a primary rival. While offering a semblance of rear seats and varied performance levels, the 911 maintains a sports car essence, prioritizing engagement over comfort compared to the SL.
The BMW 8 Series, including the M8 variant, provides comparable performance and a more spacious trunk, addressing a known limitation of the SL. The Lexus LC offers a more relaxed, elegant open-top experience. For those seeking Italian flair, the Maserati GranCabrio is an option, although its performance, based on the GranTurismo coupe, may not match the SL’s dynamism.
Edmunds Expert Rating: A Benchmark of Top-Down Luxury
The 2025 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class earns an Edmunds Expert Rating of 8.1 out of 10, affirming its position as a leader in luxury convertibles. It excels in delivering a comfortable, relaxed ride with its finely tuned suspension, coupled with impressive power and acceleration. The interior is refined, although the reliance on touchscreen controls may overcomplicate some functions. The limited trunk and rear seat space remain practical drawbacks, consistent even when compared to expectations set by the Mercedes SL550 price class.
Performance: 8.5/10
The AMG SL 63 variant achieves 0 to 60 mph in just 3.4 seconds in Edmunds testing, with the AMG SL 55 only slightly behind. While not as quick as top-tier Porsche 911 or BMW M8 models, the SL offers abundant torque and traction from its turbo V8 and standard all-wheel drive. The steering is responsive, though feedback is limited, and body roll is more pronounced than in sportier rivals. However, the handling is well-suited for a luxury convertible, offering adjustable drive modes for varied driving preferences.
Around town, the SL maintains its relaxed and comfortable demeanor, a hallmark carried forward from previous generations, including those associated with the Mercedes SL550 price range. The transmission provides quick shifts when needed but remains smooth for casual driving. Light steering at low speeds and optional carbon-ceramic brakes enhance the overall driving experience.
Comfort: 9/10
The 2025 SL-Class excels in balancing sporty handling with daily comfort, earning a 9/10 in this category. The active suspension adapts to different drive modes, ensuring a comfortable ride even on imperfect surfaces. While not matching the S-Class in outright comfort, it surpasses most convertibles. The seats are exceptionally adjustable, offering lumbar, side, and thigh bolstering, with optional heating, cooling, massaging, and neck-warming features. The climate control system, while powerful, can be slightly cumbersome due to touchscreen operation.
Interior: 7.5/10
Despite Mercedes-Benz’s reputation for premium interiors, the SL’s interior scores a 7.5/10. While spacious in the front and featuring an excellent driving position, it falls slightly short of expectations. The infotainment system, shared with other Mercedes models, has a steep learning curve due to its extensive functionality. Controls are generally accessible, and the center screen is tiltable to minimize glare when the top is down. Visibility is limited due to the narrow rear window and high beltline, mitigated by helpful surround-view cameras. The rear seat is minimally functional, similar to rivals like the Porsche 911. The cloth convertible top, while quieter and more space-efficient than previous hardtops, is slower to operate and controlled via the touchscreen, which is less intuitive than traditional controls.
Image showcasing the 2025 Mercedes-Benz G580 EV, linking to related Edmunds content and broadening the reader’s scope of Mercedes-Benz’s 2025 model year offerings.
Technology: 9/10
The SL’s technology features are impressive, scoring a 9/10. The navigation system is user-friendly with a large, clear display and voice command functionality that works well even with the top down. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, four USB-C ports, and a wireless charging pad are standard. The audio system is top-tier for a convertible. A comprehensive suite of driver aids, including adaptive cruise control and augmented reality navigation, enhances safety and convenience, though the forward collision warning system can be overly sensitive.
Storage: 6.5/10
Storage is a compromise in any convertible, and the SL scores 6.5/10. The trunk offers 7.5 cubic feet with the top down and 8.5 cubic feet with it up, more than the Lexus LC and Porsche 911 but less than the BMW M8. Cabin storage is adequate, with a reasonably sized center console and door pockets. The rear seat is best used for additional cargo rather than passengers.
Fuel Economy: 7/10
The AMG SL 63 achieves an EPA-estimated 16 mpg combined, which is typical for high-performance luxury convertibles, aligning with expectations for vehicles in this category, including those succeeding models priced around the Mercedes SL550 price point in earlier years.
Value: 7.5/10
The SL offers excellent build quality and a premium feel, justifying its value proposition to a degree. Fit and finish are exceptional, with a solid and well-assembled structure. The interior materials and design exude luxury. However, the higher trims can become quite expensive, with competitors like BMW, Lexus, and Porsche offering convertibles at potentially lower prices. Warranty coverage is standard for the class.
Wildcard: 8.5/10
The SL’s aesthetic appeal is strong, particularly with the return to a soft top, enhancing its visual profile compared to the previous generation’s hardtop. Its design is sophisticated without being overly flamboyant. The interior is particularly striking, with ambient lighting and detailed trim. As an AMG-exclusive model, it emphasizes performance and grand touring capabilities, striking a balance between comfort and engaging driving dynamics, making it a compelling option for those considering an upgrade from or alternatives to models once positioned at the Mercedes SL550 price level.
Which SL-Class Does Edmunds Recommend?
Edmunds recommends the AMG SL 55. While the four-cylinder SL 43 makes the entry point more accessible, the V8 in the SL 55 is deemed worth the upgrade. It offers enhanced power, all-wheel drive, and adaptive suspension, beneficial for diverse driving conditions. The Driver Assistance package is also recommended for its adaptive cruise control and added safety features.
Mercedes-Benz SL-Class Models
The 2025 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class is available in four AMG trims: AMG SL 43, AMG SL 55, AMG SL 63, and AMG SL 63 S E Performance.
The AMG SL 43 features a turbocharged four-cylinder engine (416 hp, 354 lb-ft), while the AMG SL 55 upgrades to a turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 (469 hp, 516 lb-ft). The AMG SL 63 offers a more potent version of the V8 (577 hp, 590 lb-ft). The top-tier AMG SL 63 S E Performance combines a hand-built V8 (603 hp, 627 lb-ft) with an electric motor, achieving a combined 805 hp and 1,047 lb-ft of torque.
All models use a nine-speed automatic transmission. The AMG SL 43 is rear-wheel drive, while the others are all-wheel drive. Standard features across the range include a power-folding soft top, heated and ventilated front seats with massage, advanced infotainment, and driver assistance systems. Higher trims add performance enhancements, such as rear-wheel steering, adaptive suspension, and upgraded brakes.
For those contemplating the evolution from the Mercedes SL550 price point, the 2025 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class offers a spectrum of models that enhance performance, luxury, and technology, marking a significant step forward in the SL lineage.
