2022 Mercedes-AMG SL Strips Off Camouflage Before Imminent Debut

Mercedes has already shown us the rigid chassis and the tech-filled interior of the upcoming SL, but we are still waiting for the roadster’s full reveal which is expected before the end of the year.

Prototypes of the SL have been spied during testing, but this time our spy photographers caught one with the lightest possible camouflage, revealing almost all of the design details.

The next generation of Merc’s most popular roadster is a departure from the previous model, with sexier proportions and a curved rear-end resembling the AMG GT sportscar. On the shark-inspired front end, we can see the aggressive Panamericana grille positioned low between triangular-shaped LED headlights. The sporty intakes on the bumper in combination with the quadruple tailpipes at the back are hinting at an AMG variant.

The prototype also dons large diameter rims finished in black with yellow brake calipers, making it look even more handsome.

Unlike its predecessors, the new-generation SL gets a fabric roof, showing that hard-top roadsters are probably a thing of the past. When opened, it reveals a 2+2 seating layout and a futuristic dashboard. The 12.3-inch instrument cluster and the tilting 11.9-inch central touchscreen dominating the center console feature the latest MBUX system, while there will also be an optional 3D head-up display for those who want to keep their eyes on the road.

It has been confirmed that the new SL will replace both the outgoing SL and the AMG GT Roadster. The brand new lightweight architecture made of aluminum will be shared with the new generation GT Coupe, bringing significantly increased torsional stiffness (+18%), torsional rigidity (+50%), and longitudinal rigidity (+40%) over the current GT Roadster.

The engine range is expected to comprise the latest Mercedes motors with four, six, and eight cylinders. The SL 63 variant will most likely feature a twin-turbo V8, while a PHEV variant is also rumored, borrowing the electrified 831 hp powertrain from the Mercedes-AMG GT 63 E Performance.

We will learn more about the new SL in the coming months as production is expected to start sometime in late 2021 or early 2022.