REVIEW: The Mercedes-AMG SL43 Roadster

Picture yourself cruising down the open road in the luxurious 2023 Mercedes-AMG SL 43 Roadster with the top down. As the wind blows through your hair, you’ll feel an unparalleled rush of freedom and excitement. But that’s not all.

The sleek design of the car coupled with the powerful engine will make you feel unstoppable as you take on the open road. Get ready for an unforgettable driving experience that you won’t forget anytime soon. 

The Mercedes-Benz SL: Historic

The Mercedes SL sports car has a rich history dating back to 1954. However, if you include the early 300 SL Gullwing race cars, the history of the model extends to 1952. Over the years, the SL has been acclaimed for its powerful engines and there has never been an SL model with fewer than six cylinders. Until now. 

The latest model of the Mercedes-AMG SL departs from that tradition. In place of a V8 or six-cylinder is a four-cylinder turbocharged hybrid engine. This marks a significant shift in the SL’s history, and it has been met with mixed reactions from automotive enthusiasts. Some argue that a four-cylinder engine is not powerful enough to do justice to the SL’s legacy, while others appreciate the fuel-efficiency and reduced emissions that come with the smaller engine.

Regardless of the differing opinions, it is clear the Mercedes-AMG SL continues to evolve and adapt to changing times and technology. As always, it remains a benchmark of luxury, performance, and innovation.

What moves the AMG SL43?

The SL43 is a remarkable vehicle boasting an incredibly powerful engine, that generates an impressive 375 horsepower and 354 lb-ft. of torque. The 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine is an engineering marvel, constructed by skilled AMG artisans who follow AMG’s “one man, one engine ethos. It’s so special that the builder leaves a builder’s plate with their signature on the completed engine. This mill features a standard turbocharged internal combustion engine with an electric motor assist. It is technology ripped directly from the Mercedes-AMG Formula 1 team to ensure the turbo is always ready to deliver top-notch performance.

According to Mercedes, this advanced engine technology offers an unmatched driving experience, providing drivers with an adrenaline-fueled rush as they accelerate from zero-to-60 mph in 4.8 seconds.

Several AMG-SL variations.

The 2023 Mercedes-AMG SL is a luxury sports car that promises a thrilling driving experience. It’s available in three different models, each with its own set of impressive features. The SL 43 is joined by the SL 55 with its 469-hp 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 and the SL 63 with its 579-hp 4.0-liter turbo V8. Prices begin in the low $110,000s to the mid-$180,000s, including destination fees from Bremen, Germany.

The SL43 receives a minor styling refresh with updated front and rear fascia and circular tailpipes, in contrast to the square outlets found on the V8 SL models.

A luxurious interior.

Mercedes-AMG SL 43 boasts impressive luxury and technology in a positively on-point interior. Once inside, the driver and passenger are treated to comfortable and supportive seats offering a range of adjustable features, including adjustable side bolsters, that do their part to keep you firmly in place. The high center console and tall windowsills help create a cocooning sensation that wraps you in luxury and comfort.

Our tester was equipped with several optional features. The Moonlight White semigloss paint gave the car a sleek and modern look, while the AMG Night Package exterior trim added an extra touch of elegance. The Black AMG 21-inch wheels and tires not only looked great but also provided excellent performance. The AMG carbon-fiber trim added a sporty touch.

In terms of space, the car offers ample legroom, and Mercedes has included an Air scarf system in the front headrests, providing a warm breeze that keeps the driver and passenger comfortable even while driving in winter with the top down. The SL now has four seats, which is a significant departure from its previous two-seater design. However, the rear seats are not spacious enough to accommodate adults, making it suitable only for small children or storing luggage.

With the increased seating capacity, the SL interior has become more practical and versatile, providing more options for its users. Fit a briefcase or camera bag behind the front seats; the car’s trunk provides enough space for additional luggage.

From the driver’s seat in the AMG SL43.

Test-driving the AMG SL43 model in Arizona, I was filled with awe and inspiration as I accelerated to full throttle. The rush of power and precision engineering of the vehicle was incredible and made me appreciate the beauty of human innovation. It was clear that this car was designed with passion and performance in mind, leaving me feeling exhilarated.

In a nutshell the 2023 Mercedes-AMG SL 43 provides an excellent combination of luxury, style, and practicality, making it an excellent choice for those who seek a premium al-fresco (That means “outdoor”) driving experience.