CATS Motors has launched the all-new Mercedes-Benz SL roadster, featuring aluminium construction, more efficient engines, and a style that harks back closer to its 300 SL forebear. The all-aluminium bodyshell, a first for a Mercedes production car, is big factor in the new car’s reduced weight: the SL 500 is lighter by 125kg, and the SL 350 by 140kg. This is despite having more equipment and safety features on board.
The SL 500 features a new V8 with 435bhp, up 12 percent from the previous model, with an actual displacement of 4663cc. Fuel economy has improved by up to 22 percent, with a whopping 700Nm of torque. The SL 350 has a 306-bhp V6 with 370Nm. The SL 350 can accelerate to 100km/h in 5.9 seconds, while the SL 500’s 0-100 time is 4.6 seconds. Both engines are mated to the 7-speed automatic, and are equipped with an auto start/stop feature.
Suspension bits front and rear are also made from aluminum. Semi-active adjustable suspension damping is standard, while active suspension is available. The steering system features electric assist and variable steering ratio, reportedly reducing amount of steering while parking, while providing stability at speed.
The new SL is longer (+50mm) and wider (+57mm), to make the cockpit roomier. The interior features available wood trim and aluminium bits.
The SL borrows the upright grille of the original SL, as also seen in recent Mercedes cars sucha as the SLK and the CLS. The long hood-short tail is still the main styling theme. The slanted headlamps include five different lighting modes, with LED sidelights and daytime running lights.
Debuting in the SLK, the SL also has a glass roof option with electrochromic dimming function. The glass can be set from transparent to completely opaque. A painted metal roof or standard glass roof are other available options. Of course, all variants of the roof can retract into the trunk, in 20 seconds. Magnesium roof frames help reduce weight futher. Mercedes claims wind noise virtually on par with a closed sedan roof up, with comfortable touring even at speed with roof down.
The audio system uses the aluminium structure within the front footwell to enhance bass—dubbed as Frontbass. Meanwhile, Magic Vision Control improves on the washer system by applying washer fluid just in front of the wiper blade using channels integrated into the blade: thus no more water splashed all over the windshield, which can disrupt visibility. “Kick to open,” a la Kinect, where the driver waves his foot under the rear bumper, allows hands-free opening and closing of the trunk.
CATS is offering a limited “Edition 1” model as part of the launch. Edition 1 comes with panoramic vario-roof, AMG styling bits, sport suspension, AMG 19-inch allo wheels, nappa leather interior, Airscarf warm air blower, heated seats, ambient lighting, and Harman/Kardon audio system.
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