2011 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG US Pricing Announced

Taking advantage of its presence at the 2010 New York International Auto Show (NYIAS), the German manufacturer revealed that its 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLS AM will have a starting price of $183,000 when it goes on sale in the United States. More official details on the pricing will be revealed closer to the market launch.

Powered by an AMG 6.2l V8 engine, the SLS develops 571 horsepower (420 kW) at 6,800 rpm and a maximum torque of 650 Nm at 4,750 rpm. This is enough to make it reach 60 mph from a standstill in 3.8 seconds and keeps on accelerating until it reaches 315 km/h (195 mph).

The unit is paired with a AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed sports transmission with dual-clutch transmission, which offers the driver a choice of four different driving modes: "C" (Controlled Efficiency), "S" (Sport), "S+" (Sport plus) or "M" (Manual) along with a RACESTART function.

The gullwing will be offered with a choice of nine exclusive paint finishes highlighted by the AMG ALU-BEAM silver paintwork. Additional exterior styling cues include LED technology and motor racing/aviation inspired elements.

Inside, the SLS features elements inspired from aircraft construction design, seen on the dashboard and center console. Highlights include nappa leather, solid metal and (optional) genuine carbon-fibre facings, with five different leather colors available: black, classic red, sand, porcelain and light brown.

The German manufacturer is also reportedly working on an electric and a roadster version of the gullwing, expected to break cover later in the year.