2022 Mercedes-AMG SL Prototypes Get Down and Dirty Prior to Next Week’s Premiere

Scooped in motion on the roads near the famous Nurburgring racetrack, these prototypes are believed to be in the SL 43 and SL 63 flavors. The former is understood to use a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, supposedly based on the mill powering the ‘45’ series, with or without mild-hybrid technology and electric supercharger.

As far as the 63 variant goes, it is likely that it might feature the ubiquitous twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8. Now, despite getting the hot ‘63’ nomenclature, it won’t sit at the top of the new-gen SL family. If the latest reports are correct, then that spot will be reserved for a plug-in hybrid model, presumably packing the same twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 with electric assistance as the AMG GT 63 E Performance. Six-pots will not be offered at all, apparently.

Based on the same platform as the upcoming GT Coupe and set to replace the GT Roadster, the 2022 SL, which has been fully integrated into the Mercedes-AMG brand in a premiere, has other aces up its sleeve. It will feature a 2+2 seating layout, and unlike its predecessors, it will no longer get a folding hardtop, but a ragtop instead, lowering the center of gravity and shaving a few kilograms from the curb weight.

In the visual department, it will sport the Panamericana grille flanked by slim LED headlights, flush mounted door handles, slender LED taillights, active rear spoiler, and quad exhaust pipes. The cockpit will be inspired by the latest S-Class, teasers have revealed, and will be dominated by big screens, joined by things such as leather upholstery, ambient lighting, 3D head-up display, comfy seats with massage function, and others. Stay tuned for more details as the unveiling date approaches.