Photo: S. Baldauf/SB-Medien
As far as we know, this is the first time the future Mercedes-AMG SL63 was ever caught on camera, and to top it all off, it's not even wearing such a comprehensive camouflage.
Launched in 2011, the current SL model is one of the oldest in the Mercedes-Benz range. It is in clear need of a facelift and that move will come sooner rather than later, with next year's Geneva Motor Show looking like the most likely venue.
But that's the regular version. If Mercedes sticks to the same algorithm as when the current model was launched, the AMG-tuned car should follow later the same year. The facelifted Mercedes-AMG SL63 (the new name under the naming scheme implemented this year), then, should arrive in 2016 as a 2017 year model.
The aesthetic modifications are pretty easy to guess: larger air intakes at the front, changed radiator grille, new design for the headlights, modified rear bumper with integrated air diffuser and all-red taillights.
But what's really bugging us is the engine. Will Mercedes keep the same 5.5-liter supercharged V8 in the current car, or will the SL join the ranks of the new AMG models using the magnificent 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8?
Strangely, both moves would make sense. If they keep the current engine, it will enhance that special halo Mercedes-Benz has always tried to build around the SL. Proof: did you know the SL will be the only car in the Mercedes-Benz line-up to retain its name and not go for the three-letter nomenclature except for the AMG GT and the G-Class?
Opting for the smaller block engine, on the other hand, would lower the car's weight and CO2 emissions while doing (almost) nothing to hamper its performance figures, even though the current V8 is indeed more powerful with its 585 hp. And don't forget there's also the Mercedes-AMG SL65 with the V12.
Whatever they chose, we'll find out soon enough. To be honest, though, I think the current SL is bit of a flop visual-wise and Mercedes would be smart to come up with a new model as quickly as possible. Just look at what's leaving their designers' drawing boards lately. They should take advantage of this spell they're on and launch the seventh generation of this iconic model. Obviously, it won't happen and we'll most likely have to wait at least three - if not four - more years for that.
But that's the regular version. If Mercedes sticks to the same algorithm as when the current model was launched, the AMG-tuned car should follow later the same year. The facelifted Mercedes-AMG SL63 (the new name under the naming scheme implemented this year), then, should arrive in 2016 as a 2017 year model.
The aesthetic modifications are pretty easy to guess: larger air intakes at the front, changed radiator grille, new design for the headlights, modified rear bumper with integrated air diffuser and all-red taillights.
But what's really bugging us is the engine. Will Mercedes keep the same 5.5-liter supercharged V8 in the current car, or will the SL join the ranks of the new AMG models using the magnificent 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8?
Strangely, both moves would make sense. If they keep the current engine, it will enhance that special halo Mercedes-Benz has always tried to build around the SL. Proof: did you know the SL will be the only car in the Mercedes-Benz line-up to retain its name and not go for the three-letter nomenclature except for the AMG GT and the G-Class?
Opting for the smaller block engine, on the other hand, would lower the car's weight and CO2 emissions while doing (almost) nothing to hamper its performance figures, even though the current V8 is indeed more powerful with its 585 hp. And don't forget there's also the Mercedes-AMG SL65 with the V12.
Whatever they chose, we'll find out soon enough. To be honest, though, I think the current SL is bit of a flop visual-wise and Mercedes would be smart to come up with a new model as quickly as possible. Just look at what's leaving their designers' drawing boards lately. They should take advantage of this spell they're on and launch the seventh generation of this iconic model. Obviously, it won't happen and we'll most likely have to wait at least three - if not four - more years for that.
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