Mercedes-Benz just gave the SL Roadster a third identity. CEO Ola Källenius confirmed at the Golden Steering Wheel awards in Berlin that a new, comfort-focused SL variant arrives in 2027, sitting alongside the existing AMG and Maybach versions rather than replacing either one.

The news breaks a pattern buyers have gotten used to since the current SL launched for the 2022 model year. Instead of one roadster wearing two badges, the facelifted 2028 model-year range will offer three distinct takes on the canvas-roof convertible.

As reported by Auto Bild, Källenius laid out the new model's mission in plain terms. "With the new Mercedes-Benz SL, the SL family grows by another model," he said describing an expansion in the lineup.

He went further on what that new model has to deliver. "An SL has to combine assured performance, high comfort and a special driving experience," Källenius said, before confirming the timeline outright: "We will present the new Mercedes-Benz SL next year."

That puts the regular Mercedes-Benz-badged SL on relaxed open-top driving and refinement.

A camouflaged prototype photographed ahead of the announcement backs that reading, showing a cleaner front bumper with a traditional three-pointed star and star-pattern running lights. That treatment stands apart from the AMG's Panamericana grille and the Maybach's heavier front end. Each SL gets its own face to go with its own character.

Mercedes has reportedly dropped the four-cylinder SL 43 engine, and an inline-six is reportedly under consideration, though nothing is confirmed.

The AMG SL sticks to its performance brief with sharper handling and focus on outright pace.

Source link