New SL destined to be ‘instant classic’

Prices for the new SL will start from €140,000 for the SL350.

Mercedes Benz predicts that its new SL, which has just arrived in Ireland, is destined to become a classic worthy of the iconic SL roadster heritage.

With a longer, wider body, the new SL has a restyled grille and headlights, as well as a passenger compartment set well back to accentuate its sporty look.

Prices are expected to start from €140,000 for the SL350, with road tax beginning at €481, significantly less than the four-figure sum that applied previously.

Delivering 0-100kmh in 5.9 seconds, there has been a 22% reduction in fuel consumption thanks to 125kg reduction in body weight and a standard ECO start-top function.

The more powerful SL500 achieves 0-100km in 4.6 seconds, with a 12% drop in fuel consumption. Transmission on both versions is seven-speed automatic.

The SL can be converted from roadster to coupé in seconds with its retractable panoramic sunroof, while a windshield washing system applies fluid just ahead of the wipe bald, with channels integrated into the wiper to ensure that no water is splashed on to the screen and visibility is not disrupted when in use.