The facelifted 2016 Mercedes-Benz SL has just been revealed before the vehicle’s world debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show 2015 this week. As predicted, the facelifted model receives a selection of technological and visual tweaks to differentiate it from the outgoing model.
Powertrain and variant wise, the 2016 Mercedes-Benz SL is available in the same guises as the current car. That means it is offered in SL400 and SL500 derivatives as well as the two AMG models renamed the Mercedes-AMG SL63 and Mercedes-AMG SL65. Of those models, the SL400 is the only one to receive performance gains with its engine now pumping out 362 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque, a 35 hp gain meaning it’ll reach 100 km/h in 4.9 seconds.
As for the SL500, it retains its 449 hp V8 while the SL63 continues to deliver 577 hp and the SL65 has 621 hp on tap thanks to its V12 engine. Mated to all of these variants is the German marque’s latest 9G-Tronic nine-speed automatic transmission driving the rear wheels.
One important development for the facelifted Mercedes-Benz SL range is the inclusion of the Active Curve Tilting system of the S-Class Coupe to help dramatically reduce body roll. Additionally, the system adds a selection of different suspension systems catering to different road surfaces and driving styles.
From a visual standpoint, the new SL range receives modified headlights similar to those from other new Mercedes-Benz models. Additionally, custom bumpers are found across the range while the triangular taillights have also been redesigned. The SL63 model is particularly eye-catching as it utilises gloss black front air intake surrounds which connect at the number plate.
The facelifted Mercedes-Benz SL will be unveiled alongside the new GLS at the Los Angeles Auto Show.
