Mercedes-AMG SL 43 meets Kyalami

For decades, the Mercedes-Benz SL series has held legendary status among automotive enthusiasts worldwide. Renowned for innovative engineering, luxurious interiors, and soul-igniting powertrains, the SL nameplate has always been a cut above the rest. Now, a new kind of SL makes its debut. The Mercedes-AMG SL 43.

The new Mercedes-AMG SL 43 boasts a captivating design that blends elegance and athleticism. Retaining its long hood and sleek profile, with a sprinkle of distinctive AMG styling elements, the new SL 43 stands out and is difficult to ignore, much like its ancestors. For weight reduction and a sportier appearance, Mercedes-Benz opted for a convertible soft-top roof over the previous hardtop Vario-roof. The standard running gear on the SL 43 is a set of 19-inch alloys.

Step inside the cabin of the SL, and you'll notice the addition of two rear seats for a 2+2 configuration. Breaking the mould, tradition has always dictated that an SL exclusively had only room for two. It's a modern interior with a high-resolution 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, as well as an 11.9-inch media screen which can tilt and adjust electronically from 12 degrees to 32 degrees. Buyers are treated to varying shades of premium Nappa hide, ranging from tan to cream-white, depending on your palate.

When news of a new SL model broke, Mercedes-Benz announced that the SL 43 would be accompanied by a 2.0l inline four-cylinder engine. In previous models, Mercedes-Benz SL has always been known for its V8 and V12 powerplants, the V6 being the least common. With the large-scale downsizing of engines, the introduction of a 4-cylinder SL should not have come as a surprise. The turbocharged engine with F1-inspired technology produces 280 kW and 480 Nm, channelled through a 9-speed AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT transmission. A 48-volt electric system is on board and can inject an additional 10 kW for short periods when required. Sprint time to 100km/h is a stated 4.9 seconds. Sampling the new SL 43 at the famous Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit was insightful, this new breed of SL feels more athletic, straying from the tourer-orientated style and feel in previous SL models.

It is, however, committed through bends and cheers you on with pops and bangs from the exhaust. With multiple driving modes, including Comfort, Sport, Sport+, and RACE, you can tailor the SL 43's dynamics to suit your driving style and road conditions.

For many, the inclusion of a 4-cylinder engine may be discouraging. However, there is news of a V8-powered SL variant on the horizon. It's likely to be '63' badged, although, with name changes and new configurations, it could very well be the range-topping SL 65.

Gugu Masuku – Proudly CHANGECARS