Mercedes-Benz unveils the SL Grand Edition model

ABU DHABI: With the 6th generation SL (codenamed R231) being around for many years now, Mercedes is looking to revive this grand tourer with the launch of the Grand Edition model. Which to be noted, is a name reserved for exclusive Mercedes-Benz special edition models.

To differentiate the Grand Edition model from regular SL variants, an array of aesthetic changes have been made. For starters, you get staggered AMG 10-spoke forged alloy wheels in high-gloss black with high-sheen rim flange and spokes. The rim size is 19-inch at the front and 20-inch at the rear. The front bumper gets high-gloss chrome treatment and matt silver applications. Grand Edition badging is prominently visible on the side fender to let everyone know how special your car is.

Jump inside, and you are enveloped in black Nappa leather seats with contrast stitching and Grand Edition embroidered on the headrests. Designo tundra brown pearl leather has also been applied to various interior elements such as the sports steering wheel’s upper and lower segments. The SL Grand Edition model has a host of standard equipment like active multi-contour seats with massage/dynamic handling function, climate control for the seats, Active Parking Assist, Driving Assistance Plus Package, Airscarf neck-level heating system, and sports suspension which lowers the ride height by 10 mm.

Moving on to the heart of the matter, the SL Grand Edition model will be available with two engine options. The SL 400 comes with a 3.0-litre bi-turbo V6 cranking out 367 PS and 500 Nm of torque. Transmission duties are handled by a 9-speed 9G-Tronic automatic transmission. All this enables the car to do 0-100 kmph in a mere 4.9 seconds. If more power is what you’re after then, the SL 500 will be the match for you. Powered by a 4.7-litre bi-turbo V8, this engine makes 455 PS and a staggering 700 Nm of torque. The transmission used is the same as the one in the SL 400 while 0-100 kmph comes up in 4.3 seconds. Top speed of both the SL 400 and SL 500 is electronically limited to 250 kmph.

With these slew of changes, Mercedes-Benz hopes to revive the SL and make it competitive in today’s market.