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2012 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class Convertible

Summary

Provided by NADAguides.com

The 2012 Mercedes Benz SL-Class is a hardtop luxury roadster that comes standard with a 382 hp producing 5.5-liter V8 engine and a 7-speed automatic transmission. The RWD SL550 gets an EPA estimated 14 mpg city and 22 mpg highway. For those who crave performance the SL63 offers all the luxury of the standard SL blended with AMG performance. The SL63 AMG comes equipped with a 6.3-liter V8 engine that produces 518 hp and 465 lb-ft of torque, for a 0-60 time of 4.5 seconds. Pairing the AMG SPEEDSHIFT 7-speed sport transmission with RWD enables the SL63 AMG to achieve an EPA estimated 12 mpg city and 19 mpg highway. Options include distronic adaptive cruise control, panorama roof, multi-contour ventilated seats, sport steering-wheel, premium sound, hands-free phone capabilities, navigation, heated/cooled seats, and a 40GB hard drive. Safety features are comprised of active body control, pop-up roll bar, anti-lock braking system, brake assist, multi-link suspension, and 7-way airbag protection. The SL-Class is backed by a 4-year/50,000-mile warranty.

Benefits of Driving a 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class Convertible

The SL-Class is a show-stopper in design and performance. Interior luxury is standard, with leather upholstery and wood trim everywhere. The V8 engine can cover 0-60 mph in just over 5 seconds in the base SL550. The SL63 AMG version features intense power and performance and the reputation of Mercedes-Benz backing it all.

What's new for 2012?

For 2012, Mercedes-Benz dropped the SL60 AMG model, leaving only the SL55 and the SL63 AMG. Otherwise, the SL-Class remains pretty much the same as last year's model.

Model Strengths

Unmatched roadster styling and performance
blistering performance from SL63 AMG

Model Review

The rear-wheel-drive, 2-seater SL550 roadster has a 5.5L V8 engine that makes 382 hp yet achieves a surprising 22 mpg while cruising on the highway, thanks to its driver-adaptive electronic 7-speed transmission. The Optimum Gear program selects the best gear for maximum acceleration or engine braking, while the Comfort setting starts the car in second gear -- or a reverse second gear -- and keeps the rpms low in slippery conditions.

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