Debuts are the domain of international motor shows, and from Detroit to Geneva, this season’s unveilings have been spectacular so far.
With Geneva’s doors closed, motor manufacturers now turn their attention to crossing the Atlantic. Mercedes-Benz has already disclosed that they are ahead of the pack with their intention to unveil its 2013 SL65 AMG at next month’s show. Delicious details and pictures to pique one’s interest have just been released.
Prior to this international introduction, the news is that the flagship SL will be re-introduced with the first production models available in November in the USA. The new car has been completely redesigned in engineering, looks, and legendary luxury levels of comfort.
Its new twin-turbocharged 6.0 litre V12 engine enjoys more power thanks to new manifolds and an AMG sport exhaust system. The upshot is that the car can now boast 621 bhp, from its old 604 bhp. This combines with an AMG Speedshift Plus seven-speed sequential automatic to produce a 0-62 mph dash of 3.9 seconds. Performance in fuel efficiency is also improved, by seventeen percent, after the addition of a start/stop function and the reduction of 374 lbs of body weight through all-aluminium bodywork technology. The chassis has been upgraded with a new electromechanical sports steering, high performance brakes, and AMG Sports suspension. Options include AMG carbon-ceramic brakes.
On the outside, the V12 is distinguished from the V8 varietal by the twin-blade radiator grill, front skirt with larger air intakes, exclusive side sills, and high-gloss chrome styling cues highlighting certain bodywork features. AMG five-spoke polished alloy wheel finished in titanium grey complete the muscular yet feline appearance. Options include matte black AMG forged alloy wheels as an alternative.
Inside mono chrome or two-tone nappa leather suathes the hi-tech monocoque. The electrically-adjustable AMG sports seats are adorned with the AMG diamond, as are the headliner and door panels, to leave you in no doubt as to the pedigree of this car. Carbon fibre and wood veneer form a duet to enhance the cabin atmosphere. This is also boosted with the Bang & Olufsen BeSound AMG surround-sound audio system. An AMG performance steering wheel, multicolour ambient lighting, and even AIRSCARF, a neck-level heating function complete the picture.
The likely price of perfection will be around £130,000.