Mercedes-Benz is widening the personality of the SL Roadster beyond its AMG-led performance brief.
A new comfort-focused version has been confirmed for 2027, giving the facelifted 2028 model-year SL range three distinct takes on the canvas-roof convertible.
Rather than chasing lap times or ultra-luxury theatre, this coming SL is being positioned as the more relaxed, balanced car in the line-up.
At a glance
- Mercedes-Benz is preparing a new SL Roadster variant for 2027, joining AMG and Maybach versions.
- The model will focus on open-top comfort, refinement and a calmer balance of sportiness.
- An inline-six engine could be part of the plan, while the SL 43’s turbocharged four-cylinder is expected to be dropped.
A gentler SL for the facelifted range
Mercedes-Benz CEO Ola Källenius confirmed the new variant during the Golden Steering Wheel awards ceremony in Berlin.
His comments point to a regular Mercedes-Benz interpretation of the SL, one aimed at relaxed open-top driving rather than the sharper attitude of the AMG models.
That’s a meaningful shift for the current-generation SL, which has been closely tied to AMG since its launch.
With the Maybach version covering the extravagant end of the spectrum, the incoming Benz-badged model should give the SL a more traditional grand touring character.
Visual changes should separate it from AMG and Maybach
The new variant is also expected to carry its own exterior treatment.
A camouflaged car shown in an image published by Auto Bild appears to feature a cleaner front bumper and a more traditional Mercedes three-pointed star dominating the grille.
Star-pattern daytime running lights are also visible, giving the car a softer and more classically Mercedes face.
That would mark a clear separation from the AMG’s Panamericana grille and the more imposing design language of the Maybach version.
For buyers who like the SL shape but don’t necessarily want the visual aggression of an AMG or the ceremony of a Maybach, that distinction matters.
The engine question
The most interesting mechanical question sits under the bonnet.
Mercedes is expected to move away from the turbocharged four-cylinder engine used in the SL 43, which has been described as a slow seller.
An inline-six could be on the cards, though Mercedes has not confirmed the powertrain details for the new variant.
If it happens, an inline-six would fit neatly with the model’s more refined brief, giving the car a smoother grand touring identity without needing to lean into AMG-style excess.
For now, the confirmed point is the positioning, not the engine specification.
Details & Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
|---|---|
| Model | SL Roadster |
| Body style | Canvas-roof convertible |
| New variant timing | 2027 |
| Model-year range | Facelifted 2028 SL range |
| Confirmed range structure | Mercedes-Benz, AMG and Maybach versions |
| Positioning | Comfort-focused open-top touring with a balance of sportiness and refinement |
The new SL variant looks like a deliberate attempt to give the roadster back some of its everyday grand touring ease.
For drivers who want an elegant Mercedes convertible without the hardest AMG edge or the Maybach flourish, this could become the most natural SL in the range.
