Mercedes-Benz released details of its SL update, which goes on sale in mid-2012. The new version of this tony convertible features many new tech functions, including connected cabin tech.
Wayne Cunningham
Wayne Cunningham reviews cars and writes about automotive technology for CNET's Roadshow. Prior to the automotive beat, he covered spyware, Web building technologies, and computer hardware. He began covering technology and the Web in 1994 as an editor of The Net magazine.
Mercedes-Benz's next SL update continues a model run that started in 1954. The first generation of the SL included the 300SL Gullwing, one of the most collectible Mercedes-Benz cars. This 2013 update employs Mercedes-Benz's latest engine technology along with some new innovations.
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The engine in the 2013 SL550 is a direct-injection twin turbocharged 4.6-liter V-8, which Mercedes-Benz has been rolling out in all of its 550 designated cars. This engine produces 429 horsepower, and gets the SL550 to 60 mph in 4.5 seconds, according to Mercedes-Benz estimates.
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Mercedes-Benz says the 2013 SL550 is its first model to use an all-aluminum body, which should keep overall weight below 4,000 pounds. In fact, the SL designation stands for Sport Lightweight, and Mercedes-Benz seems to be taking those terms to heart in this redesign.
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The SL550 benefits from what Mercedes-Benz calls Magic Sky Control, a roof panel that goes from dark to transparent at the touch of a button. This panel sits in the SL550's retractable hard top, which opens and closes in just 20 seconds.
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The SL550's audio system includes another Mercedes-Benz innovation called FrontBass, turning spaces in the body into resonance chambers for the woofers. Mercedes-Benz says the SL550 is the first time an audio system has been so completely integrated with the car, designed into the body.
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The SL550 is a connected car, with Internet apps built into the navigation system. Along with Web browsing, the car offers Google Local Search, Yelp, and Facebook.
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The car comes with a seven-speed automatic transmission, and like other new Mercedes-Benz models, it should have a lock-up clutch for tight, efficient gear changes. This picture also shows a button for Sport and Comfort modes, pointing to an adaptive suspension.
