The four-cylinder Mercedes-AMG SL is already priced, and it's so "cheap" that the difference with the V8 is enough to buy a Toyota GR86

After the arrival on our market of the  Mercedes-AMG SL 55 4Matic+ and SL 63 4Matic+ , it is now the turn of the access variant of this new chapter of the historic model of the house of the star: the  Mercedes-AMG SL 43  has just landed in Spain and can now be configured.

It is the "little brother" of the family of the new Mercedes SL, which is already signing its eighth generation. Its ingredients? A  four-cylinder mild hybrid at  heart and  rear-wheel drive  with 381 hp, a configuration with which it stands out from its V8-powered and all-wheel-drive brethren.

 

The  cheapest new Mercedes SL  starts at  145,009 euros  , which is 72,200 euros less than the top of the range, the SL 63 4MATIC+, or 40,350 euros less in the case of the intermediate, the SL 55 4MATIC+. And as a good micro-hybrid, it bears   the DGT ECO label .

The keys to the most rational Mercedes SL

In this new delivery, developed by Mercedes-AMG, the Mercedes SL returns to the canvas roof and takes over the V8 mechanics , but also the four-cylinder engine that we had not seen since the first generation and which personifies this SL 43 which is now launched in Europe.

The only SL with an ECO label. The engine of the Mercedes-AMG SL 43 is a 2.0 liter with  381 hp and 480 Nm  in longitudinal layout and with an electric turbocharger. The gearbox is the same as the one that integrates the older brothers, the  nine-speed AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT sequential automatic  , but in its case it transmits all the power to the rear wheels.

This petrol unit is supported by a  48V electrical system  , which incorporates a small belt-driven RSG electric motor-alternator-starter, coupled between the gearbox and the engine. It produces  10 kW (14 CV)  and contributes to heat at specific times.

The most efficient SL. Since we are talking about a mild hybrid and a smaller engine, in terms of consumption and emissions, the Mercedes-AMG SL 43 takes the crown in the range. It signs an expenditure of  8.9 l / 100 km  and emissions of  201 g / km of CO₂  , while the SL 55 and SL 63 homologate respectively 12.3 and 12.6 l / 100 km.

On the contrary, it is the most timid in performance of the family, even if they are still remarkable: a top speed of  275 km/h  and an acceleration from 0 to 100 in  4.9 seconds  . This is a little less than what the SL 55 promises: 295 km/h and 3.9 seconds.

Canvas hood. Like the rest, the Mercedes-AMG SL 43 only has a canvas top, which has allowed the assembly to save weight (about 20 kg), while giving this model back some of its aesthetic essence. . It unfolds or unfolds in just 15 seconds  and can do so while driving up to 60 km/h. The SL 43, since it does without all-wheel drive, is the lightest of the family: for the balance at  1,810 kg  .

Technical balls. Although it does not include the rear steering axle of the standard SL 55 and SL 63 (it is optional), it has several advantages at no extra cost.

For example, the AMG Active Ride Control sports suspension  or active aerodynamic  elements   , such as the AIRPANEL front air control system or the folding rear spoiler, which can be swung up to five different angles.

digital inside. Like the other SLs, this Mercedes-AMG SL 43 benefits from a diaphanous and elegant interior, where it controls a huge  11.9-inch touch screen  , tablet style and in a vertical layout (with adjustable inclination), from which it inherits the S-Class.

From there, the latest version of the MBUX system is managed, which shows specific AMG skins. This screen is combined with  12.3-inch digital instrumentation  and for the first time the SL can be fitted with a head-up display.

Mercedes-AMG SL 43 price and equipment

The  Mercedes-AMG SL 43  starts at 145,009 euros so, despite being the cheapest, we are talking about a top-flight car. Thus, in addition to the aforementioned advantages, it comes with complete equipment.

As standard, it has 19-inch rims, a black canvas hood (choice of gray or red as an option), electric and heated mirrors, an AMG Performance multifunction heated steering wheel in nappa leather, seats with lumbar support adjustable and also heated. , four-zone climate control, keyless entry and start,  wireless charging for mobile phones  or front and rear parking sensors.

As for technology, it is equipped with a 360º camera,  fingerprint scanner  (to activate different profiles), MBUX system with DAB radio, integrated browser, remote and wireless update Apple Carplay and Android Auto, Burmester premium audio system or Magic Vision Control technology for the windshield, among others.

And it also has several  assistance systems  such as automatic emergency braking with crossing function, adaptive cruise control, active lane departure warning, intelligent automatic headlight management (high/low), the blind spot detector, the Urban Guard Plus occupant protection and the traffic sign reader.