Ch-Ch-Changes: 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL Roadster

• Competes with: BMW 6 Series, Aston Martin V8 Vantage, Jaguar XK
• Looks like: Sadly, a Chrysler Sebring
• Drivetrain: 382-hp, 5.5-liter V-8 with seven-speed automatic; 510-hp, 5.5-liter twin-turbo V-12 with five-speed automatic; or 604-hp, 6.0-liter twin-turbo V-12 with five-speed automatic
• Hits dealerships: Spring 2008

Mercedes continues to update its entire lineup with new bodywork that incorporates a larger logo and revised grille. There’s a little more updating with the SL than with others we’ve seen recently, like the CLS-Class. The hood is new with “power domes,” new headlights and revised fenders. There are new trapezoid tailpipes and a new bumper around back. Inside, there’s a new steering wheel and instrument cluster.

The lineup will remain the SL550 with the 382-hp V-8, the SL600 with the 510-hp V-12 and the SL65 with the 604-hp V-12 engine. Prices will probably remain similar to the current $95,300, $133,200 and $187,200, respectively.  That’s without destination and gas-guzzler charges. More photos below.

Comments

[Adam]

That's one funky front-end. It looked better before

[J]

What the -beep- is with the headlights' design? The old one looked better than this!

[jp]

who needs 604 hp? even on the "autobahn" that is extremely excessive

[J]

jp,

Tell that to GM about their ZR-1

Looks nothing like the sebring.

Broq

[Happymantis]

What did Mercedes do to the formerly beautiful SL? It definitely makes the car look cheaper, for some reason... like some Chrysler engineers broke into the MB design centers to help the Sebring look better in comparison.

[Infosaur]

Why does everyone assume it's Chrysler influence bringing down Mercedes? Seems like there were less problems with 300's and Magnums than there were with E-class's and their over complicated electronics.

[Infosaur]

Besides which, I like it. And it DOES draw influence from a Design Study Mercedes did a few years back. Can't remember the name but the dogleg headlights and bolder grill were big features when they were still doing "Mr. Peanut headlights" on the C-class.