SLS AMG Receives Major Minor Change | Mercedes Benz

Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT | Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT

SLS AMG Receives Major Minor Change

Mercedes-Benz has announced that it will replace theSLS AMGwith an improved version. The model name has also been changed to "SLS AMG GT" in a major minor change.

Text by SUZUKI Fumihiko (OPENERS)

Top Speed 320 km/h!

Announced at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September 2009, theSLS AMGis the first independently developed model by AMG, a division renowned for its high-performance versions based on Mercedes-Benz cars. It follows in the lineage of the "SLR McLaren," a supercar born from the collaboration between Mercedes-Benz and McLaren, and its long-nose, gullwing design pays homage to the legendary "300 SL" of yesteryear.

This "SLS AMG" has undergone its first major minor change and is now renamed the "SLS AMG GT."

The primary focus of this minor change is performance enhancement, with no significant alterations to the exterior. Nevertheless, the red brake calipers and the now-blackened fin blades are striking details.

The most notable change is to the engine. Through reprogramming, the 6.3-liter V8 engine maintains its peak torque of 650 Nm at 4,750 rpm, but its maximum output has increased to 435 kW (591 hp) at 6,800 rpm, a gain of 15 kW (20 hp). Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h is now 3.7 seconds, 0.1 seconds faster than before, while 0 to 200 km/h takes 11.2 seconds, and the top speed is increased by 3 km/h to 320 km/h.

The transmission is the dual-clutch "AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed sports transmission," which has also been refined, particularly in its response speed in manual mode using the paddle shifters.

To match the increased output, the suspension system now features the "AMG RIDE CONTROL performance suspension" as standard, an evolution of the previously optional "AMG RIDE CONTROL sports suspension." This new system is designed to provide an optimal driving experience even on uneven roads, with the sport mode recommended for such conditions. Notably, the sport mode is said to offer a ride comfort equivalent to the comfort mode of the "AMG RIDE CONTROL sports suspension."

The interior is upholstered in black leather and Alcantara, accented by red stitching and red seatbelts. Additionally, an optional "AMG designo Exclusive Style Leather" package is available, featuring designo leather. Buyers can choose between single or two-tone options, with contrast stitching on the diamond-patterned sections.

The model continues to be offered in two variants: the closed-top coupe and the open-top roadster. Sales in Germany are set to begin in October 2012, with prices starting at €204,680 (approximately ¥20.1 million) for the coupe and €213,010 (approximately ¥20.95 million) for the roadster. The designo Exclusive Style Leather option adds an additional €5,771.50 (approximately ¥570,000).