For the primary time in 60 years, Mercedes-Benz is anticipated to launch a four-cylinder SL.
Not since the unique 190 has Mercedes-Benz constructed a four-cylinder SL. However over the past 10 years, Mercedes-Benz launched smaller, turbocharged engines throughout its lineup. Turbo four-cylinder engines turned the norm for the C-Class and E-Class. And now for the primary time in 60 years, the entry-level SL is anticipated to obtain four-cylinder energy. Ought to the rumors show true, a brand new mannequin, the SL43 debuts in March.
In accordance with a number of fanatic web sites, the SL43 will use the M254 2.0-liter 4 with an electrical turbocharger. Changing the twin-turbocharged, 4.0-liter V8 because the entry-level engine, the four-cylinder will develop 390 horsepower within the SL. A light-hybrid system may additionally be out there including 20 horses and enhancing low-end torque. Small visible adjustments like exhaust and trim badges may also separate the SL43 from the V8 fashions.
If the knowledge is correct, the 2022 Mercedes-Benz SL43 will debut within the coming weeks, and it’ll go on sale in some markets in March 2022. Mercedes-Benz has but to substantiate the automotive, however in an period of premium four-cylinder premium automobiles, it is sensible. When launched final October, the present SL was solely out there within the “55” and “63” variations. Earlier generations of the SL included a six-cylinder choice. And at this time, 4 is the brand new six with four-pot engines producing over 300 horsepower.
Starting with the legendary 300 SL Gullwing, Mercedes-Benz’s flagship symbolized status and highly effective motoring. Each era that adopted got here outfitted with the biggest engines of the time. It’s laborious to level to 1 heyday for the SL – each era has its place and time. The elegant W113 “Pagoda” SL adopted the unique W198 300 SL and supplied sufficient energy for serene motoring. Launched in 1971, the bigger R107 changed the W113. For 18 years it showcased affluence on ’70s and ’80s TV exhibits and in locations like Beverly Hills. Extra fashionable successors adopted, every quicker and extra highly effective than the final.
Some individuals would possibly argue that Mercedes-Benz misplaced the plot with the R230 and R231 SLs. Like film sequels, every new model wanted to high the previous mannequin – quicker, safer, and extra technologically superior. Maybe that’s why Mercedes-Benz hit the pause button in 2020 and waited two years on the R232. However the brand new automotive is elegant. A sublime 2+2 grand tourer with a soft-top, it returns to the SL’s primary mission. And if the SL43 does come to gentle, it received’t simply be a four-cylinder SL. It’ll additionally return the SL to its unique roots.
Photographs: Mercedes-Benz
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