Mercedes-Benz AMG GLA 35

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz AMG SL in India is primarily offered in the SL 55 4MATIC+ variant, powered by an AMG 4.0-litre V8 biturbo engine. This handcrafted engine produces approximately 469 bhp of power and 700 Nm of torque. It is paired with an AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 9G (9-speed multi-clutch automatic) transmission, sending power to all four wheels via the AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel-drive system.

In real-world driving, the SL 55 offers exhilarating performance. It can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in a claimed 3.9 seconds, with a top speed of 295 km/h. The V8 engine delivers a thrilling exhaust note and instant power delivery across the rev range. The 9-speed MCT transmission provides rapid and precise shifts. Fuel economy is expected to be around 7-8 kmpl in mixed driving conditions, typical for a high-performance sports car. The combination of powerful engine and AWD ensures exceptional traction and dynamic capabilities.

Ride and Handling

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz AMG SL is engineered to deliver a dynamic and engaging driving experience while retaining a remarkable level of comfort for a sports car. It features AMG RIDE CONTROL+ suspension with adaptive damping, which uses active roll stabilization to minimize body roll and enhance agility. This system allows for a wide range of suspension tuning, from comfortable cruising to track-focused stiffness.

Handling is sharp and precise, with direct and communicative steering. The AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel-drive system ensures excellent grip and traction, allowing for confident cornering. The standard active rear-axle steering system further enhances agility at low speeds by turning the rear wheels in the opposite direction of the front wheels, and improves stability at high speeds by turning them in the same direction. Emergency braking is powerful and consistent, thanks to high-performance AMG brakes. The overall ride and handling balance is a testament to AMG's engineering, offering both exhilarating performance and surprising daily usability.

The interior of the 2025 Mercedes-Benz AMG SL is a blend of digital sophistication and luxurious craftsmanship, now featuring a 2+2 seating layout for added practicality. The cabin is driver-focused, yet offers ample comfort for all occupants. High-quality materials such as Nappa leather, carbon fibre, and aluminium accents are used throughout. The dashboard is dominated by an 11.9-inch central multimedia touchscreen that can be electrically adjusted for tilt, minimizing glare when the top is down. The driver gets a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster with AMG-specific displays.

The front AMG performance seats offer excellent support and are available with heating, ventilation, and AIRSCARF neck-level heating. While the rear seats are compact and best suited for children or occasional use, their inclusion enhances the car's versatility. Ambient lighting creates a customizable atmosphere. The fit and finish are exceptional, reflecting the premium nature of the vehicle. Boot space is a practical 213 litres, which is decent for a convertible sports car.

Infotainment

The infotainment system in the 2025 Mercedes-Benz AMG SL is powered by the latest generation of the MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) system. It centers around the large, portrait-oriented 11.9-inch central touchscreen, which is highly responsive and features crisp graphics. The system supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with integrated navigation that can include augmented video for real-time overlays.

The "Hey Mercedes" voice assistant offers natural language understanding for intuitive control of various functions. The digital instrument cluster provides customizable displays, including AMG-specific performance readouts. A Burmester surround sound system is available, delivering a high-fidelity audio experience. The system also includes AMG TRACK PACE for recording and analyzing driving data on racetracks, appealing to performance enthusiasts. The emphasis is on a seamless, intuitive, and high-tech user experience.

The exterior design of the 2025 Mercedes-Benz AMG SL is a modern interpretation of the classic SL silhouette, characterized by muscular proportions and a sleek, athletic stance. The front features the AMG-specific Panamericana grille with vertical slats, flanked by sharp, slim LED headlamps. The long bonnet and short rear overhang create a dynamic profile, while the active rear spoiler seamlessly integrates into the design, deploying at higher speeds for enhanced downforce.

The highlight is the new fabric soft top, which replaces the previous hardtop, contributing to weight reduction and a lower center of gravity. It can be opened or closed in approximately 15 seconds at speeds up to 60 km/h. Overall dimensions are approximately 4705 mm in length, 1915 mm in width, and 1359 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2700 mm. These dimensions provide a strong road presence while maintaining agile proportions for a sports car. AMG-specific alloy wheels, typically 20-inch or 21-inch, complete the dynamic look.

Safety in the 2025 Mercedes-Benz AMG SL is comprehensive, integrating advanced active and passive safety systems to protect occupants. While specific crash test ratings for the AMG SL are not typically available, Mercedes-AMG vehicles are built to stringent safety standards.

The AMG SL comes equipped with multiple airbags (expected to be 10, including front, side, knee, and curtain airbags), ABS with EBD, Electronic Stability Program (ESP), and a Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS). A wide array of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) is available, potentially including Active Brake Assist, Active Lane Keeping Assist, Active Steering Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control (Distronic), Blind Spot Assist, and a 360-degree camera with parking assist. These systems enhance driver awareness and help prevent accidents, providing a high level of safety for a performance convertible.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz AMG SL competes in the niche segment of high-performance luxury roadsters and grand tourers in India. Its primary competitors include:

Porsche 911 Cabriolet: Known for its iconic design, unparalleled driving dynamics, and a wide range of performance variants, offering a more raw and driver-focused experience. Maserati GranCabrio: Offers Italian flair, a distinctive exhaust note, and a blend of luxury and sportiness, though often with a slightly different emphasis on performance versus comfort.

The AMG SL differentiates itself with its unique 2+2 seating configuration, making it more practical than traditional two-seater roadsters. It also boasts a highly advanced digital interior and the comprehensive suite of Mercedes-Benz luxury features, combined with AMG's formidable performance engineering. While the Porsche might appeal to purists seeking ultimate driving engagement, and the Maserati to those desiring Italian style, the AMG SL offers a compelling blend of thrilling performance, luxurious comfort, and enhanced versatility.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz AMG SL successfully reintroduces the legendary nameplate with a renewed focus on AMG performance and modern versatility. Its powerful V8 engine, sophisticated chassis technologies, and the emotional appeal of a soft-top convertible make it a truly desirable vehicle. The inclusion of 2+2 seating and a highly digital, luxurious interior further enhances its appeal, making it more practical for everyday use than many traditional sports cars.

For buyers in India seeking a high-performance luxury roadster that offers both exhilarating open-top driving and a surprising degree of comfort and practicality, the 2025 AMG SL is an outstanding choice. Its blend of AMG's driving dynamics with Mercedes-Benz's luxury and technology makes it a unique proposition in its segment. For a general buyer prioritizing a blend of thrilling performance, luxurious appointments, and the prestige of a convertible, the AMG SL 55 4MATIC+ offers a compelling package, providing significant value for its high-performance luxury segment.