Despite a market for convertibles that is moving sideways at best, Mercedes-Benz is not only staying with it but is adding to its roadster roster. As depicted by three renderings, the firm will update the Mercedes-Benz SL; facelift the SLK, which will be renamed the SLC; and add a roadster variant of the stunning Mercedes-AMG GT, which could come to market within the next two years.
-The Mercedes SLK was a pioneer in its segment, and it was one of the first roadsters to boast a retractable hard top. Heavier and more complex than a fabric top, it lent a coupe-like appearance to the small convertible whenever its top was up. Now in its third model generation, the SLK remains a good choice among upscale roadsters, and some of its appeal is due to the availability of a V-8 engine in such a compact package.
-The modest facelift [shown above] that will appear next spring will bring the SLK in line with the brand’s updated design language. And it will bring about a name change: The SLK will henceforth be known as the SLC. The model designation serves to emphasize the roadster’s technological relation with the C-class.
-We expect to see a slightly tweaked engine portfolio that will include more powerful turbocharged four-bangers, a V-6, and an AMG V-8. Some of the powertrains will see a switch to the nine-speed automatic. Europe also gets a diesel version—which has no chance of making it to our shores. The SLC will be launched in early 2016.
-Benz’s classic roadster, the SL, is one of the most capable performers ever made by Daimler—particularly the AMG version, which greatly benefits from its sport-tuned chassis. Unfortunately, the car’s convoluted design looks like it has been styled by three different committees. The SL was one of the last models to be signed off before Gorden Wagener took over Mercedes-Benz design from Peter Pfeiffer, and its shape is seen as the main culprit for the model’s faltering sales.
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An extensive facelift is planned for 2016, which will bring a new and far more aggressive grille inspired by the famous 300 SL Panamericana and first seen on the AMG GT3. We also hope to see an extensively reworked rear end with new taillights and bumpers. At the same time, Mercedes-Benz will update the interior with a better infotainment system and new shapes and materials. Under the skin, the SL won’t deviate much from the current model—and that’s a good thing.
-Let’s hope the update can restore some of the luster to this model, which is an icon in the Mercedes-Benz portfolio. There are a few more years left in this model before an entirely new generation comes to market around 2020.
-Because the SL “needs all the help it can get,” as a senior executive tells us, Daimler has held back on launching a roadster version of the AMG GT. The car has been designed and is ready to go as soon as management gives the green light.
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Like the coupe, the roadster will use AMG’s twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V-8 and an automatic transmission. Unlike the SL, the GT roadster will have a fabric top. And it would look great—just check out our rendering.
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- Mercedes-AMG GT/GT-S Research: Full Pricing, Specs, Reviews, and More
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Would it hurt the SL? Undoubtedly. But given AMG’s aspirations to turn the GT into a full-fledged 911 fighter, we can’t see them passing up the chance to turn their unique sports car into something even greater.
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from Car and Driver Blog http://ift.tt/1cexxBl
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