Mercedes-AMG is finally returning to its roadster flagship roots with the all-new 2022 AMG SL63 after a 3-year run of outdated and non-AMG SL models. Back in the day, the Mercedes SL-class was internationally revered, and models like the SL300 Gullwing became icons. Lately though, the SL class has fallen way back in Mercedes’ lineup and is now mostly seen as a non-enticing sports roadster - but things have changed for 2022.

For the first time ever, the SL-class will only come as an AMG, which means that every version packs plenty of performance that makes the roadster fit to compete against the likes of the Porsche 911 Cabriolet, BMW M8 Competition Convertible, and Audi R8 Performance Spyder.

The all-new Mercedes-AMG SL63 roadster features Mercedes’ newest tech built into a top-notch cabin, and from the outside, it provides a glorious, completely redesigned body. Here’s what makes it one of the top luxury roadsters around.

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The 2022 Mercedes-AMG SL63 Is Insanely Powerful

2022 Mercedes-AMG SL63
source: wsupercars

Despite Mercedes’ recent intentions to downsize engines in favor of hybrid setups such as the one found in the new AMG C63s E-Performance, the all-new SL gets two versions of a high-performance 4.0-liter biturbo V8. In the entry-level SL55, it makes 469 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque, while the range-topping SL63 tunes things up to make 570 horsepower and 590 pound-feet of torque. Both models come mated with a 9-speed lightning-fast automatic transmission, and for the first time in SL history, Mercedes-AMG has graced the model with all-wheel-drive, a feature that comes as standard on any version.

Mercedes says the AMG SL55 will scoot from 0-60 mph in around 3.9 seconds, but real-life testing suggests it can get the job done in less than 3.7 seconds. Then there’s the crazy SL63, it can blast from 0-60 mph in just 3.1 seconds, which comfortably makes it the fastest SL-class ever produced.

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The 2022 AMG SL63 Handles Well Despite Its Weight

2022-Mercedes-AMG-SL63-007-1600
source: wsupercars

Even though the SL stands for sport light, the new SL is anything but, and it weighs more than 4000 total pounds. However, thanks to permanent all-wheel-drive and four-wheel steering, the AMG SL63 actually manages to feel smaller and lighter than it actually is when driven. This sensation is further enhanced by active air suspension with multiple drive modes, as well as responsive, well-weighted steering. The result is a heavy roadster that can put down its power and handle with precision and poise, though it might not be as agile around the track as lighter rivals.

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The Mercedes-AMG SL63’s Cabin Is Immensely Luxurious

2022-AMG-SL63-ROADSTER Interior
Via: Mercedes-Benz

Step inside the SL63’s open-air interior, and you’ll find a wonderful layout finished off with high-grade materials pretty much everywhere. Leather and brushed metals encase the dash, door panels, and seats, while suede materials and glossy inserts decorate the rest of the interior. The front sport seats provide multi-way adjustments and heated functions, as well as Mercedes’ desirable air scarf. The center console displays a gigantic 11.9-inch portrait-mounted touchscreen with Mercedes’ MBUX system, featuring Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and there’s also a 12.3-inch fully configurable digital driver’s display as well as a glorious Burmester sound system. The sporty heated steering wheel has an array of onboard controls that allow the driver to select driving modes and individual performance preferences, as well as configure the vehicle’s display.

While previous versions of the SL have opted for hard-tops, Mercedes has reverted to a soft-top convertible roof in the all-new AMG SL63, which raises and lowers through the use of the center touchscreen or the buttons below. There’s also a new back row of seats, but they’re way too cramped to provide any true functionality, and even children will have a hard time back there.

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The New AMG SL63 Looks Stunning

2022-AMG-SL63-ROADSTER
Mercedes-Benz

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG SL63s completely new exterior showcases the automaker’s plan to revive the model as a sporty, high-performing member of its lineup. Looking more robust and aggressive than before, the new SL63 features a long sloping hood with tasteful bodylines that feed into a widened front bumper with AMG’s panamericana grille and a massive secondary grille flanked by vented air intakes. Down the side, the SL63 boasts gorgeous 21-inch center-locking alloy wheels with a unique multispoke matte black design, black sideskirts, and even a blacked-out A-pillar. Lastly, from the rear, the roadster showcases sleek LED taillights, quad-exhaust tips integrated into a gloss-black rear diffuser, and a retractable spoiler with 4-different positions.

All in all, the all-new 2022 Mercedes-AMG SL63 and SL55 models come as a massive improvement to the automaker's historic SL lineup, taking it back to its sporty grand touring past with enticing performance and a top-of-the-line interior.