The Mercedes-Benz Gullwing is a true supercar and a style icon that started the Sport-Leicht (Sport Lightweight) name. Over the years, the SL has evolved from a luxury car at the top of the Mercedes-Benz lineup and made its way into the performance category with few rivals.

The 2022 SL is AMG only, which means it's only offered as a performance car. There are two versions, which are the SL 55 base model and the SL 63. Under the hood of the 2022 Mercedes-AMG SL 63 Roadster sits a handcrafted twin turbo 4-liter V8 with a nine-speed automatic transmission. This powerful engine will reach 60 mph in an impressive 3.5 seconds.

The SL 63 has an EPA-estimated fuel economy rating of 14 mpg around town to 21 mpg on the highway, primarily due to 577 ponies and 590 lb-ft of torque. The power is thrust through all four wheels because this is a 4Matic Mercedes.

Developed as a more focused sports car, the new SL also features a luxurious and technologically advanced interior. In contrast to previous generations, the new SL has a folding fabric roof instead of the power-folding hardtop found in prior models, allowing it to retain its open-air character while saving weight.

Let’s take a look at the 2022 Mercedes-AMG SL 63 Roadster.

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The 2022 AMG SL 63 Roadster Has A Digital And Modern Interior

Red 2022 Mercedes-AMG SL 63 Roadster side view interior
via: Mercedes-Benz

A great surprise is the new SL has back seats. This is a new addition since the SL has never come with a 2+2 configuration, but the all-new SL has four seats as standard. You will notice, however, that the back seats are pretty tiny. Some may say they're unusable, but they're slightly more spacious than the ones offered in a Porsche 911.

The SL also has large, plush massaging front seats and Mercedes' latest driver-assistance technology, which you won't find on the upcoming AMG GT. The interior is luxurious, bringing subtle elements of class, including Mercedes' novel Airscarf feature, which gently blows warm air on the driver and front passenger's neck during cold weather drives while the top is down.

A significant change to the new SL is the soft top. When the 2003 SL came out almost 20 years ago, we thought Mercedes had mastered a folding hard top and there would never be a soft top convertible again. We were clearly wrong, and now they’ve reverted to the soft top, which looks more stylish and sporty. At speeds of up to 37 mph, the power, insulated, folding soft top can rise in 15 seconds.

Mercedes refers to the interior of the SL as “hyperanalog,” referring to the combination of authentic materials and digital features, and it blends well. In the center, an 11.9-inch touchscreen runs the latest MBUX software borrowed from the S-Class. Navigation, as well as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, are present. All SL models come standard with a Burmester stereo system, but the SL 63 has the option to include surround sound.

An important consideration is when the roof is down, the screen is frequently subjected to sun glare, but Mercedes anticipated this by including an electronic pivot function that allows the display to be nearly vertical for better visibility. A secondary 12.3-inch screen is visible behind the steering wheel. It offers extensive customization, allowing drivers to view multiple gauge cluster themes or a full-color map. The new SL is, as expected, a technological marvel.

The SL 63 Roadster Has A Beautiful Exterior To Match

Red 2022 Mercedes-AMG SL 63 Roadster side view
via: Mercedes-Benz

Mercedes-Benz has mastered automotive design, and this is evident with the SL 63. Starting from the rear, you get sleek tail lights that look perfect for this model. They have also installed a retractable spoiler that rises when you go above 50 miles an hour. It actually moves between four different positions depending on how quickly downforce increases.

A great feature is the front-axle lift system, a first for an AMG, which makes daily driving more effortless and less worrying while going over speed bumps.

The SL has traditional design elements, but they also changed the awkward lines of the previous model in favor of a smoothed-over AMG GT look. There are no bulging fenders or large wings, just a confident and attractive body that is less imposing but more classically beautiful than any of the AMG GT roadsters. The front of the SL also features AMG's signature Panamericana grille and angular headlights.

Mercedes-Benz offers 12 paint colors for the SL, including two exclusive shades, Hyper Blue Metallic and Monza Grey Magno. The SL stands out more than a comparable BMW 8 series, whether in a subtle white or a bright yellow. This latest SL also comes with six wheel options ranging from 20 to 21 inches.

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The SL 63 Roadster Features New Suspension

2022 Mercedes-AMG SL 63 Roadster side view
via: Mercedes-Benz

The SL 63 comes with Active Ride Control suspension, which absorbs bumps in comfort mode and reduces body roll in corners.

With precise weighting, sharp turn-in, and plenty of feedback via the thick-rimmed steering wheel, combined with the rear-wheel steering, variable AWD system, and limited-slip diff, the SL has maintains levels of grip while remaining playful and exciting. If you want the SL to get sideways, it will. Even in the stiffer Sport Plus mode, the hydraulic anti-roll bars keep the SL nearly flat in high-camber corners, leaving the ride supple.

Sources: CNet, Car and Driver, Carbuzz, EPA