Used 2018 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class Consumer Reviews
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We have a limited number of reviews for the 2018 SL-Class, so we've included reviews for other years of the SL-Class since its last redesign.
Hard decision was the right decision
jn.meyer@hotmail.com, 09/23/2016
2017 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class SL 450 2dr Convertible (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 9A)
40 of 41 people found this review helpful
There are lots of choices in today's marketplace for the person wanting a two seat sports roadster. I ordered my SL 450 on the day that the dealer was allowed to enter orders for the 2017 model year. The homework prior to selecting the SL 450 was many months of soul searching for the right car, and in the end my list of wants played a role in my final selection. I nixed many models and brands because of over budget price and worthiness to be classified as a luxury roadster. My final decision was made on a budgeted amount I was willing to spend, overall styling, interior comfort, entry/exit, technology features, available options, ride quality, how well the engine was matched to the transmission, safety features, trunk space, outward visibility, and industry magazine articles. I have owned 1981 and 2001 Corvette's so I had that American experience behind me and fulfilled that past teenage desire to someday own a Corvette. As part of my research, I also considered and drove the Corvette Z51, the Jaguar F-Type, the Porsche Cayman S, and the Audi TT. They all had entry/exit issues and trunk space issues, and only the Corvette passed the interior comfort, technology, and ride quality test. The final decision became easy because the Sl 450 met my expectations in a luxury Roadster based on the 2016 model year, and automotive journal comments about the 2017 which I found to be accurate. The motor transmission match-up is an absolute joy, and the motor has plenty of torque to make the driver feel that he/she is not being held back by torque lag. I bought the Brilliant Blue, with the Designo Sand interior and Black Ash Trim, and it is a beautiful classic look. It has every option except for the Automatic Body Control and the Upgrade Sound System. The improvements over the 2016 SL 400 made it easy to wait for the 2017 model year. If you want a car that gets lots of looks and thumbs-up, this car pretty much does that. There is enough trunk space with the top closed to satisfy a week trip worth of luggage. With the top down, and the windows/wind screen up, you can easily carry on a conversation at interstate speeds. I own a GL 550, so moving from one to the other is very easy because the controls are very similar. I had concerns about the small video screen, but it has not been an issue. The only thing I had issues with was learning how to pre-set stations for the radio, its awkward and more complicated than it should be, but great to use once the up-to 100 pre-sets are programmed. I would not spend the additional $20,000.00 for the SL 550 unless you have a personal need to have that emblem on your car. The more I drive this car, the more I want to drive this car.
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Truly Superb
DR. AMDG, 05/09/2020
updated 06/02/2025
2017 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class SL 63 AMG 2dr Convertible (5.5L 8cyl Turbo 7A)
33 of 34 people found this review helpful
I traded a really nice SL550 for an SL63 AMG. Really enjoyed the SL550, but the SL63 is simply in a different league. Comfortable ride and luxury appointments still remain, but the AMG magic transforms this already stellar platform into something incredible. Too many superlatives to list, but suffice it to say that the SL63 AMG may be one of the best cars ever made. Frightening power (at any speed), a magnificent interior, refinement to a fault, and German/Mercedes/AMG (over)engineering are integral parts of this outrageous auto. And...664 lb/ft of torque!!! (from the BIG V8 Biturbo) Drink the AMG Kool-Aid!
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2018 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class for sale near you
Showing 3 of 28 listings
- SL 550 ConvertibleMSRP: $89,99811 mi away
- SL 450 ConvertibleMSRP: $51,990113 mi away
- SL 450 ConvertibleMSRP: $35,445197 mi away
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PURE SUBLIME ELEGANCE
Matt, 05/02/2019
updated 11/13/2019
2015 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class SL 550 2dr Convertible (4.7L 8cyl Turbo 7A)
18 of 18 people found this review helpful
This is my dream car. I love that its fast as lightning , beautiful to look at and the way it handles, but does it all in an effortless, professional way. It is so packed with luxury but is still a masculine car. do we really like to get punished in a Porsche just because we want to drive in a sports car? Maybe getting soft in my 40's but I like a quiet, smooth, UN-jarring ride mixed with massive power and agility. I'm not competing on a race track. anyone saying this SL is anything less than totally sophisticated understated and beautiful is maybe upset that they don't own it. Update: excellent reliability still just as beautiful as the day I bought it.
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Live in your car, love what you drive!!!
Flo Bullock, 12/01/2019
2015 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class SL 400 2dr Convertible (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 7A)
13 of 13 people found this review helpful
Best car I have ever owned. It's solid, feels super safe. It' a fun drive! The trunk is deceiving. It fits more than you can imagine. Haven't had any problems with it other than a couple of minor things that were covered. It's almost 5 years old.
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Wonderful
John Bailen, 05/22/2020
updated 08/15/2023
2015 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class SL 400 2dr Convertible (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 7A)
8 of 8 people found this review helpful
Replaced my Jaguar XK with a SL 400. Big step up in sophistication. Tech is far superior in the SL. Great rear drive handling. Mine has a CD player (Edmunds review says it shouldn’t). Also, the top is a two piece, not three, which limits the stylists in the size of the quarter windows. After eight months I remain very pleased with my SL. The shift points on the transmission are sometimes odd. Maybe Mercedes should consider providing ZF units as do many of their competitors. Still enjoying my SL. It recently required a repair to the retractable hardtop. It is a hydraulic system. It had a leak in one of the lines. A not inexpensive repair. Maybe a little early for that type of repair with only 34,000 miles. My last several months have been trouble-free motoring. My SL continues to turn heads especially when the top is down. I continue to enjoy my SL. I recently replaced the front sway bar links, an issue my mechanic had not seen before. Otherwise, no issues. I’m not sure that there’s a better looking two seater out there with the top down. My SL is great but not waterproof! Apparently not unique to my car. I will be applying a conditioner sold by Mercedes to the weather seals with the hope that I can stay dry while driving in the rain. My experience remains positive with maintenance and a few repairs. Brakes and tires were recently replaced with good service life experienced from both. Repairs have included a cam sensor which I'm told is not unusual for European cars and small leak of gas fumes which triggered a check engine light. The repair was to replace the fuel filter and a sealing ring.
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Everyone who enjoys driving should have an SL
John Galati, 10/14/2020
2015 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class SL 550 2dr Convertible (4.7L 8cyl Turbo 7A)
8 of 8 people found this review helpful
My wife and I bought a 2015 550SL with every option except Magic Sky Roof. We are delighted with the car! The comfort for two persons, particularly on long drives is exceptional. All aspects of performance including acceleration, braking, and handling are well beyond a level anyone can use on public roads. Driving with the roof down on a winding road is an experience that every driver should have. We find it hard to imagine that any comparable car can provide as much luxury and performance as we are enjoying in our SL.
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Terrific daily driver
Gary, 11/03/2017
updated 11/05/2018
2017 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class SL 450 2dr Convertible (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 9A)
13 of 14 people found this review helpful
Feels luxurious and sporty at same time. Steering in Comfort mode with a little too much assistance, but very good in Sport and Sport+ modes. Really enjoy driving this car. Have had the car for about 16 months and no problems. It is really fun, but still refined. Would definitely get this car again.
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A classic Benz
William Ferguson, 10/01/2019
2015 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class SL 400 2dr Convertible (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 7A)
7 of 7 people found this review helpful
Styling is subjective but I think it’s gorgeous. Twin turbo V-6 has plenty of power and gets 30+ mpg on highway. Love the massaging seats and other luxury features. Ride is firm, even in Comfort mode, but not punishing. I bought an off-lease car with 30k miles for less than half of list price. Like all Mercedes products, maintenance costs are high. This car has a very high “wow” factor.
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About that nose.....
alan, 08/19/2022
2014 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class SL550 2dr Convertible (4.7L 8cyl Turbo 7A)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
Great power, great street cred, a joy to drive... and it can do its wild thing... just an unflappable, very well thought out vehicle for those lucky enough to have the means to own one. I agree the previous iteration had a nicer exterior, but having owned three of those (03 sl55, 04 sl500, 05 sl500) I can attest to the fact that this car is so much more advanced and competent that I can get over the rather unattractive at first glance and chubby exterior.. much like living in Las Vegas.. it grows on you. I now like my view of my car with the exception of the front fender view. I highly recommend this car. Worth every penny and there are not too many of these built for whatever reason so the exclusivity is another value to me.
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Liked It So Much, We Bought It!
Josephus, 03/21/2018
2018 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class SL 450 2dr Convertible (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 9A)
9 of 11 people found this review helpful
After owning/leasing 2 V8 SLs and 1 AMG SLK we stepped "down" to the new SL450 Twin Turbo V6. Not quite up to V8 performance levels but, surprisingly, close! According to Car & Driver's instrumented tests, and in contrast to Mercedes' typical conservative performance estimates, they say this car turns 0-60 in 4.5 seconds and breaks 107 MPH in the standing quarter mile. And, we don't doubt those stats for a minute! This car out handles our previous SLs and the AMG, and is amazingly close in virtually all other regards. We do miss the sound of the V8 engines, however, equipped with exactly the same options (the V8 excepted) our new 450 $tickered over $18,400 under the SL. And for that kind of savings, I'll sacrifice the V8 rumble for the nor-quite-as-exciting, V6 burbble. So far, we're delighted with our choice!
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Luxury and performance
Jim Mac, 01/03/2023
2015 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class SL 550 2dr Convertible (4.7L 8cyl Turbo 7A)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
SL550 is a blend of luxury and performance in one vehicle. I’ve had Mercedes AMG’s and they have performance handling, and lots of features but the ride was punishing even in the “comfort” mode. The SL550 offers all the performance that could ever be safely used but with good ride quality and very acceptable handling. This is what I would consider a specialty vehicle and probably not what you would want for your only means of transportation. At the end of the day, this is a two seat roadster with limited storage. I get upset with people who review a vehicle like this, then complain the trunk space is limited. Well if you want to carry 5 suitcases, buy an SUV. There are tons of features such as massaging seats, radar controlled cruise control, various audio functions, driving lane departure warnings with automatic brake and steering correction etc. All of these features work very well but it’s not always easy or straightforward to setup and/or program them. Once you’ve set everything to your individual preferences, remembering how to modify them in the future is a challenge. Ride is smooth and cornering is also very nice. With about 450 hp power is more than adequate. Sound system is also adequate but limited in quantity. I believe that the limited size of the interior does not allow for a dozen or more speakers with their versatility as you would find in a sedan or SUV. Interior is very comfortable and well laid out with limitless adjustability in seat positioning steering wheel position etc. Some are critical of outside design but that’s a matter of taste and in my opinion, a vehicle of the nature should be more elegant and subdued like this one. If you buy new, be prepared for a steep depreciation curve. There are plenty of low mileage used vehicles to choose from if you’re patient and take your time if you choose that path. I write this review as someone who enjoys comfort, lots of convenience features, power and handling in normal everyday driving not as someone who drives aggressively or races on weekends. Also as I previously mentioned, vehicles are built for a specific use and purpose. They should be reviewed with that criteria in mind. Don’t buy a heavy duty truck for hauling and complain it rides rough.
My Little Jewel
D L Bowden, 06/25/2023
2015 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class SL 400 2dr Convertible (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 7A)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
My 2015 SL is a very fine automobile. I love it. No problems since I purchased it used in 2019. Handling is a dream. It has a V6 under the hood. I have been made aware of the fact that the SL550 has a V8 that is about 450lbs heavier than my V6. All that extra weight is right over the front end of the car. When I get into twisty roads, my car goes where I point it with no drama. It just goes where I point it. I love it.
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Ultimate everything
Grant Weiler, 12/29/2019
2017 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class SL 65 AMG 2dr Convertible (6.0L 12cyl Turbo 7A)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
Having owned a SL550 and SL63 in the past, there is no comparison to the 2017 SL65. I saw this car in early 2016 while attending an AMG Driving School and it was parked in the Pit Garage and I though it the best looking car made by Mercedes. Problem, it was $235,000. Jump ahead to 2019 and I was able to purchase the same car for less than half the price new. With 18,000 miles and serviced regularly by Mercedes this car is exceptional. The vehicle looks brand new and runs with no problems detected. The ride is a tad stiff, but who cares when you step on the gas the back tires will smoke them if not careful. Extended warranties other than Mercedes are available and I would not own one without one. They are a rarity. The transmission is so smooth that you don't feel the up or down shift, but you can hear the engine pitch change or watch the AMG Instrument cluster as it reads out the gears as they change. Five star for sure.
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Perfectly Balanced Convertible Super Car
Brian Aryai, CPA , 07/31/2022
2014 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class SL550 2dr Convertible (4.7L 8cyl Turbo 7A)
7 of 9 people found this review helpful
Mercedes got it so right. Excellent ride, prodigious power, and unmatched comfort.
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Everything's Great Except the Steering's Feel
ArcticDweller, 09/29/2022
2014 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class SL550 2dr Convertible (4.7L 8cyl Turbo 7A)
5 of 6 people found this review helpful
Beautifully crafted for sure... can't say enough good things about it. However, the electric steering really takes away my feel for the road in this 2014 SL550 version. Actually my other SL (R129 platform 1995 SL500, with the M119 Engine), is probably the nicest driving Roadster ever crafted by Mercedes.... and the body lines are much more pleasing to a discerning eye. The loss of the hydraulic steering, coupled with the ABC (Automatic Body Control) may make the ride of the 2014 more "opulent" but, if you enjoy the feel of the road, especially through the corners, the 2014 leaves a fair bit to be desired.
Had many SLs... This 2015 is by far the best
Dale... Florida, 02/11/2024
2015 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class SL 400 2dr Convertible (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 7A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
Last of the REAL mercedes SL and by far the best looking both inside and out. I may never trade this one. Love the SL400 because plenty of power and one of the most classic interiors so far. Also big differece in insurance cost and gas MPG without giving up the pep. Still fast enough to get in and out of traffic with turbo.
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Great car
Michael, 06/05/2022
2014 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class SL550 2dr Convertible (4.7L 8cyl Turbo 7A)
6 of 8 people found this review helpful
The car handles very well on the highway and brakes very well. Very quiet and it’s awesome to have a convertible and a car that rides so nice
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Style, comfort and performance
Gary W Evans, 10/02/2019
2017 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class SL 450 2dr Convertible (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 9A)
6 of 8 people found this review helpful
Check our the options. So much is standard, but there a few add-ons that turn it from a great car to a spectacular road machine. Distronic Plus is a must as well as the premium package. Soft close doors are nice feature. Wish mine had the electronic darkening roof. Wonderful roadster, smoothest ride of any of the 14 MBs I have owned over the past 40 years. Amazing acceleration and handling
Love this car!
Jacky , 07/07/2020
2015 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class SL 400 2dr Convertible (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 7A)
5 of 9 people found this review helpful
I've only had my 2015 SL400 for 1 1/2 weeks and the handling is amazing. I previously had a Lexus IS350C and it was a nice ride, but I have to admit, nothing like this one. The interior is absolutely gorgeous is my car. My dog, who ironically is not a car guy, may not be be crazy about the minimalist back seat, but again, he's not a a car guy. I'm more than pleased with the car up to now. It may not have some of the bells and whistles and power of higher end models, but for me it fits the bill.
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Awesome vehicle, one bothersome problem
Chevy the whippa, 09/22/2023
2014 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class SL550 2dr Convertible (4.7L 8cyl Turbo 7A)
2 of 3 people found this review helpful
I love the car, It's everything one could want at an advanced age (61 bad back) in a sports/luxury riding car. Love the seat massage! One BAD problem is the backup camera. There's a nasty passenger side blind spot and the camera does not show it or make a sound. I've come close to accidents in parking lots a number of times., The cars 9 years old, a real cherry (still looks and rides like new) and I would've kept it forever but for that camera . Otherwise I'd have given 5+ stars!!!
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A body style that will always be as breathtaking
slaphappygabby, 10/05/2021
2017 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class SL 450 2dr Convertible (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 9A)
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
Folks it's a HTC, that stows very neatly in trunk, I can't for life of me question these bad reviews about the lack of trunk space. Didn't you address that issue before you bought the car? I bought this SL450 for so many reasons, ride, handling, performance, value, power, great endless style... this SL line has staying power. Also the fit and finish are outstanding. I just put a order in a few months ago, I am already at the 3100 status, I will get my 2022 corvette before the end of February.... if one of these ever needs to park in driveway for whatever reason, it will be the corvette
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RATHER DRIVE A 12
LARRY BIRDIE, 10/10/2017
2017 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class SL 550 2dr Convertible (4.7L 8cyl Turbo 9A)
2 of 8 people found this review helpful
THE CAR RIDES VERY STIFF EVEN WITH ABC, IT FEELS LIKE ITS NOT ENGAGED, THE RIDE IN THE 2012 IS SUPERIOR THEY SHOULD HAVE KEPT THAT SUSPENSION I PURCHASED A 2012 MUCH BETTER RIDE
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Perfect
Karl, 05/19/2018
2015 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class SL 550 2dr Convertible (4.7L 8cyl Turbo 7A)
2 of 9 people found this review helpful
Buy only CPO
Great car
Roscoe, 03/10/2023
updated 03/18/2024
2014 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class SL550 2dr Convertible (4.7L 8cyl Turbo 7A)
1 of 5 people found this review helpful
Changed tires for softer ride. Love everything about this car.
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The 2017 SL550 is awesome!
Robert, 01/03/2023
2017 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class SL 550 2dr Convertible (4.7L 8cyl Turbo 9A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I've owned a number of high-end vehicles from Aston Martin, Jaguar, Porsche, Lexus, Audi, etc. This SL500 ranks up there with the best in terms of styling, performance, luxury features, and prestige. I really like the fast hardtop convertible operation, the massaging seats, Apple Car Play, and the quality of the interior materials. It's really fun to drive and it looks great too!
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World Class Style, and a two seater sexy rocket!
Archangel, 09/15/2023
2016 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class SL 550 2dr Convertible (4.7L 8cyl Turbo 7A)
0 of 2 people found this review helpful
I've owned plenty of luxury cars from other Mercedes, Corvettes, a 308 Ferrari, but hands-down the best overall luxury sports car. Plus the retractable hard top takes it over the top!
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Terrific car!
NJSmolen, 08/16/2019
2018 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class SL 450 2dr Convertible (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 9A)
0 of 2 people found this review helpful
Met all expectations and then some!
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Sexy red ride
Nancy, 07/27/2018
2018 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class SL 550 2dr Convertible (4.7L 8cyl Turbo 9A)
0 of 3 people found this review helpful
A good test drive with the top up and down to feel the difference
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Senior citizen loves this car
Joe Kenworthy, 08/08/2020
updated 02/10/2021
2018 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class SL 450 2dr Convertible (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 9A)
0 of 1 people found this review helpful
One must learn where the front end is and be very careful when navigating even minor dips in the road.
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Cute, overpriced & poorly designed
Merc Veteran, 11/03/2020
2017 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class SL 450 2dr Convertible (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 9A)
0 of 20 people found this review helpful
Sadly, because it's a hard top convertible, it doesn't have any competition. As a result Mercedes can get away with charging a premium price for something that is basically a cheap, obsolete, poorly designed (from a functional point of view) product.