2019 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class AMG SL 63
What’s new
- The SL is unchanged for 2019
- Top AMG SL 65 trim has been dropped
- Part of the sixth SL generation that was introduced in 2013
Pros & Cons
- Interior is a model of luxury and refinement
- Effortless acceleration
- Excellent handling doesn't come at the expense of comfort
- Folding hardtop still allows for decent cargo space
- AMG models aren't as agile as similarly priced exotics
Which SL-Class does Edmunds recommend?
Edmunds' Expert Review
Overall rating
8.0 / 10When it comes to dignified top-down motoring, the Mercedes-Benz SL is an icon. It blends a prodigious technology portfolio with sumptuous luxury like few convertibles can. It's aging but gracefully so, and the 2019 model will likely be the last year of this generation. The current car, however, is still at the top of its game.
Despite its seemingly conventional nature, the SL is replete with impressive features. Take its roof, for example. Wind noise and buffeting are minimal with the power-folding roof stowed, and when raised the roof seals out noise like a traditional coupe does. But it's also available with an electronically dimmable overhead glass panel for when you want to split the difference between top-down and top-up driving. Its optional active-bolster seats are gimmicky, but the Airscarf system that emits warm air from beneath the headrests is sublime.
Three engine choices give buyers wide latitude in how quickly they want the scenery to blur, and its sophisticated suspension smooths out rough pavement with surprising grace. It's quite capable on a spirited drive, even if its weight and general demeanor suggest otherwise.
Despite its speed, the SL has never been the sportiest drop-top out there, and the 2019 model is no different. It is, however, supremely comfortable and capable.
2019 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class models
The 2019 Mercedes-Benz SL is a two-seat convertible with a power-folding hardtop and is available in three trim levels. The base SL 450 is powered by a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 (362 horsepower, 369 pound-feet) and sends power to the rear wheels through a nine-speed automatic transmission. The SL 550 ups the power with a turbocharged 4.7-liter V8 (449 hp, 516 lb-ft). Finally, the AMG SL 63 comes with a bigger turbocharged 5.5-liter V8 (577 hp, 664 lb-ft), a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic and special performance hardware and styling elements.
Standard features for the SL 450 include 19-inch wheels, a power windblocker, LED headlights and running lights, automatic high beams, automatic wipers, a panoramic sunroof, front and rear parking sensors, forward collision warning and mitigation, keyless entry and ignition, selectable drive modes, and an adaptive suspension.
Inside, you get dual-zone automatic climate control, a power-adjustable steering wheel, sun-reflecting leather upholstery, power-adjustable heated seats, a navigation system, voice controls, the COMAND infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, two USB ports, and an 11-speaker Harman Kardon sound system with a six-CD changer and satellite and HD radio.
The SL 550 adds AMG-branded 19-inch wheels, a power trunklid with hands-free activation, an automated parking system, the Airscarf neck-level heater, and ventilated seats with active side bolsters and massage functions.
The AMG SL 63 receives high-performance drive and suspension settings, Active Body Control (which mitigates body roll while cornering), upgraded brakes, a limited-slip differential, unique AMG gauges and other AMG-themed aesthetic flourishes, a dashtop analog clock made by International Watch Co., upgraded leather upholstery and a simulated-suede headliner.
Most of the fancier trims' premium features are optional on lesser models. All SLs are eligible for a mobile Wi-Fi hotspot and many interior upholstery and trim upgrades. AMG models can be outfitted with carbon-ceramic brakes and carbon-fiber exterior trim.
Trim tested
Each vehicle typically comes in multiple versions that are fundamentally similar. The ratings in this review are based on our full test of the Mercedes-Benz SL 63 AMG (turbo 5.5-liter V8 | 7-speed automatic | RWD).
NOTE: Since this test was conducted in 2015, the current SL has received some minor revisions. Our findings remain broadly applicable to this year's model, however.
Scorecard
| Overall | 8.0 / 10 |
| Driving | 8.5 |
| Comfort | 8.0 |
| Interior | 8.0 |
| Utility | 6.0 |
Driving
8.5Acceleration
9.0Braking
8.0Steering
7.0Handling
8.0Drivability
8.0Comfort
8.0Seat comfort
8.5Ride comfort
8.0Noise & vibration
6.0Interior
8.0Ease of use
7.5Getting in/getting out
7.5Visibility
7.5Quality
8.0Utility
6.0Technology
Sponsored cars related to the SL-Class
Features & Specs
| AMG SL 63 2dr Convertible 5.5L 8cyl Turbo 7A | |
|---|---|
| MSRP | $154,450 |
| MPG | 15 city / 23 hwy |
| Seating | Seats 2 |
| Transmission | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Horsepower | 577 hp @ 5500 rpm |
Safety
Our experts’ favorite SL-Class safety features:
- Magic Vision Control
- Keeps the windshield clean by spraying water directly from the wiper, minimizing overspray and maximizing windshield-washer fluid coverage.
- Attention Assist
- Warns you if the car detects irregular driving behavior, such as erratic steering inputs, commonly caused by drowsy driving.
- Pop-Up Roll Bars
- Detects an impending rollover and deploys a pair of roll bars behind the occupants' heads, helping minimize injury.
Mercedes-Benz SL-Class vs. the competition
Mercedes-Benz SL-Class vs. BMW 8 Series
An all-new model, the 8 Series has a level of drama that the aging SL can't match. But the BMW's choice of powertrains will initially be more limited, and there certainly won't be an 8 Series variant that can go up against the mighty AMG models for quite some time. Like the SL, the 8 Series balances abundant comfort with surprising capability.
Mercedes-Benz SL-Class vs. Jaguar F-Type
It's difficult to ignore the F-Type's striking sheet metal and vocal V8, which might entail more attention than you bargained for. The Jaguar also has all-wheel drive in V8 trims (it's optional in lesser trims), which might seem odd in a sporty two-seat convertible but is necessary to put down the V8's grunt. Nevertheless, the F-Type can't match the SL's better-crafted and more spacious cabin.
Mercedes-Benz SL-Class vs. Porsche 911
In terms of all-around competence, it's hard to beat the 911. Like the SL, it doesn't have the most soul-stirring styling. But the modern 911 is so well-rounded that it easily excels at nearly any situation you can think of. The 911 can surpass even the AMG model's acceleration if you step up to a 911 Turbo or Turbo S trim. And it even has a back seat as well as a trunk that doesn't care if the top is up or down.
FAQ
Is the Mercedes-Benz SL-Class a good car?
What's new in the 2019 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class?
According to Edmunds’ car experts, here’s what’s new for the 2019 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class:
- The SL is unchanged for 2019
- Top AMG SL 65 trim has been dropped
- Part of the sixth SL generation that was introduced in 2013
Is the Mercedes-Benz SL-Class reliable?
Is the 2019 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class a good car?
How much should I pay for a 2019 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class?
The least-expensive 2019 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class is the 2019 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class AMG SL 63 2dr Convertible (5.5L 8cyl Turbo 7A). Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $154,450.
Other versions include:
- AMG SL 63 2dr Convertible (5.5L 8cyl Turbo 7A) which starts at $154,450
What are the different models of Mercedes-Benz SL-Class?
More about the 2019 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class
2019 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class AMG SL 63 Overview
The 2019 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class AMG SL 63 is offered in the following styles: AMG SL 63 2dr Convertible (5.5L 8cyl Turbo 7A).
What do people think of the 2019 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class AMG SL 63?
Consumer ratings and reviews are also available for the 2019 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class AMG SL 63 and all its trim types. Overall, Edmunds users rate the 2019 SL-Class AMG SL 63 4.5 on a scale of 1 to 5 stars. Edmunds consumer reviews allow users to sift through aggregated consumer reviews to understand what other drivers are saying about any vehicle in our database. Detailed rating breakdowns (including performance, comfort, value, interior, exterior design, build quality, and reliability) are available as well to provide shoppers with a comprehensive understanding of why customers like the 2019 SL-Class AMG SL 63.
Edmunds Expert Reviews
Edmunds experts have compiled a robust series of ratings and reviews for the 2019 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class AMG SL 63 and all model years in our database. Our rich analysis includes expert reviews and recommendations for the 2019 SL-Class AMG SL 63 featuring deep dives into trim levels including AMG SL 63, etc. with careful analysis around pricing, features, performance, mpg, safety, interior, and driving and performance. Edmunds also offers expert ratings, road test and performance data, long-term road tests, first-drive reviews, video reviews and more.
Read our full review of the 2019 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class AMG SL 63 here.Our Review Process
This review was written by a member of Edmunds' editorial team of expert car reviewers. Our team drives every car you can buy. We put the vehicles through rigorous testing, evaluating how they drive and comparing them in detail to their competitors.
We're also regular people like you, so we pay attention to all the different ways people use their cars every day. We want to know if there's enough room for our families and our weekend gear and whether or not our favorite drink fits in the cupholder. Our editors want to help you make the best decision on a car that fits your life.
What's a good price for a New 2019 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class AMG SL 63?
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Which 2019 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class AMG SL 63s are available in my area?
2019 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class AMG SL 63 Listings and Inventory
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Why trust Edmunds?
Edmunds has deep data on over 6 million new, used, and certified pre-owned vehicles, including all models of the 2019 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class AMG SL 63 and all available trim types: AMG SL 63. Rich, trim-level features & specs and options data tracked for the 2019 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class AMG SL 63 include (but are not limited to): MSRP, available incentives and deals, average price paid, warranty information (basic, drivetrain, and maintenance), features (interior and exterior color, upholstery, bluetooth, navigation, cruise control, parking assistance, lane sensing, keyless ignition, satellite radio, folding rears seats,run flat tires, wheel type, tire size, sunroof, etc.), vehicle specifications (engine cylinder count, drivetrain, engine power, torque, engine displacement, transmission), fuel economy and MPG (city, highway, and combined, fuel capacity, range), vehicle dimensions (interior cabin space, vehicle length and width, seating capacity, cargo space). Edmunds also provides tools to allow shopper to compare vehicles to similar models of their choosing by warranty, interior features, exterior features, specifications, vehicle dimensions, consumer rating, edmunds expert review, safety rating, and color.
Should I lease or buy a 2019 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class AMG SL 63?
Is it better to lease or buy a car? Ask most people and they'll probably tell you that car buying is the way to go. And from a financial perspective, it's true, provided you're willing to make higher monthly payments, pay off the loan in full and keep the car for a few years. Leasing, on the other hand, can be a less expensive option on a month-to-month basis. It's also good if you're someone who likes to drive a new car every three years or so.
Check out Mercedes-Benz lease specials