2022 Mercedes-Benz Four-Cylinder SL Rumored to Launch
For the first time in 60 years, Mercedes-Benz is expected to launch a four-cylinder SL.
Not since the original 190 has Mercedes-Benz built a four-cylinder SL. But over the last 10 years, Mercedes-Benz introduced smaller, turbocharged engines across its lineup. Turbo four-cylinder engines became the norm for the C-Class and E-Class. And now for the first time in 60 years, the entry-level SL is expected to receive four-cylinder power. Should the rumors prove true, a new model, the SL43 debuts in March.
According to several enthusiast websites, the SL43 will use the M254 2.0-liter four with an electric turbocharger. Replacing the twin-turbocharged, 4.0-liter V8 as the entry-level engine, the four-cylinder will develop 390 horsepower in the SL. A mild-hybrid system might also be available adding 20 horses and improving low-end torque. Small visual changes like exhaust and trim badges will also separate the SL43 from the V8 models.
If the information is accurate, the 2022 Mercedes-Benz SL43 will debut in the coming weeks, and it will go on sale in some markets in March 2022. Mercedes-Benz has yet to confirm the car, but in an era of premium four-cylinder premium cars, it makes sense. When introduced last October, the current SL was only available in the “55” and “63” versions. Previous generations of the SL included a six-cylinder option. And today, four is the new six with four-pot engines producing over 300 horsepower.
Beginning with the legendary 300 SL Gullwing, Mercedes-Benz’s flagship symbolized prestige and powerful motoring. Every generation that followed came equipped with the largest engines of the time. It’s hard to point to one heyday for the SL – every generation has its place and time. The elegant W113 “Pagoda” SL followed the original W198 300 SL and provided adequate power for serene motoring. Launched in 1971, the larger R107 replaced the W113. For 18 years it showcased affluence on ’70s and ’80s TV shows and in places like Beverly Hills. More modern successors followed, each faster and more powerful than the last.
Some people might argue that Mercedes-Benz lost the plot with the R230 and R231 SLs. Like movie sequels, each new version needed to top the old model – faster, safer, and more technologically advanced. Perhaps that’s why Mercedes-Benz hit the pause button in 2020 and waited two years on the R232. But the new car is elegant. An elegant 2+2 grand tourer with a soft-top, it returns to the SL’s basic mission. And if the SL43 does come to light, it won’t just be a four-cylinder SL. It will also return the SL to its original roots.
Photos: Mercedes-Benz
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