SL Will No Longer Sport an AMG Badge
SL63 AMG gets discontinued, leaving the SL lineup without an AMG monster for the first time since 1995 thanks to AMG GT Roadster
Rumors have been floating around for the past few months involving the discontinuation of the SL63 AMG. Sadly, we are here to report that it is true. Thanks to harder to achieve emissions standards around the world and better available options, the beloved twin-turbo V8 roadster will not return for 2020.
CarBuzz reports that they received a brief and straightforward confirmation from MB PR representative Ashley Gillam. She stated only that there is no model year 2020 SL 63. With that striking blow, it’s time for us to bid a fond farewell to the AMG extreme versions of the SL.
Just a few short years ago, we lost the mental SL65 AMG, as well. This even more juiced up roadster featured a twin-turbocharged V12 and, as you can imagine, wasn’t exactly the spitting image fuel efficiency. While we understand why they’re going, we are still going to need some time. It truly is the end of an era.
We haven’t lost AMG in roadster format entirely, though. The AMG GT Roadster is a bit bittersweet in that it is the far superior cousin of the SL63 AMG, and we love it. However, it’s also very likely the reason the SL is gone. When two cars are doing the same thing, and one does it much better, it only makes sense to let one go. Furthermore, the AMG GT is a lot more representative of Mercedes-Benz’s current technology and capabilities. Overall, it’s just a better car.
Let’s be realistic here. We completely understand why this is happening, but it still feels like a significant loss. We aren’t mad at you, Mercedes, just disappointed.
Overall, discontinuing the SL63 AMG is a smart business move for M-B. Though it hurts to see these left without a big V8 or V12 parked under the hood, we will survive. We may never see the likes of an SL roadster with way too much power pulsing through the back wheels again. So, if you have an AMG SL, be sure to thank it for its service with a nice cruise.
Photos: Mercedes Benz