sklasse

I am doubtful because the past sl was 11 years before it was redesigned.

Which would be the next SL would be coming in about 2014

any one have concrete data?

Germancar1

Of course there is no "concrete data" or information on the next SL just. I do know that the Mercedes has to get the C, E, and CLK to market before the SL because of the competitive nature of their respect segments. My *guess* would be that that the next SL will show up for the 2010 or 2011 model year here in the U.S. which would put the R230 at 7-8 model years here in the U.S.

M

CY

In my opinion it has a lot to do with the competition. The new SL buyer seems to also look at the 6 series and 997 Porsche...in the next few years a few other variations may be introduced such as the Maserati hardtop conv and BMW SL fighter hardtop conv. Right now the SL has no real head to head competition causing sales to be acceptable for MB but rather discounted for a refreshed body style.....at this point it is obvious that the current SL will probably remain until at least the 2008 model year since a refresh just for the last year of production seems very unlikely, however at this moment in Europe the R230 SL is on its 6th model year and since they usually get the new model are year or so before us I would say that change will happen at the latest sometime within the next 2-3 years in EU. The E and CLK will most likely change as well and it is unknown whether the CLK will share the same style headlights as the SL which is currently the case. The bottom line is the there is no spy photos, no rumors and no speculation or press statements, so its truly impossible to say for sure.

Germancar1

Yep that is true. MB has to get the E, C, and CLK to market first though since those are critically important to the bottom line. MB seems to always let the SL grow really long in the tooth before replacing it. I can see the R230 going 08' 09, 10' before being replaced.

M

CY

Well the new C should be out in 2007 as a 2008 model according to most sources, while the E and CLK are unannounced but you are right, they will most likely come before the SL. I would love to see a glimpse of the next generation SL styling no matter how far away it is...I mean what could they do to improve perfection They better not mess it up!