NJProTech

This new SL is very impressive. I did a very comprehensive PDI for a special client. While all new Mercedes models are just copycats of each other in terms of telematics, instrument cluster, and overall interior feel, the SL still feels like a cockpit. Many small details to revert this model back to a "super light". Magic sky is very cool and the new windshield wiper design is perfect. An A+!!

kustom2k1

They dropped the ball on the body design.

NJProTech

Pedestrian safety and fuel economy. Both have negative impacts on all new body designs. Guess we better get used to it.

Jim A

Beauty is in the eye of the beholder. I actually think it is very pretty. I was worried when I saw all of the preliminary photos but am quite pleased now that I have seen it in person.

Daytona-flyer

I think it's drop dead gorgeous. Much better looking to my eye than the prior model.

absent

Maybe they could make it prettier if the rules were different but they are not.
Considering how restrictive the pedestrian safety rules enforced by EU idiots are,MB did a pretty good job.
Best SL ever,IMO.

nir

I Drove one yesterday. it felt more like an upgrade than a radical change. some cool features (roof auto trunk with foot activation). plenty of power for a non amg model. I have to say that after further reflection i do not like the new front. hopefully AMG will have better front bumper - more like sls. After getting back in my sl55, i missed nothing, and mine has a touch screen audio system that looks much better than the one in the sl, and have all he features/toys(except for hard drive - which is useless anyway - who listens to cd's anymore)

IngenereAMG

I have had my SL55 since new, back in '03, and when I first saw it, I felt it was drop dead gorgeous. Even after all these years it is still stunning, and in 55 spec, it has everything one could want. The SL55 is destined to be one the greats.

..... And who knows, maybe they might stop depreciating one day!

lorinserbenz

The new Sl is the most god awful looking car Mercedes has ever made.
The styling makes no sense at all, it looks like a mish mash of crap.
I dont want to hear the EU standard nonsense, BMW figured it out... the new 6 series is killer looking.

I loved my SL (230 body) and I NEVER EVER heard anyone call it ugly.
The 230 body is one of the most beautiful cars ever made..

Daytona-flyer

Own, or just drive the new SL for a week. I'll bet the design will grow on you.

RJC

Every series of SL including the original and most valuable, have a very upright facia (except for the last two) which the 231 pays homage to.

RichardB

RJC is dead on here. The now "old" SL looked nice with it's slanted front end. But it's as dated as a Miata.

RichardB

Faster than that!

Jim K

I have a 2009 SL550 which I drove in Europe after delivery at the factory. It has been a fantastic car. A couple of weekends ago my son and I drove the new 2013 SL. It takes the SL to a whole new level. The power is immediate and awesome. 30-60, 40-70 at the snap of your fingers. Handling is improved over my 2009 and the car generally feels more nimble. Corners great. Interior is a knockout. Body structure is rock-like, even on rough roads. Styling is a matter of personal taste of course, but I think it looks powerful and I like all angles of it (including the front!). It is more powerful looking than the past model, although I think my 2009 is more "masculine" than its predecessors. In short, this is a very serious automobile for people who like to drive with gusto. You should see it in person and drive it if you have a chance. My hats off to the contributors who have ordered a 2013. And I look forward to their reactions.

RJC

All great points Jim K...I can only imagine the '14 with even more power as the new 14 S sedan gets 510 in the base V8 of which 20 is from hybrid power...all S sedans are reported to be part hybrid. All this reported from the latest Automobile magazine.