Hi,
I have a 2013 SL550, love it mostly... Considering getting a newer version.

My local dealer told me that the 2013 and 2019 are basically the same other than the cosmetic upgrade in 2017.

I understand there is a 2017 update. Is it mainly cosmetic? What are the changes? How about changes in 2019?

Any electronic changes? Radio control system upgrades? Top control changes?

Any input is appreciated.
Thanks

 

SL 550 Engine Horsepower is up from 429hp to 449hp. The new transmission is a 9-speeds instead of a 7-speed.

No 6-CD changer in the dash of the newer models like there was with in the original 231's. The trunk slider/separator is now electrically powered, no need to move it manually inside the trunk. The Wood/Leather Steering Wheel has been modified, and in my opinion looks worse than that of the original 231's, but otherwise the interior has not visibly changed except for the color of the analog clock which has gone from white to black..

19" wheels are now standard as is the Premium 1 package and rear view carmera on the SL550. (18" wheels are still available as an accessory item). You are already aware of the front face lift with the added 'grill diamonds' and there was also a minor and unnecessary tail light change which in my opinion makes the tail lights look worse.

There are the expected color option changes, and some different wheel options as well. The new wheel center caps are different too! On the electronics side of things Apple Car Play was added and there are more selectable ambient light colors available now than in 2013.

I probably missed a few other very minor changes, but the things I mentioned above are the biggies to be aware of. Having driven both, I don't think the 2019 SL550 is very different from the 2013 SL550 in terms of how it looks or performs, and the features and functions are much the same too. The 'character' of the car has remained pretty much the same from 2013 through 2019.

************************************************** **************************************************

MY PERSONAL EXPERIENCE - WHY I CHOSE TO BUY A USED 231 OVER A NEW ONE

You may be interested in knowing that I chose to go with an older 231 model due to the info shown above, and have been extremely pleased by my choice of a 'like new' (mint condition) 2013 SL550. I bought it in October of last year and it had only 15K miles on it. Although it took me 6-months to find just the right color schemes, and options that I wanted, it was well worth the time and effort to get exactly the car I wanted!

What a bargain it was at $44,900 compared to the $120,000+ I would have spent for a 2019 SL550. (Basically the same car for more than $75,000+ less than the new 2019 SL550). That's what I call a 'no-brainer' decision!

Furthermore, I prefer the more angular (AMG-inspired) design over the newer face-lifted 231 design....(YMMV).

Last but not least, my favorite 231 color, (Palladium Silver Metallic), was no longer available on 231's after the 2015 model year, so I wouldn't have been able to get that beautiful, 'favorite color on a 2019 231 anyway! However, not only was I able to find the exterior color I wanted, but I also got the interior I wanted as well. The Ginger Beige/Espresso Brown Nappa Leather Interior on my 231 is simply stunning! .

After almost 5 months of ownership, I can say without any hesitation whatsoever that choosing to buy a 'mint' 2013 SL550 over a new 231 was the best car deal decision ever for me, and I could not possibly be happier about that decision! Given my personal experience, it's hard to imagine why anyone would choose to purchase a new 231 over a used, (but mint), low mileage CPO. All it takes is the patience to find just the right 231 SL Class for you, (i.e.one with the precise colors and options you desire).

Good Luck in your search for a 231!

 

Another change that wasn't mentioned was temporary M mode added in 2014 that lets you downshift or upshift without changing transmission modes. Also, the clock and infotainment was changed with the facelift too.

 

I had identically spec'd 2013 and 2017 SL550's so it was easy to compare Apples to Apples.
I won't go into what looks better as it is a matter of taste but the changes are more functional than cosmetic

Updated engine with more power and 9G-tronic - big difference in how the car drives
Updated and improved ABC (includes curve function)
Different drive modes (individual mode and sport plus plus curve if ABC). Individual allows to set suspension, steering, engine and transmission settings.
Updated version of Comand with Apple CarPlay & Android Auto + 4G network speed
LED intelligent lighting
Exclusive Nappa leather option added to provide full leather dash and panels in addition to seats/armrests.
Exhaust added has valves now and is a more pronounced
Electric trunk slider as mentioned which can also be removed for more trunk space

All in all, the facelift SL is much better car than the 2013. Which is to be expected...

 

Thanks everyone. I appreciate the input.

Have any more specs on the Updated version of Comand with Apple CarPlay & Android Auto + 4G network speed? Is it now touch screen?

The radio/ command center is one area I wish my car was more modern.

 

 

 

 

I believe I have some version of Distronic plus on my 2013. It has lane assist where it will fight you a bit if you start to cross a lane but does not fully steer. Is it the same in the 2019? Or does it actively keep in the lane like a Tesla?

 

 

Distronic plus - keeps the correct distance with cruise control activated (and steers the car to keep it between the lanes if you have the option).

Steering fights you if you do not use the indicator when changing lanes - not sure of the exact names but "lane keeping assist" and "lane change assist" are different.