Well it will likely go from 2009-2011 with an all-new model for 2012. As far as the 2007 models go that isn't counted as life expectancy, it was just a facelift not a new car.

M

When you say 2012 do you mean released in the UK in 2012 and then here in 2013 (I know all MB come out a year early overseas)?

For the 2012 model year here in the U.S., just guessing. That would mean the debut will be sometime during 2011 in Europe. MB's are usually released in Europe 6-8 months before they make it to the U.S., but even this varies.

M

Im feeling the rear styling of this new car.

Where you feelin it?

And the front is out as well. Compared to the old R230:

Wow MB deserves to be

There's more. The perspective is a bit off on the comparison, but you get the idea:







As seen here: http://www.autoblog.nl/archive/2008/...we-mercedes-sl

That front end just doesnt match the rest of the dated body....WEAK!

If this is the facelifted SL, then it is clear that MB changed as little of the sheetmetal as they could to come into compliance with the new pedestrian safety regulations in Europe. The only metal part that is changed is the hood, the front quarter panels are the same.

Either way...I dont like how they tried to blend that front end with the existing SL's body. No excuses will help that. To me this really changes how I feel about MB. Introducing so many cheaper models and variations of models was one thing, but the SL to me was one of the most sought after and special cars they made for many generations. Now it has become just another MB.

are these photo shop ?

it looks really nice... ****...

What else could it be?

I knew it! Those damn European pedestrian regulations. It screws up all the sleek designs.

I have seen so many renderings and spy shots that I don't know what the facelifted SL will look like. I am waiting for the official photos from MB.

Man, you're a true sceptic. These look rather official, or someone has been very dilligent with the Photoshop:

http://www.leftlanenews.com/mercedes...ss-future.html

BTW, these Airscarf seats look like two stormtroopers now:

Yes, I am a skeptical person. I am also hoping, delusionally maybe, that they don't do this to the SL.

The new headrests look uncomfortable. They are ergonomically quite different than the current headrests. Also, the Airscarf looks peculiar. I thought the purpose of the Airscarf was to blow warm air at the head and neck when driving with the top down on chilly days. This one looks like it will blow ambient air.

http://www.leftlanenews.com/wp-conte...60&idg=1&idi=9

http://www.autozeitung.de/online/bildDB/102413_700.jpg

that front is Nucking Fasty! EW!

There isn't a single photo where that front end actually looks good. How could they butcher one of the sexiest cars on the road...

Maybe it'll look good in person

new version sucks

you should see the new 2010 CLK and E class pics. Yuck! Square rear tail lights? The headlights are pretty awful also. The E looks to have more a CLS coupe style look to it. Idk what is up with these new designs?! You can also pull up the sport versions of the 2010's if you google picture search long enough. Maybe there is hope??

In thinking more about this, I figure that the heating element must be in the headrest... this might explain their large size. I hope this is an option rather than standard equipment. Not only are they goofy looking, the exposed fans make them look cheap and tacky. They should cover the back of the headrest in matching leather and leave a slot at the base to allow air to flow to the fans.

Headrests are definitely patchwork (lets not touch the chairs but add a feature nonetheless).

I'm still not convinced about this restyling. The only thing I'm going to wish I had is the new and up-to-date COMAND.