The 2023 Mercedes-AMG SL 63 is a top-shelf convertible that offers outstanding performance, advanced technology, and opulent comfort. With its striking design, powerful engine, and high-quality features, the SL 63 is an excellent choice for those who seek the best in terms of luxury and performance.
The current SL generation, the seventh, launched in 2022 and is a significant departure from all other previous SLs in that it now comes with four seats rather than just two. No adult would ever want to sit in the rear two seats, but young children would be fine back there, and that space is great for luggage.
Of note, the Mercedes SL’s main competitor is the Porsche 911, which has included four seats since its introduction in 1963. Presumably Mercedes had the 911 in mind when they created the newest SL.
The 2023 SL is expensive whether you select the AMG 55 (about $140k) or AMG 63 ($180k-ish) versions, with the 63 providing more power and performance. Both SL models are powered by a twin-turbo 4.0-liter V-8; the SL 55’s engine makes 469 HP, and upgrading to an SL 63 like my press car bumps that figure up to 577 HP. A nine-speed automatic is the only available transmission, and an all-wheel-drive system and four-wheel steering are standard on all SL models.
Driving the SL 63 is exhilarating, as you’d expect, with the sporty Mercedes capable of accelerating from 0 to 60 MPH in just 3.5 seconds. In the real world that means that passing other vehicles on the interstate or a backcountry road is the opposite of challenging.
The 2023 Mercedes-AMG SL 63’s handling is equally impressive, thanks to a sophisticated suspension, the aforementioned rear-wheel-steering, and a low center of gravity. The car feels planted and composed around corners, providing excellent grip and stability even at high speeds. The low center of gravity is helped by the switch from a hard-top convertible in the last SL to a soft-top in this generation, which subtracts weight from the top of the car. Nevertheless, at around 4300 lbs the SL is still heavy despite Mercedes’ extensive use of lightweight materials such as aluminum and magnesium in the construction of the car.
The SL 63 comes with multiple drive modes, including Comfort, Sport, Sport+, and Individual, allowing the driver to customize the driving experience. Switching among the modes can be done by turning a small dial attached to the steering wheel, a nice touch.
A relatively firm ride is part of the deal when you drive the SL 63, even when it’s in Comfort mode. Nobody expects a sports car to feel like a Lexus on the highway, but this generation SL rides firmer than the last one and is close to the ultra-sporty Mercedes AMG GT supercar. I wish it were softer.
The exterior design of the 2023 Mercedes-AMG SL 63 is sleek and contemporary, with a long hood, wide grille, and muscular lines that reflect its performance and elegance. The soft-top convertible roof helps here too, allowing for more styling flexibility than the hard-top, which must be shaped to fit into the trunk without bending when lowered.
While the soft-top roof improves the SL’s driving dynamics and exterior design, there’s no noticeable noise penalty. Mercedes’ engineers obviously paid special attention to insulation and soundproofing because the cabin is as quiet and comfortable as the previous hard-top SL when driving with the top up.
The interior of the SL 63 is, not surprisingly given its price tag, crafted with the finest materials and offers a wealth of luxury features. Supportive and comfortable seats wrapped in premium leather are standard, and the fact that the front seats are heated, ventilated, and feature multiple adjustments, including massaging functions, means that customers can expect a high level of comfort on long outings. I took the SL 63 on three long drives and felt great during and after all three.
The cabin also features a dual-zone automatic climate control system, configurable ambient lighting, and a power wind deflector when the top is down, adding to the overall comfort and convenience.
The technology in the 2023 Mercedes-AMG SL 63 is cutting-edge and comprehensive. It includes a fully digital instrument cluster that displays vital information in a crisp and clear manner, and a large infotainment system with a 11.9-inch touchscreen that offers a wide range of features, including navigation, audio controls, smartphone integration, and more. The latest MBUX infotainment system also supports voice commands and has a user-friendly interface, making it easy to manage while on the go.
The Burmeister surround sound system, which I absolutely love, provides an immersive audio experience that elevates any drive.
The 2023 SL 63 is a very impressive car that will make previous SL owners happy, and yet also represents a viable alternative to the Porsche 911 thanks to its improved design and the addition of two rear seats. It’s expensive, but those who can afford it will enjoy it.
Such an excellent write-up as usual. I learned two rather huge things in this article: Soft top (not a retracting hard top) and rear seats in an SL! Those may still be tiny, but they're better than the so-called 'jump seats' of previous era. Great job Steve.