Spotted: 2009(?) Mercedes-Benz SL

I am definately positive it will have the SLR nose just like the SLK. Im sure this is still just a test mule and not the whole new body under camo yet.

The current design of the SL will be one of the most beautiful designs of all time for this car. It's an instant classic when you look at it. Everything is just beautiful with it. The 'spy photo' appears to show that the front end headlights may resemble the new CL which in my opinion takes some time to get used to, especially with the SL being as stunning as it is aleady. But it all makes sense since the new CL and upcoming C-Class carry similar styling cues.

Agent63, I think the SL looks dated and needs a redesign. It was gorgeous when it came out- but now, the XK and 6 Series, while not as classic looking, are fresher.

There's a few things this could be...

1. An old article with an SL65 AMG in testing

2. An SL63 to replace the SL55

3. A new SL, but with only the new nose grafted onto the current model's body

I have a feeling it's actually #2.

No doubt, anything after 4-5 years needs a redesign. I just hope the new one don't disappoint.

Why would it be an SL63? I highly doubt AMG would downgrade their SL65 to an SL63.

aussie, I don't think you know about MB's numbering for their AMG models... currently they offer the 55 and the 65. The 55 is 5.5L Supercharged V8 producing 510hp and 531 lb-ft. torque, the 65 is a 6.0L Bi-turbo V12 producing 604hp and a staggering 738 lb-ft torque.

The 63 is the replacement for the 55, it is a 6.2L naturally aspirated V8 that gives 507hp and 465 lb torque. (why 63, ask their marketing dept). Most likely they will still kept the 65 as well.

Thank you, jeffy. Took the words out of my mouth.

And notice, "aussiecarnut", I said the 63 was to REPLACE THE 55. Read closely, and you'll see things you've never before seen.

I'm still more partial to the old R 129 style. Had a '99 SL 600, myself. I'll wait and see what it looks like in person before I make a decision.

The old SL was a true beauty. Did you replace it with anything?

I actually like the '03-'05 SL500 better than the current SL550. The 550's wheel options and rear lamps don't flatter the car like the 500's did.

Aussiecarnut.....

Its not downgrading. The S has a S63 to replace the S55. The 63 engine is naturally aspirated and has more power.

They just refreshed this car and this just looks like another refresh. I'm sure they wouldn't just restyle the nose on the current body style, & then release it as a next-generation model.

Even if it is the new SL63 like "S4" suggested, they wouldn't be releasing it so far into the current SL's life cycle & not to mention, with a different front end than other SL models.

Mercedes regularly introduces AMG models in the last year of a product cycle. Remember the last-gen S65 and CL65? Or the C55, which was only on sale for a year?

This wouldn't be a completely new nose- just a new bodykit.

Hasn't the SL range traditionally had a long shelf-life anyway?

If this is the case, the current SL is not yet due for a complete re-design.

My guess is that this refreshed SL will have a SLR-style nose and revised suspension and interior.

i do wonder when it will be replaced, the last one lasted 13 years, this one not as long. maximum 8 years i think.

A true driver's car has a manual transmission. The XKR doesn't even come with one. Nice try, troll.

Neither does any SL model on the market, Bill.

I agree about the styling. The new XK makes the SL look so old. It's a little sad- the SL500 was beautiful when it came out.

I want an XKR. I'm definitely going to drive one.

<scottish accent/> ...And if you don't wear a kilt then your no true true scotsman...<scottish accent/>

...I would say that is an oversimiplification. The Jaguar system is a manu-matic which is activated when switching into Sport mode [or manual]. In fact this manumatic is considered better than the ones in the SL or the 6 series. Gearshifts are quicker than 600 milliseconds. It is in fact the fastest: 400 milliseconds faster than the stardard automatic, and 100 milliseconds faster than the next best one.

Just because you don't operate a clutch or a gearshift doesn't mean the car is incapable of manual shifting.