2005 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Mercedes-Benz' costliest convertible revises its navigation system and center console for 2005. These 2-seaters have a power-retractable metal hardtop. Four models are offered. The SL500 has a 302-hp 5.0-liter V8. The high-performance SL55 AMG has a 493-hp supercharged 5.4 V8. The SL600 uses a twin-turbo 5.5-liter V12 that's also rated at 493 hp, but at lower rpm and with more torque than the SL55's V8. New for '05 is the limited-production SL65 AMG with a 604-hp twin-turbo 6.0 V12, plus larger brakes and specific styling touches. The SL500 has a 7-speed automatic transmission. Other SLs use a 5-speed automatic with manual shift gate; the SL55 "SpeedShift" includes Mercedes' performance programming and steering-wheel shift buttons. All have antiskid/traction control and Mercedes' ABC active suspension designed to reduce cornering lean. Also standard are "by-wire" antilock brakes that can modulate brake pressure to each wheel. The SL65 comes on 19-inch wheels; others have 18s. Available as a no-cost option are 17-inch wheels for the SL500. All SLs include head- and torso-protecting side airbags, driver knee airbag, and a rollover bar that pops up if sensors detect an impending tip. Also standard are navigation and assistance systems, xenon headlamps, and heated seats. Options include Mercedes' Distronic cruise control, designed to maintain a set following distance, and Mercedes' Keyless Go keyless entry and starting. SL's revamped center console includes an updated version of Mercedes' COMAND video control for navigation, audio, and climate functions.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide® Automotive places each vehicle into one of 17 classes based on size, price, and market position. Offering more power and style than typical Sporty/Performance vehicles, Premium Sporty/Performance Cars usually cost much more and have more comfort and convenience equipment. Two-passenger convertibles and 4-seat coupes rule the roost in this class.

Our Best Buy is the Chevrolet Corvette. Our Recommended picks include the BMW Z4, Chrysler Crossfire, and Mercedes-Benz CLK.