2008 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

The 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class gets no major changes. These are Mercedes's costliest convertibles. They seat two and have a power-retractable hardtop. Four models are available. The SL550 has a 382-hp 5.5-liter V8 engine. The SL600 has a 510-hp turbocharged V12. The SL55 and SL65 are tuned by Mercedes's AMG performance arm. The former has a 510-hp supercharged V8, and the latter uses a 604-hp turbocharged V12. SL550 models have a 7-speed automatic transmission. All other SL-Class models have a 5-speed automatic. All SL-Class models have Mercedes's ABC active suspension that's designed to reduce cornering lean. Also standard are "by-wire" antilock brakes that can modulate brake pressure to each wheel. Other available safety features include traction control, antiskid system, side airbags, driver knee airbag, and a rollover bar designed to deploy in an impending tip. Also standard are navigation and assistance systems. Adaptive cruise control is optional.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 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 four-seat coupes rule the roost in this class.

Our Best Buys are the BMW Z4 and Chevrolet Corvette. Our Recommended picks are the Jaguar XK Series, Porsche Boxster, and Porsche Cayman.

New or significantly redesigned models include the Audi A5, Audi R8, and Audi TT.