2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Preview

For the 2012 model year, car buyers who are interested in the faster Mercedes vehicles will have a choice of a 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Gullwing or roadster variety. The Gullwing variety is expected to be released as a 2011 model in the summer of 2010, while the roadster is expected to hit dealerships in late 2011 as a 2012 model.

Specifications

These are the known specifications of the 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG:

• Pricing: car pricing for the convertible will probably be around $250,000, although official pricing has not been announced; the Gullwing will be slightly less than $200,000
• Fuel economy: will likely be somewhere around 13 mpg city/20 mpg highway; the roadster may be slightly less fuel efficient
• Engine: 6.2-liter, 563 horsepower V8
• Acceleration: should reach 62 mph in about 3.8 seconds
• Car safety features: traction control, stability control, airbags
• Suspension:
• Warranty: is likely to have four-year/50,000 mile basic and powertrain warranties, 3,000 miles free maintenance; unlimited roadside assistance, and four-year/50,000 miles corrosion coverage

Exterior Features

The roadster and gullwing versions of the 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG will have slightly different exterior features. The coupe’s main exterior feature is its gullwing doors, while the roadster will have a soft top. Both vehicles will have an aerodynamic design with a long hood and large disc brakes. The roadster is expected to have the front-hinged doors of a conventional vehicle.

Interior Features

the 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG will probably have an interior with characteristics that are similar to other Mercedes-Benz vehicles. The COMAND electronic interface is expected; it has seen improvements since it was introduced and will be easier to use. It should have a small center console, with an entertainment system that includes Bluetooth and iPod compatibility. The trunk should be decently sized, although the convertible roadster could have less space than the gullwing vehicle.

Performance

Performance of the 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG, whether of the roadster or Gullwing variety, should be fast, and thrilling to drive on curves. The top speed is expected to reach 196 mph. The rear wheels will be powered by a seven-speed, dual clutch automated manual transmission.

How the 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Compares to Other Cars

The 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG won’t be available for testing for quite a while, but you can expect it to be a tough competitor in the super sports car category. If you are not sure which sports car you like the best, you might want to look at the following vehicles while you are looking at the SLS AMG:

• Lamborghini Gallardo
• Ferrari California
• Ferrari 458 Italia

The 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG should be available in late 2011 as a 2012 model.