Mercedes-Benz offered me the keys to their top-tier convertible, the SL 550, for an extended test drive, and I knew exactly where to take it. A six-day road trip from Santa Barbara to San Diego, cruising down the iconic Pacific Coast Highway and exploring the winding coastal roads from Del Mar to La Jolla, California, seemed like the perfect backdrop. My mission? To blend automotive enthusiasm with culinary exploration, driving in style from taco stands to upscale dining experiences like the revamped Spago in LA and the Forbes 5-Star Addison in Del Mar. The Mercedes Sl 550, with its promise of luxury and performance, was set to be the ideal companion for this sun-soaked adventure.
In my earlier days, I frequently wrote about cars, pushing performance vehicles to their limits on test tracks and off-road terrains. However, recognizing that most drivers rarely push their “performance” cars to such extremes, I decided to approach this Mercedes SL 550 review from the perspective of a typical luxury car consumer, focusing on the aspects that truly resonate in everyday driving. And let me tell you, there’s an abundance to appreciate in this vehicle.
For those seeking purely technical performance metrics, numerous publications offer detailed analyses. For instance, Motor Trend delves into the specifics of the SL 550’s bi-turbo boost and acceleration figures. But my aim is different. I want to share what makes the Mercedes SL 550 exceptional for someone who values a blend of performance, luxury, and driving pleasure in real-world scenarios.
Beyond Performance: The Allure of the Mercedes SL 550
Once you venture into the realm of high-end manufacturers like Mercedes-Benz, certain attributes are a given: robust power, refined handling, and a suite of convenience, comfort, and safety features. For most drivers, the nuanced performance differences between the SL 550 and a Mercedes model at half the price might be imperceptible in daily driving. It’s not about constantly chasing the upper limits of acceleration or cornering prowess.
Yet, experiencing the SL 550’s capabilities is undeniably exhilarating. When you press the accelerator in this lightweight roadster (thanks to its all-aluminum body, shedding 300 pounds compared to its predecessor) and unleash its twin-turbo V8 engine, the surge of power is reminiscent of high-performance cars like the Aston Martin Vantage V12. While my own older BMW 3 Series is more than adequate for everyday needs, the SL 550 delivers a different dimension of driving excitement.
However, unless you’re regularly on a racetrack, the Mercedes SL 550’s appeal extends far beyond its potent drivetrain and handling dynamics. At cruising speeds around 85mph, the car feels remarkably composed and quiet, a testament to its engineering refinement. This is where the true luxury experience begins to shine. While the paddle-shifting option might seem appealing, the flawlessly tuned automatic transmission proves more than sufficient for most driving situations, seamlessly delivering power and responsiveness.
Style and Design: A Head-Turning Roadster
What truly distinguishes the Mercedes SL 550 in the high-performance luxury segment is its captivating style. It’s a genuinely beautiful car, striking a perfect balance between aggression and elegance. Its sporty stance, aerodynamic front end, and strategically placed vents create a head-turning presence. For those investing over six figures in a car, visual appeal is undoubtedly a significant factor. The Mercedes SL 550 Roadster, with a starting MSRP around $105,000 (and the tested model at $125,000), delivers on this front emphatically.
The interior design is equally impressive from the driver’s seat. Similar to the subtle hood humps in Infiniti G-series models, the vents atop the SL 550’s elongated hood offer a constant visual reminder of the car’s sculpted form, enhancing the driving experience. It simply looks and feels special from behind the wheel, amplifying the overall enjoyment – and this car is undeniably fun to drive.
The Convertible Experience: Setting a New Standard
The primary allure of a roadster is the open-top driving experience, and the Mercedes SL 550 excels in this domain. Its mechanical hardtop roof system is arguably the best in its class. With a single button press, the roof retracts or deploys in under 15 seconds. Compared to cumbersome soft-top systems, even those that were once power-operated, the SL 550’s roof is incredibly convenient and encourages frequent top-down driving. No more hesitation about whether it’s “worth” opening the roof; it’s effortless.
And if you desire a touch of openness even with the top up, the Magic Sky Control feature is revolutionary. A significant portion of the hardtop is constructed from photo-chromatic glass, transitioning from nearly transparent to almost opaque at the touch of a button. Essentially, the hardtop transforms into a panoramic sunroof, offering versatility and a unique connection with the sky, regardless of the roof configuration.
Engineering Excellence: Features and Refinements
Mercedes-Benz’s meticulous engineering is evident in the SL 550’s array of features. It’s equipped with every conceivable convenience and a comprehensive suite of safety technologies. The active blind spot assist, lane keeping assist, and Distronic Plus systems enhance safety and driver awareness without being intrusive. From LED daytime running lights to powerful bi-xenon headlamps and a rearview camera, the SL 550 is packed with thoughtful details.
The interior refinements are equally impressive. The cabin is swathed in exquisite leather, complemented by burled wood and matte steel accents. The placement of controls, from seat adjustments on the door panel to roof operation, is ergonomically intuitive.
Comfort and Convenience: Designed for Enjoyment
Comfort is paramount in a luxury roadster, and the SL 550 delivers. Beyond the standard dual-zone climate control, it features ventilated and heated seats, along with the “airscarf” system, which gently blows warm air around your neck for comfortable top-down driving in cooler weather. The power wind blocker further enhances the open-air experience by minimizing turbulence, especially at higher speeds.
The integrated infotainment and navigation system, controlled via a user-friendly interface, includes satellite radio and a responsive GPS. The 600-watt Harmon Kardon sound system, with 12 speakers and subwoofers, provides exceptional audio quality, even with the top down – a significant achievement for a convertible.
The two-seater configuration prioritizes space and comfort for occupants. The seats offer extensive adjustability, reminiscent of early first-class airline seating. Ample lockable interior storage adds practicality, minimizing the need to use the trunk for secure storage when parked with the top down.
Practical Considerations: The Trunk
The trunk space is perhaps the only minor compromise. While Mercedes aimed to accommodate golf clubs (one set with the top down, two with it up), real-world usability is somewhat limited by its shape. While the cubic footage might seem substantial, fitting larger luggage can be challenging. Two standard checked suitcases proved difficult to accommodate. However, it’s likely that the Mercedes SL 550 is not intended to be a primary family vehicle, and for those seeking a stylish and luxurious roadster, traveling light is a small trade-off for the overall experience.
Conclusion: Luxury and Driving Pleasure Redefined
The 2013 Mercedes SL 550 is more than just a high-performance convertible; it’s a statement of refined luxury and driving pleasure. It seamlessly blends exhilarating performance with exceptional comfort, cutting-edge technology, and head-turning style. For those seeking a luxurious roadster that excels in both everyday driving and memorable open-top experiences, the Mercedes SL 550 remains a compelling choice.
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