2008 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class loses peanut-shaped (ameboid) headlamps

Here is another facelift Mercedes-Benz model (dubbed ‘new generation’ in Merc speak) that loses its peanut-shaped headlamps, following a trend spearheaded by the W204 C-Class in 2006/07 and recently the ‘new’ C-Class coupe aka CLC-Class.


The new SL-Class will be unveiled at Geneva 2008 this March. This premium sports roadster is claimed to deliver even more athletic performance, thanks to the new direct-steer system and improved fuel efficiency. As an example, the SL350 is powered by a newly developed, extremely high-revving sports engine boasting an impressive output of 316 hp yet returns a fuel consumption figure that is 0.4litre per 100 kilometres lower than that of its predecessor.


Mercedes-Benz SL range will now feature two six-cylinder models in the guise of the SL350 and the new SL280 (170 kW/231 hp), as well as the familiar SL500 with a V8 engine. At the top-end is the SL600 with a V12 powerplant.

Passive safety kit counts include bi-xenon headlamps incorporating the Intelligent Light System whose light functions are designed specifically for typical driving situations. Further new features on board include AIRSCARF neck-level heating. This system - invented by Mercedes-Benz and available as an optional extra - enhances comfort when driving with the roof down in those cold climates. SL passengers are kept informed and entertained by the standard-fit COMAND multimedia system, which has also been fully redeveloped and features additional functions e.g. Sat-Nav.

The new-generation SL caps a glorious history of Mercedes sports cars, which began in 1954 with the introduction of the legendary 300 SL "Gullwing", followed in 1957 by the launch of the first SL Roadster. To date, the Stuttgart manufacturer has produced a total of over 630,000 SL sports cars.