The SL 450 gets a substantial overhaul for 2017, including revised styling and added technology features.

From the 1950s “Gullwing” and 1960s “Pagoda roof” to more recent AMG® hot rods, the Mercedes-Benz SL-Class has been the automaker's flagship for performance and luxury for over 60 years. Each generation of SL has been one of the most well-regarded luxury cars of its era, and the current generation is no different. For 2017, the stylish and luxurious two-door SL 450 gets a number of updates—including revised styling and new tech features—that should keep it on top.

A powerful drive

SL stands for “Sportlich-Leicht” or “Sport Lighweight,” and with a name like that, you’d expect this Mercedes-Benz roadster to offer some serious performance. The SL has done just that for over 60 years, and it continues to do so for 2017.

The SL 450 may be the entry-level model of the SL-Class lineup, but it’s a force to be reckoned with. It features a 3.0-liter biturbo V6 with 362 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. The V6 is mated to a nine-speed automatic transmission and can do 0 to 60 mph in 4.9 seconds.The SL 450 is also the fuel-economy champ of the SL lineup, achieving an EPA-rated 23 mpg combined.*

Features to get excited for 

Standard features include a power-retractable hardtop, 19-inch wheels, LED exterior lighting, panorama roof, three-spoke multifunction sport steering wheel, sun-reflecting leather upholstery, heated 16-way power seats with memory; dual-zone automatic climate control; COMAND® infotainment system with central controller, navigation, voice control, and Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™ integration; harman /kardon® Logic 7® audio system; and much more.

Standard safety equipment includes anti-lock brakes, stability and traction controls, pop-up roll bars, Attention Assist, Active Brake Assist, Pre-Safe® pre-collision system, high beam assist, Neck-Pro front head restraints, and eight airbags.

To learn more about the 2017 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class or to schedule a test drive in one, contact us online or visit Sears Imported Autos at 13500 Wayzata Boulevard, Minnetonka, MN 55305.

*EPA estimated fuel economy. Compare the estimated mpg to the estimated mpg of other vehicles. You may get different mileage depending on how fast you drive, weather conditions and trip length. Your actual highway mileage will probably be less than the highway estimate.

Image: Mercedes-Benz