The Mercedes-AMG SL 43 is Coming to America

One of the sad truths about global car brands is that some models never make their way stateside. Fortunately, we can take one name off that list, as the Mercedes-AMG SL 43 roadster has been confirmed for a US launch.

The SL 43 will be hitting American dealerships this summer, starting at $111,050 with destination. This new addition to the SL lineup features some unique enhancements, some of which were inspired by F1.

The SL 43 is driven by a 2.0-liter inline-4 engine, enhanced by an electric exhaust gas turbocharger– technology derived from the Mercedes-AMG Petronas F1 team. Basically, there’s a small 1.6 inch electric motor mounted on the turbo shaft, situated between the turbine wheel and compressor wheel. It’s able to drive the shaft, accelerating the compressor wheel before flow from the exhaust gas fully takes over.

This is said to improve response from idle and across the RPM range. When it’s all said and done, the AMG SL 43 is capable of 375 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque. The engine is longitudinally mounted, sending power exclusively to the rear wheels. An AMG SPEEDSHIFT transmission helps achieve a 0-60 mph time of 4.8 seconds; with enough track, drivers will meet an electronically limited top speed of 170 mph.

The AMG SL 43 differentiates itself from the AMG SL 55 and AMG SL 63 with some unique exterior appointments, like the front fascia and rear apron, as well as the round double tailpipe trims. It comes standard with 19-inch wheels, though “aerodynamically optimized” 20- and 21-inch wheels can also be had. Speaking of aero, an active AIRPANEL control system will control the opening and closing of various louvers to either reduce air resistance or improve cooling. The rear spoiler also changes positions under various conditions, be it the need or less drag or for more stability.

As one can expect, the interior is luxury appointed and features plenty of tech. Mercedes calls their combination of analog geometry and the digital world “hyper analog.” It starts with the 12.3-inch digital instrument panel paired up with the standard 11.9-inch MBUX infotainment system. The heated and cooled seats are also standard, wrapped in black Nappa leather as standard and interchangeable with six optional colors.

We put the AMG SL 63 roadster through the corners of Roebling Road Raceway just this past season. Yes, it was powered by a twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8, but it still goes to show that there’s a lot of fun to be had in a two seater drop top from Mercedes. That being said, we suspect the AM SL 43 to be quite enjoyable in its own right.