Detroit Auto Show: 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class, Finally All-New After Nine Years

Mercedes-Benz boss Dieter Zetsche has set a target of overhauling the current global leading luxury car maker, BMW, by the end of the decade. And it is down to cars like the 2013 all-new Mercedes-Benz SL-Class, on show in the metal at the Detroit Auto Show for the first time, that will propel the company forward, with sales of the Mercedes roadster beginning in the third quarter of 2012.

Based on an all-new platform, the sixth-generation Mercedes SL however stays true to its nine-year-old predecessor's proven formula of delivering the “ultimate in passionate, refined motoring”, especially so in the aircraft cockpit-inspired cabin, which exudes a sense of luxury not seen in the current SL's rather sedate cabin.

Underneath the familiar exterior, which is clearly differentiated by an SLS AMG-inspired grille, the all-new Mercedes SL, which stands for Super Leggera or Super Light, is vastly different, as it is constructed almost entirely from aluminium, allowing the new car to be up to 140 kg lighter than before depending on trim level.

The all-new Mercedes SL is not only lighter but at least 20 percent more rigid than its predecessor, improving both efficiency and handling. Like before, V6 and V8 engines are present, now in the form of a 302 HP, 370 Nm 3.5-litre V6 and a 429 HP, 700 Nm 4.7-litre twin-turbo V8. A seven-speed automatic gearbox and a rear-wheel drive system complete the drivetrain. Enjoy live photos of the 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class below!