Mercedes-Benz SL Class Leasing & Contract Hire Offers for May

Morgan Highfield & Land Review

It’s not often that the entry level model comes as the most highly recommended, but this may indeed be the case with the most basic Mercedes-Benz SL Class model. It really is a strong performer and even though other models look stronger and more impressive on paper, when something delivers as well as the entry level version, you have to consider the extra expense wisely before buying. With 4 versions available, it really comes down to personal choice, but from the top end to the one with the lowest specs, all deliver sound performance thanks to the effective automatic transmission present in all models.

As with many of its Mercedes-Benz cousins, the SL delivers well in the ride comfort stakes and with the addition of quality grip it makes travelling at speed through bends and corners, not only comfortable but beautifully balanced. Unfortunately, also like some of the other Mercedes models, it shares some of the negatives, with the steering balance not at all convincing and perhaps letting you know a little too obviously that you are in control of a large vehicle. Again, the basic model seems to shine a bit brighter and certainly reacts that bit better and this could be largely due to the lighter engine up front.

When the top is down, any good convertible will be designed to protect its occupants as best as possible and only taller people will end up in the stream of air in this SL, with an effective wind blocker doing its utmost to shield passengers from the majority of any turbulence. When the roof is up, you get to experience just how impressively quiet the engines are when cruising but there’s a great feeling of energy when revving! Of course, you expect some noise when the roof is lowered but unfortunately, there is still a little more wind noise than is ideal, even when the roof is closed and travelling at pace on the motorway.

Standard equipment for the Mercedes-Benz SL is plentiful and includes all the regular features you might expect as well as climate control and sat nav. If you have a bit more in the budget and like to add some of the optional extras, there are plenty of those too. Perhaps one of the most impressive is the "Magic Sky Control" which actually lets you switch the glass roof panel (optional) from opaque to transparent!