Sunday, February 20, 2011

U Spy: 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL Roadster Convoy Scooped in Spain


Carscoop reader Frank Jonas hit the Mercedes-Benz jackpot when travelling in Spain last week, he stumbled upon a convoy of camo'ed SL prototypes, which were accompanied by several other vehicles with the star on their bonnet including an example of the current generation of the German firm's hardtop roadster model.

"On my trip to the south of Spain last week I had the opportunity to take some pictures of a heavily camouflaged Mercedes-Benz Coupe/Cabriolet, most probably the next SL," Frank told Carscoop.

Although Mercedes has done its best to disguise the SL by covering it in heavy cladding, we can see that the new generation model keeps its predecessor's two-piece folding hard top, while the styling is expected to adopt the German firm's more "artsy" design philosophy as seen on the latest CLS and recent concept models such as the F800 Style, along with a more in-your-face front grille.

Being that the 2012 SL was developed alongside the SLS Gullwing, the two models are likely to share certain key components such as the suspension bits and electrical systems.

Information regarding the engine range remains scarce, but buyers should expect a entry-level V6 and the usual lineup of V8 units including Merc's newly developed 5.5-liter bi-turbo V8 for the AMG model, and possibly, an upgraded V12 for the flagship version.

Hat tip to Frank for the scoop!


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