Mercedes-Benz welcomes a new entry-level AMG SL 43 to its V8-powered SL range, but there is plenty of performance on offer thanks to some clever turbo technology derived from the firm’s F1 efforts.
The new Mercedes-AMG SL was revealed back in 2021 and by all accounts, it’s a mightily impressive product to come from Affalterbach. Not only does the new R232-generation SL offer an exquisite digital experience, but both the SL 55 and SL 63 also offer noteworthy performance thanks to the fitment of a twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8 that offers either 350 kW / 700 Nm in the SL 55 or 430 kW / 800 Nm in the SL 63. The sprint from zero to 100 kph takes just 3.9 and 3.6 seconds respectively. However, if the V8 SL is a push too far, there’s a new baby SL 43 to consider…
F1 Tech for Mercedes-AMG SL 43
The SL 43 is the first production car to feature electric gas turbocharging derived from F1.
Mercedes-AMG has introduced an ‘entry-level’ SL 43 fitted with a turbocharged 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder engine, but don’t write this baby SL off just yet…
The Mercedes-AMG SL 43 features an F1-derived electric gas turbocharger and it’s the first time ever that this technology has been implemented in a production car. Outputs are pegged at 280 kW and 480 Nm and the SL 43 makes use of a 9-speed Multi-Clutch Transmission (MCT).
The turbocharger operates via a 48V electrical system which also feeds the belt-driven starter-generator (RSG) which adds 10 kW boost in certain situations. A small 4cm thin electric motor is integrated directly on the turbocharger shaft and therefore drives the turbocharger directly, accelerating the compressor wheel before the exhaust gas drives the turbo conventionally. The turbocharger can operate at speeds of up to 170 000 rpm.
This means that the turbo spools up faster resulting in an immediate response from idle speed and across the entire engine speed range, according to Merc. With spontaneous throttle response, the AMG SL 43 delivers a more dynamic driving experience. The electrification of the turbocharger also allows for more torque at lower revs which enhances agility and acceleration from a standstill. More so, boost pressure is maintained, even when the driver is no longer on the accelerator pedal.
In terms of performance, the Mercedes-AMG SL 43 is claimed to accelerate from zero to 100 kph in 4.9 seconds with a top speed of 275 kph. 
As far as styling is concerned, the SL 43 is differentiated with its own set of front and rear aprons and is easily recognised by its round tailpipes (angular tailpipes are seen on the V8 derivatives). 19-inch alloy wheels are also standard but larger 20- and 21-inch wheels can be fitted as an option.
Inside, the AMG SL 43 adopts the same layout as its V8 siblings with a new 12.8-inch digital instrument cluster and a 2-tier dashboard that houses the impressive 11.9-inch multimedia touchscreen with Merc’s second-generation MBUX operating system.
Mercedes-Benz SA has not yet confirmed when the new SL will arrive locally but we will keep you informed as soon as official timings are communicated.
Buy a Mercedes-AMG SL on Cars.co.za
