Seventh-gen roadster adopts latest hybrid tech for next-level performance boost
Mercedes’ decision to twin the seventh-generation SL with its second-generation GT has opened the door to a whole new level of performance for the luxury roadster. And charging through that gap is the 805bhp plug-in hybrid Mercedes-AMG SL 63 S E Performance.The SL is of course already available with a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine with 416bhp called the Mercedes-AMG SL 43, as well as the twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8 powerplant developing 469bhp in the Mercedes-AMG SL 55 4Matic+ and 577bhp in the SL 63 4Matic+.The S E Performance’s twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8 and electric motor combo is also used by its fixed-roof sibling, the Mercedes-AMG GT 63 S E Performance.Performance PHEVs capable of fewer than 10 miles of EV range are few and far between. But the SL 63 S E Performance does go toe to toe with the likes of the PHEV Bentley Continental GT as well as the hybrid Porsche 911.
