2022 Mercedes-AMG SL63 Roadster Spy Shots: Icon Redesign

The iconic Mercedes-Benz SL was last redesigned for the 2013 model year and is now in its sixth generation.

Soon a new SL will arrive, but this time it will be developed not by Mercedes-Benz, but by Mercedes-AMG's Performance Skunkworks. A prototype has been spotted, most likely a variation of the new SL63.

A clear indication that this is not an entry-level SL is the square exhaust tips, which are usually only used on top variants of the AMG lineup. In addition, the front mask has additional downforce flicks.

As for the rest of the exterior, Mercedes design chief Gordon Wagener said the new SL will have lines similar to the original 300SL, but not retro. The latest tester is still heavily camouflaged, but some of the proportions and fine details can be seen.

Under the sheetmetal, the new SL will utilize a new rear-wheel drive platform for sports cars called MSA (Modular Sports Architecture). Weight reduction will be key. Lighter and more exotic materials will be used in the construction, and the roof will feature a soft top instead of the retractable hard top of the past two generations.

At launch, there will likely be two variants with a mild hybrid powertrain. One is likely to be badged SL53. The other is the SL63, shown here.

The SL53 will be powered by a 3.0-liter inline 6-cylinder turbo and a mild hybrid system, with total output expected to be around 430 hp; the SL63 will be powered by a twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 and a mild hybrid system, with total output expected to exceed 600 hp The total output is expected to exceed 600 hp.

The V-12 engine is not expected to return. Instead, a plug-in hybrid model may be introduced that combines the SL63's V-8 engine with a more powerful electric drive system. Such a system has already been previewed in concept form and will debut soon in AMG's GT 4-door coupe. The output of this system could exceed 800 hp.

The new SL will debut in 2021 as a 2022 model. It will replace the S-Class Coupe and S-Class Convertible, which will be discontinued at the end of the 2020 model year; the two-door S-Class is one of seven models reportedly being discontinued as part of Mercedes' massive cost-cutting program.