Mercedes-Benz’s AMG division is working on a facelift for the SL that will reposition the convertible as a more comfort-focused open-top grand tourer in a bid to create a clear distinction from the upcoming drop-top version of the AMG GT sports car. Both models have the same platform, chassis, powertrains, E&E architecture, and more, but will target different subsets of convertible buyers.
- Comfort-oriented Maybach SL reportedly garnered “overwhelmingly positive reaction”
- Styling updates may include new lights with star-shaped DRLs and revised bumpers, among other changes
- SL facelift expected to feature softer suspension and chassis tuning
- Upgraded V8 with more power; 6-cylinder SL 53 to serve as new base variant
Mercedes-AMG SL facelift to debut in 2027 with a gentler persona
Hard-top AMG GT convertible to be the sportier drop-top option
Per a report from Autocar UK, the 2027-bound SL facelift will take on a softer slant, which will help Mercedes-AMG push the upcoming hard-top GT as the more performance-oriented convertible. This decision was reinforced further by an “overwhelmingly positive reaction to the comfort-focused Maybach SL,” an insider told the publication. This variant was launched in India last year in This variant was launched in India last year in top-of-the-line SL 680 Monogram Series guise and costs Rs 4.3 crore.
As is customary with facelifts, expect the updated SL to sport reshaped headlights and tail-lamps with three-pointed-star DRL signatures, revised bumpers and grille, new alloy wheel designs, and the like. Inside, the SL facelift may feature a larger touchscreen running Mercedes-Benz’s latest MB.OS software, updated trim pieces, fresh upholstery, a new steering wheel and more.
2027 Mercedes-AMG SL facelift technical details
Likely won't be as hard-edged in the handling department
Mercedes-AMG is understood to be softening the chassis and suspension of the 2027 SL facelift to reflect its comfort leanings. The SL’s engine line-up will major changes. For starters, the 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 powering theSL 55(on sale in India for Rs 2.34 crore) and SL 63 will be upgraded to the Euro 7-compliant, flat-plane-crank M177 Evo iteration that debuted in the2026 S-Class facelift.
M177 Evo V8 to deliver more power for SL 55, 63, and 680
In the SL 55, power output is expected to increase to 537hp (up from 476hp), and in the SL 63, it could be bumped from 585hp to around 659hp. The top-spec SL 680 will likely use the same V8 engine, but in a 621hp state of tune.
Entry-level 4-cyl SL 43 to be phased out, 6-cyl SL 53 to take its place
Meanwhile, the base SL 43, which gets a 2.0-litre 4-cylinder petrol engine, will be discontinued with the facelift. Mercedes-AMG is expected to offer the SL 53 instead, which will be powered by the 449hp 3.0-litre turbo inline-6 seen in the new GLC 53. However, the future of the 812hp plug-in hybrid SL 63 S E Performance is uncertain, as Autocar UK’s insider suggests it may be shelved.
Every variant of the SL facelift is expected to use mild hybrid tech, along with Mercedes-AMG’s 9-speed automatic transmission.
All prices are ex-showroom, India.
Suraj Viswanathan
Glenn Noronha
Dhruv Dhaka
Dipan Sur
Uday Singh
