New SL is better around Benz

For all those who love roadsters, Mercedes-Benz has just launched it's new-generation SL-class. This luxury sports car has long been admired for its design, easy handling, comfort and safety and now this new-generation SL has raised the bar further with its better, sportier design. Wassim Derbi, Marketing Manager of Gargash Enterprises told Emirates Business : "I am very excited about the launch of the facelifted SL. Unlike regular facelifts, the modifications made to this model are not minor ones and I am confident that the more masculine changes to the front of the vehicle, along with the unique technological attributes, will attract a lot of new customers. The SL has always been one of our exclusive car models and I am certain that this will remain the case, due to its history and exquisite design." However, it's not just the looks that have been given a facelift, the athletic performance of the legendary sports car has also been improved and the new SL now offers enhanced comfort and safety. Derbi said: "The new-generation SL comes with bi-xenon headlamps with headlamp cleaning system and dynamic range control, exterior mirrors with s larger lens and arrow-shaped Led indicator repeaters, sporty multifunction steering wheel in a three-spoke design with matt chrome decorative insert and Comand with 6.5-inch screen, integrated CD/DVD changer, SD memory card slot and Bluetooth hands-free functionality for a mobile phone." With a base price of around Dh350,000, the SL comes with a new, optional direct-steer system that provides a whole new driving experience when cornering. This new development is based on the familiar standard-fit speed-sensitive power steering system – the benefit of which is noticeable especially when driving slowly, manoeuvring or parking due to the lower steering forces required. The sports car extends its lead in the safety stakes courtesy of bi-xenon headlamps and the optional Intelligent Light System whose lighting functions are designed specifically for typical driving situations. And while you enjoy the silky smooth drive you are kept entertained by the standard-fit Comand multimedia system which has also been revamped. The new additions to this car are a variable rack ratio, which adjusts in line with the steering angle, increasing sharply as soon as it reaches five degrees. The car's response is noticeably more direct, allowing the driver to steer more spontaneously. The term "sports engine" could not be more apt as the specialists at Mercedes-Benz have further enlivened the temperament of the six-cylinder unit, enhancing its dynamic response dramatically. The engine responds instantaneously to movements of the accelerator pedal and can rev up to 7,200 rpm in order to make full use of its power reserves in certain driving situations. In addition, the SL still offers some of the finest chassis technology available in the shape of four-link front suspension and multi-link independent rear suspension. Meanwhile the Active Body Control system is a unique masterpiece and adapts the suspension settings automatically to suit the current driving situation. This makes for excellent agility on the one hand and optimum driving stability on the other, without compromising the car's superb levels of comfort. Mercedes-Benz has also further fine-tuned the ABC shock-absorber settings for the new-generation SL. Just like its predecessors, the new-generation SL features a front-end design that will serve as a template for future Mercedes passenger cars. At the rear, too, the new-generation SL demonstrates its sporty nature even more clearly than before, achieved primarily by the new diffuser-look bumper which adds a motor sport touch. In conjunction with the equally new trapezoidal exhaust tailpipes this design element emphasises the width of the body, further symbolising the power just waiting to be unleashed by the roadster. Derbi said "I am excited about the new SL facelift as there was so much anticipation for it within the market here and I am certain that this model will not fail to quench the regions thirst for motoring extreme."