The Mercedes-Benz SL-Class is a smooth, spacious, and sporty roadster with a long history. The current generation, which dates back to 2013, was refreshed in 2017 and carries over largely unchanged for 2020. Competitors include Mercedes-Benz’s own GT, the Porsche 911, Audi R8, BMW 8 Series, Acura NSX, Jaguar F-Type, and Lexus LC.

The classic roadster's proportions make this car look and feel timeless, while the slick power-retractable hardtop provides modern convenience. For an even more distinctive look, check out the SL Grand Edition, which gets exclusive Graphite Grey paint and staggered AMG wheels that measure 19 inches in front and 20 inches in back.

The SL-Class is available in three trim levels, SL 450, SL 550, and AMG SL 63. The first features a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter 6-cylinder engine rated for 362 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. You’ll get 449 hp and 516 lb-ft. in the SL 550, thanks to a 4.7-liter 8-cylinder engine. The AMG SL 63 gets a 5.5-liter engine 8-cylinder engine, making 577 horsepower and 664 lb-feet of torque. The SL 450 and SL 550 trims feature a 9-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive (RWD) while the AMG SL 63 gets a 7-speed automatic. In the SL 450, you can expect fuel economy of 20 mpg city, 28 highway, and 23 combined. In the SL 550, ratings drop to 17 mpg city, 25 highway, and 20 combined. The AMG SL 63 returns 15 mpg city, 23 highway, and 18 combined.

The SL-Class comes standard with leather upholstery, heated seats with memory settings, and dual-zone climate control. Options include ventilated seats, massaging seats, and the Airscarf heater system. Both the SL 450 and SL 550 trims of the Grand Edition get Tundra Brown Pearl leather upholstery with Golden Olive Pearl contrast trim, embroidered headrests, and a leather-trimmed sport steering wheel.

The SL-Class comes standard with a 12.3-inch infotainment display with Bluetooth, satellite radio, navigation, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 9-speaker Harman Kardon audio system. Upgrades include a Wi-Fi hotspot and a 12-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system.

Standard safety features include a reversing camera, the Pre-Safe pre-collision system, and driver-drowsiness monitoring. The optional driver-assistance package adds lane-departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. Additional features are available, such as front and rear parking sensors, park assist, and Pre-Safe Plus for rear collisions.

If you’re on the hunt for a luxury roadster, the 2020 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class deserves a spot on your list of candidates. Look for them in US showrooms in 2020.