2014 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class Reviews, Pricing & Specs
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Following a full sixth-generation makeover in 2013, the Mercedes-Benz SL-Class 2-seat roadster receives only minor updating for 2014. An analog dash-top clock becomes a standard feature in the SL550, and the automaker adds new Cardinal Red Metallic and Polar White exterior colors. Otherwise, the SL remains unchanged.
Sixth-generation improvements were extensive, and included an all-aluminum body shell designed to reduce the SL's weight, new exterior styling, a new powerplant, an updated audio system, 2 new retractable hard tops and a number of newly available driver-assistance systems, including a drowsiness detector called Attention Assist and an Adaptive Brake. The design changes make the iconic SL, which dates back 60 years, even more desirable to its upscale target audience and has led some to call the SL the official car of the rich and famous.
Due to its new aluminum body shell, the SL now tips the scales at a relatively light 4,001 pounds, compared to 4,220 pounds for the previous generation. The weight reduction helps to improve the SL's agility and handling characteristics, as well as its fuel-economy numbers. The new SL manages to achieve its trimmed-down weight while adding almost 2 inches in length and more than 2 inches of width. These greater dimensions were met with dismay by some critics, who felt the larger size actually diminishes the SL's true nature as a small, sporty roadster. However, the SL's cabin now offers more shoulder room (55.5 inches vs. 54) and headroom (39.1 vs. 37.7) than the previous generation, although legroom remains about the same.
Mercedes-Benz offers the SL in SL550 Roadster, SL63 AMG Roadster and SL65 AMG Roadster trims for 2014, each with a different engine and transmission. The SL550 received a new 4.6-liter bi-turbo V8 in 2013, which replaced a non-turbo 5.5-liter V8. The new V8 delivers 12 percent more power than the previous version, generating 429 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque from 1,800-3,500 rpm. It drives the SL550 from 0–60 in 4.5 seconds. The bi-turbo V8 mates to a 7-speed automatic transmission with a manual-shift mode and steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters. It manages fuel economy numbers of 18 mpg city/25 highway. An Eco start/stop system turns off the engine at stoplights or when idling to conserve fuel and automatically starts it up again when the driver releases the brake.
The SL63 AMG pumps up the power with a handcrafted 5.5-liter bi-turbo V8 engine, which produces 530 hp and 590 lb-ft of torque. Its 0-60 time drops to 4.2 seconds. The big V8 links to a 7-speed AMG Speedshift MCT automatic transmission, also with paddle shifters, and posts fuel economy numbers of 16/25. The SL63 AMG also includes the Eco start/stop feature. At the top of the heap, the SL65 AMG gets a beefy handcrafted 6.0-liter bi-turbo AMG V12 powerplant, a rarity in the automotive world today. The V12 produces a staggering 621 hp and 738 lb-ft torque at 2,300–4,300 rpm. It pushes the SL from 0-60 in 3.9 seconds and manages relatively decent fuel economy numbers of 14/21. All three engines require premium fuel.
For its next-generation update in 2013, the SL received a new front fascia with a wide upright grille, deep front air dam with mesh air intakes and large centrally located Mercedes-Benz 3-pointed star. HID headlights with highbeam assist and LED running lights come standard. Sculpted sides and lower side sills help improve aerodynamics, and the rear end features revised taillights, which manage to vaguely retain the traditional triangular shape associated with the SL. Some reviewers find the trunk design a little chunkier than previous version's, with less overhang. A power retractable roof opens and closes in about 16 seconds, stows in the trunk and features a rear window that pivots 180 degrees to help conserve cargo space. The roof features a panorama design with transparent glass on top and a manual mesh sunshade to limit the amount of light entering the cabin. Owners can also add a Magic Sky Control roof with a transparent top, which lightens or darkens automatically depending on exterior light.
The SL rides on a performance-oriented 4-wheel multilink suspension made of lightweight yet rigid aluminum, and includes a semi-active adaptive damping system, which continually makes adjustments based on driver inputs and road surfaces to ensure sharp handling and a smooth ride. The damping system includes Comfort and Sport modes, enabling drivers to adjust the firmness of the ride. Both the SL63 AMG and SL65 AMG receive an upgraded suspension with AMG-calibrated Active Body Control.
A standard Torque Vectoring Brake system shifts torque between the rear wheels and applies the brake to the inside wheel in tight turns to ensure traction and stability. Perforated and ventilated front brake discs help dissipate heat and provide good stopping power, while the electromechanical variable-ratio steering delivers precise control and good feedback, as well as quicker steering with a lighter effort at lower speeds. The SL550 rides on 18-inch staggered-width alloy wheels, while the SL63 AMG gets 19-inch AMG alloy wheels. The SL65 AMG receives staggered-width 19-inch wheels in the front and 20-inch wheels in the rear for optimal grip under hard acceleration.
Inside, generous amounts of sun-reflecting leather upholstery and wood trim in a variety of colors, including Burl Walnut, Black Ash and Satin Brown Poplar, create an inviting yet sporty environment. The heated and ventilated multicountour seats feature 12-way power adjustment and 4-way lumbar support with memory, as well as a massage feature and an Airscarf neck-level heating vent built right into the seatback, while the thick 3-spoke steering wheel comes wrapped in Nappa leather. A power-operated windblocker mesh screen behind the seats helps prevent wind buffeting in the cabin. Standard tech features include a navigation system with an 80GB hard drive and a 600-watt, 12-speaker Harman Kardon audio system with HD radio, SiriusXM satellite radio, a 6-CD/DVD changer, Bluetooth and a USB port. Dual-zone climate control, keyless entry, an illuminated entry system and auto-dimming interior and side mirrors are among the other standard features. Nappa leather upholstery comes standard on the SL63 AMG and SL65 AMG. A wood/leather steering wheel, soft-close doors and a 900-watt Bang & Olufsen audio system are among the optional features.
Safety features include 8 airbags, electronic stability control and antilock brakes with brake assist, as well as a rear-view camera, a parking assist and pop-up roll bars. Mercedes-Benz also includes its Pre-Safe system, which tightens the seat belts and closes the windows in the event of an imminent accident, and its mbrace 2 connectivity system, which uses mobile apps to enable owners to manage their vehicles and access services from the car or a smartphone. New safety options for 2014 include a blind-spot alert system and a lane-keeping assist system.
User reviews for 2014 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class
Write a reviewUser rating:
by Rich K
Dec 23, 2023
Great car just don’t buy one with ABC suspension and make sure you have it checked out!Really expensive to repair always thousands of dollars no matter what is wrong! Also get the best warranty to can for it! Last avoidBenz Dealers, charge 5 times price for repairs!!!Dec 23, 2023
by Anonymous
Apr 04, 2023
This car had quite a few miles, front was separated from the hood. Fender on left side was
separated. Paint did not match from hood and front grill. Car drive ok but too many things that weren’t right Apr 04, 2023
by Randy C
Mar 04, 2023
Wonderful car! Clean, tight and powerful...Not to mention beautiful!
Enjoy Mar 04, 2023
User rating:
by Rich K
Dec 23, 2023
Great car just don’t buy one with ABC suspension and make sure you have it checked out!Really expensive to repair always thousands of dollars no matter what is wrong! Also get the best warranty to can for it! Last avoidBenz Dealers, charge 5 times price for repairs!!!Dec 23, 2023
by Anonymous
Apr 04, 2023
This car had quite a few miles, front was separated from the hood. Fender on left side was
separated. Paint did not match from hood and front grill. Car drive ok but too many things that weren’t right Apr 04, 2023
by Randy C
Mar 04, 2023
Wonderful car! Clean, tight and powerful...Not to mention beautiful!
Enjoy Mar 04, 2023
by Jerome P
Dec 24, 2022
When taken as a GT instead of a pure sports car, the Mercedes-Benz SL-class is tough to beat. Loaded with comfort features ahead of its time, extremely comfortable and compliant, can produce real-world performance when needed plus an example of world-leading craftsmanship using top-notch materials there are no better 2-person personal cruisers.Dec 24, 2022
by John C
Jun 22, 2022
Well made, smooth ride. Great acceleration when the turbo opensJun 22, 2022
by Marty J
May 17, 2022
I love mercedes. They know how to build a comfortable and luxurious vehicle. May 17, 2022
by Steve S
May 09, 2022
It’s a real roadster. Plenty of power … and a hardtop convertible.May 09, 2022
by Steven E
Sep 22, 2021
I have been blessed to have owned an SL55 AMG (2007), S550 Cabriolet (2017), SL550 (2007), S550 (2013), E550 (2011), E350 Coupe (2011), GLS550 (2018), GLK (2010), and (way back when) a C240 (1974). Each car was different in many ways and yet each delivered the best ride for the time in which it was designed. Sep 22, 2021
by Anonymous
Aug 28, 2021
I love my car. Its perfect and makes me feel great.Aug 28, 2021
by Jonathan C
Mar 27, 2021
SL Class Best of Best car 2014 ~ 2021 Mar 27, 2021
by Victor R
Nov 20, 2020
This car for me has everything in a car its fast, the dynamic seats the way they hold you in when driving on curvey roads, its luxurious and looks great inside and out.. Nov 20, 2020
by Kirk R
Nov 15, 2020
Amazing automobile. Truly the best combination of performance and comfort. The retractable roof takes the car literally “over the top”! The attention to detail, form and fit, is impeccable. What a joy to drive!Nov 15, 2020
by David A
Nov 13, 2020
smooth ride with plenty of power. Had a 98 and love this modelNov 13, 2020
by Donald S
Sep 26, 2020
Great car but the brakes go out on many of them. Mercedes needs to put better brakes on the cars. Brakes including rotors and wheels cost a lot of money to replace.Sep 26, 2020
by Yoel B
Aug 21, 2020
Perfecto todo lastima que mi crédito este bajo por ahora Aug 21, 2020
by David G
Sep 11, 2014
Pro
On of the best cars I have ever owned. Performance, handling and breaking is truly amazing. I have received several compliments from strangers on how stylish the car is.
Con
Definitely not a family car. You will also spend more money on insurance and gas.
If you would like a second car this is the car for you. I wouldn't recommend this to be your primary vehicle Sep 11, 2014
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2014 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class Pricing
Original MSRP
$106,700 to $214,500Price range
$34,322 to $35,397Average price on CG
$35,376YoY price change
$34,639 to $35,376Trims & specs
Air Conditioning
Active charcoal air filtration · Automatic climate control front air conditioning · Dual front air conditioning zones
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Dual front knee airbags · Passenger airbag deactivation: occupant sensing deactivation · Front side airbags · Front side curtain airbags
Audio System
Antenna Type: diversity · Bluetooth auxiliary audio input · Hard Drive: 40GB · In-Dash CD: DVD · MP3 player: CD MP3 Playback · Premium Brand: Harman-Kardon · HD radio · Satellite Radio: SiriusXM · 2 subwoofers · Surround audio: 5.1 · Total Number of Speakers: 14 · 600 watts
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel · Front brake diameter: 13.0 · Front brakes: ventilated disc · Rear brake diameter: 11.8 · Rear brakes: disc
Comfort Features
Armrests: front center · Center console trim: wood · Dash trim: wood · Door sill trim: aluminum · Door trim: wood · Floor Mat Material: carpet · Floor Material: carpet · Floor Mats: front · Foot pedal trim: stainless steel · Shift knob trim: leather · Steering wheel trim: leather
Convenience Features
Active parking system: driver controlled brake, gas and gear selection · Center console: front console with storage · Cupholders: front · Dimming rearview mirror: auto-dimming · Memorized settings: 3 driver · Multi-function remote: trunk release · One-touch windows: 2 · Power outlet(s): 12V front · Power windows: lockout button · Reading lights: front · Steering wheel: power tilt and telescopic · Steering wheel mounted controls: multi-function screen controls · Storage: door pockets · Universal garage door opener: Homelink · Vanity mirrors: dual illuminating
Driver Seat
Adjustable lumbar support: 4-way power · Power adjustments: 16
Drivetrain
Axle ratio: 2.65
Exterior Features
Door handle color: body-color · Exhaust: dual exhaust tips · Exhaust tip color: stainless-steel · Front bumper color: body-color · Grille color: black · Mirror color: body-color · Rear bumper color: body-color · Window trim: black
Headrests
Front headrests: power adjustable · Number of front headrests: 2
In Car Entertainment
Connected in-car apps: Facebook · Infotainment screen size: 7 in.
Instrumentation
Fuel economy display: MPG · Warnings and reminders: low fuel level
Lights
Headlights: cornering · Tail and brake lights: LED
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: power
Passenger Seat
Power adjustments: 16
Roof
Convertible rear window: glass · Convertible roof: power retractable hard top · Moonroof: sliding sunshade · Sunroof: panoramic
Safety
Active head restraints: driver · Camera system: rearview · Crumple zones: rear · Impact sensor: fuel cut-off · Parking sensors: rear
Seatbelts
Front seatbelts: 3-point · Seatbelt force limiters: front · Seatbelt pretensioners: front · Seatbelt warning sensor: driver and passenger
Seats
Driver seat power adjustments: reclining · Front seat type: bucket · Passenger seat power adjustments: 4-way power lumbar · Upholstery: leather
Suspension
Front Shock Type: gas shock absorbers · Front Spring Type: coil springs · Front Suspension Classification: independent · Front Suspension Type: multi-link · Rear Shock Type: gas shock absorbers · Rear Spring Type: coil springs · Rear Suspension Classification: independent · Rear Suspension Type: multi-link · Stabilizer bar(s): rear · Suspension control: electronic
Telematics
Driver assistance app: roadside assistance · Navigation system: touch screen display · Phone: voice activated · Phone wireless data link: Bluetooth · Satellite communications: mbrace · Smart device app function: maintenance status
Tires
Type: performance
Tires and Rims
Wheel type: aluminum alloy
Wheels
Wheel spokes: 5
Windows
Front wipers: speed sensitive · Power windows: remote operation
Air Conditioning
Active charcoal air filtration · Automatic climate control front air conditioning · Dual front air conditioning zones
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Dual front knee airbags · Passenger airbag deactivation: occupant sensing deactivation · Front side airbags · Front side curtain airbags
Audio System
Antenna Type: diversity · Bluetooth auxiliary audio input · Hard Drive: 40GB · In-Dash CD: DVD · MP3 player: CD MP3 Playback · Premium Brand: Harman-Kardon · AM/FM radio · Satellite Radio: SiriusXM · 2 subwoofers · Surround audio: 5.1 · Total Number of Speakers: 14 · 600 watts
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel · Front brake diameter: 13.0 · Front brakes: ventilated disc · Rear brake diameter: 11.8 · Rear brakes: disc
Comfort Features
Armrests: front center · Center console trim: wood · Dash trim: wood · Door sill trim: aluminum · Door trim: wood · Floor Mat Material: carpet · Floor Material: carpet · Floor Mats: front · Foot pedal trim: stainless steel · Shift knob trim: leather · Steering wheel trim: leather
Convenience Features
Active parking system: driver controlled brake, gas and gear selection · Center console: front console with storage · Cupholders: front · Dimming rearview mirror: auto-dimming · Memorized settings: 3 driver · Multi-function remote: keyless entry with panic alarm · One-touch windows: 2 · Power outlet(s): 12V front · Power windows: lockout button · Reading lights: front · Steering wheel: power tilt and telescopic · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio · Storage: door pockets · Universal garage door opener: Homelink · Vanity mirrors: dual illuminating
Driver Seat
Adjustable lumbar support: 4-way power · Power adjustments: 16
Drivetrain
Axle ratio: 2.65
Exterior Features
Door handle color: body-color · Exhaust: dual exhaust tips · Exhaust tip color: stainless-steel · Front bumper color: body-color · Grille color: black · Mirror color: body-color · Rear bumper color: body-color · Window trim: black
Headrests
Front headrests: power adjustable · Number of front headrests: 2
In Car Entertainment
Connected in-car apps: Google search · Infotainment screen size: 7 in.
Instrumentation
Fuel economy display: MPG · Warnings and reminders: low fuel level
Lights
Headlights: cornering · Tail and brake lights: LED
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: heated
Passenger Seat
Power adjustments: 16
Roof
Convertible rear window: glass · Convertible roof: power · Moonroof: sliding sunshade · Sunroof: panoramic
Safety
Active head restraints: driver · Camera system: rearview · Crumple zones: rear · Impact sensor: battery disconnect · Parking sensors: rear
Seatbelts
Front seatbelts: 3-point · Seatbelt force limiters: front · Seatbelt pretensioners: front · Seatbelt warning sensor: driver and passenger
Seats
Driver seat power adjustments: reclining · Front seat type: bucket · Passenger seat power adjustments: 4-way power lumbar · Upholstery: premium leather
Suspension
Front Shock Type: gas shock absorbers · Front Spring Type: coil springs · Front Suspension Classification: independent · Front Suspension Type: multi-link · Rear Shock Type: gas shock absorbers · Rear Spring Type: coil springs · Rear Suspension Classification: independent · Rear Suspension Type: multi-link · Stabilizer bar(s): rear · Suspension control: electronic
Telematics
Driver assistance app: roadside assistance · Navigation system: hard drive navigation system · Phone: voice activated · Phone wireless data link: Bluetooth · Satellite communications: mbrace · Smart device app function: maintenance status
Tires
Type: performance
Tires and Rims
Wheel type: aluminum alloy
Wheels
Wheel spokes: 5
Windows
Front wipers: variable intermittent · Power windows: remote operation
Air Conditioning
Active charcoal air filtration · Automatic climate control front air conditioning · Dual front air conditioning zones
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Dual front knee airbags · Passenger airbag deactivation: occupant sensing deactivation · Front side airbags · Front side curtain airbags
Audio System
Antenna Type: diversity · Bluetooth auxiliary audio input · Hard Drive: 40GB · 6 disc in-dash CD · MP3 player: CD MP3 Playback · Premium Brand: Bang & Olufsen · HD radio · Satellite Radio: SiriusXM · 2 subwoofers · Surround audio: 5.1 · Total Number of Speakers: 14 · 900 watts
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel · Front brake diameter: 13.0 · Front brakes: ventilated disc · Rear brake diameter: 11.8 · Rear brakes: disc
Comfort Features
Armrests: front center · Center console trim: wood · Dash trim: wood · Door sill trim: aluminum · Door trim: wood · Floor Mat Material: carpet · Floor Material: carpet · Floor Mats: front · Foot pedal trim: stainless steel · Shift knob trim: leather · Steering wheel trim: leather
Convenience Features
Active parking system: driver controlled brake, gas and gear selection · Adaptive stop and go cruise control: semi-automatic · Center console: front console with storage · Cruise control: adaptive · Cupholders: front · Dimming rearview mirror: auto-dimming · Memorized settings: 3 driver · Multi-function remote: proximity entry system · One-touch windows: 2 · Power outlet(s): 12V front · Power windows: lockout button · Reading lights: front · Steering wheel: power tilt and telescopic · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio · Storage: door pockets · Universal garage door opener: Homelink · Vanity mirrors: dual illuminating
Driver Seat
Adjustable lumbar support: 4-way power · Power adjustments: 16
Drivetrain
Axle ratio: 2.65
Exterior Features
Door handle color: body-color · Exhaust: dual exhaust tips · Exhaust tip color: stainless-steel · Front bumper color: body-color · Grille color: black · Mirror color: body-color · Rear bumper color: body-color · Window trim: black
Headrests
Front headrests: power adjustable · Number of front headrests: 2
In Car Entertainment
Connected in-car apps: Yelp · Infotainment screen size: 7 in.
Instrumentation
Fuel economy display: MPG · Warnings and reminders: low fuel level
Lights
Headlights: self-leveling · Tail and brake lights: LED
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: power
Passenger Seat
Power adjustments: 16
Roof
Convertible rear window: glass · Convertible roof: hard top · Moonroof: sliding sunshade · Sunroof: panoramic
Safety
Active head restraints: driver · Automatic emergency braking: front · Camera system: rearview · Crumple zones: front · Impact sensor: post-collision safety system · Parking sensors: rear · Pre-Collision Warning System: audible warning
Seatbelts
Front seatbelts: 3-point · Seatbelt force limiters: front · Seatbelt pretensioners: front · Seatbelt warning sensor: driver and passenger
Seats
Driver seat power adjustments: reclining · Front seat type: bucket · Passenger seat power adjustments: 4-way power lumbar · Upholstery: premium leather
Suspension
Front Shock Type: gas shock absorbers · Front Spring Type: coil springs · Front Suspension Classification: independent · Front Suspension Type: multi-link · Rear Shock Type: gas shock absorbers · Rear Spring Type: coil springs · Rear Suspension Classification: independent · Rear Suspension Type: multi-link · Stabilizer bar(s): rear · Suspension control: electronic
Telematics
Driver assistance app: roadside assistance · Navigation system: touch screen display · Phone: voice activated · Phone wireless data link: Bluetooth · Satellite communications: mbrace · Smart device app function: vehicle location
Tires
Type: performance
Tires and Rims
Wheel type: aluminum alloy
Wheels
Wheel spokes: 5
Windows
Front wipers: rain sensing · Power windows: remote operation