FYI: The new 2025 Mercedes-AMG SL 63 SE Performance offers an exhilarating yet nuanced convertible experience with an 805 horsepower hybrid powertrain, blending luxury and electrification but leaving questions about its electric range capability.
Test Drive Report: 2025 Mercedes-AMG SL 63 SE Performance
Immendingen, Germany – The scenic, undulating roads of the southern German countryside served as the picturesque backdrop for our test drive of Mercedes’ latest marvel, the 2025 Mercedes-AMG SL 63 SE Performance. Nestled just outside the quaint town of Immendingen is Mercedes’ Testing Technology Center, where we got behind the wheel of this powerful yet refined convertible hybrid.
A Brief Encounter with Power
Our adventure consisted of two 30-minute drives through winding country roads and a leisurely drive through a nearby village. High-speed thrills on the Autobahn or the testing center’s advanced tracks weren’t part of this experience. However, the SL 63 SE Performance, a convertible counterpart to the GT 63, showcased remarkable capabilities during this brief yet engaging test.
Powertrain Precision
The SL 63 SE Performance boasts the same robust powertrain found in its GT sibling. Key specs include:
- Engine: 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8
- Transmission: Nine-speed automatic
- Drivetrain: 4Matic+ all-wheel drive
- Electric Motor: Rear-mounted with a two-speed gearbox
- Battery Pack: 6.1-kilowatt
- Horsepower and Torque: 805 hp and 1,047 lb-ft
- Electric Range: Estimated at eight miles in European tests
- Acceleration: 0-60 mph in 2.8 seconds
- Top Speed: 196 mph
The vehicle’s physical dimensions are nearly identical to the GT 63, with the SL being just over half an inch shorter. Both models share the same width, wheelbase, and interior features. The SL also includes rear-axle steering, carbon-ceramic brakes, and the intricate Active Ride Control suspension as standard.
Subtle Yet Significant Differences
Despite their similarities, the SL 63 SE Performance has subtle differences, primarily attributed to its suspension tuning. While it retains Active Ride Control, the tuning is a bit softer compared to the GT. This adjustment offers a more relaxed ride without compromising agility, making the steering more forgiving. This makes the SL feel slightly more subdued, aligning with its convertible nature.
Performance and Practicality
However, the elevated power of the SL 63 SE Performance raises a question: Is it overpowered for its character? The 577-hp non-hybrid SL 63 delivers ample excitement, potentially making the 805-hp hybrid version feel excessive.
Electric Elegance and Range Realities
The hybrid model does offer the ability to enjoy quieter, open-top cruising by relying on its electric motor’s 200 hp for serene drives through the countryside. Yet, the limited electric range poses a challenge. The brief all-electric driving capability can be quickly exhausted, necessitating the frequent engagement of the V8 engine to recharge the battery.
Pricing Perspective
The SL 63 SE Performance starts at $208,150, positioning it as a power-packed value compared to its counterparts. Despite its impressive specs and advanced features, the hybrid benefits seem minimal for those seeking extensive electric functionality.
Conclusion: A Study in Contradictions
For those yearning for the ultimate SL experience, the SE Performance is a compelling choice. It combines luxury, power, and open-top enjoyment in a beautifully designed package. However, the hybrid elements may only marginally enhance the driving experience, given their limited electric range. Enthusiasts might find themselves longing for a fully electric version of the SL, focusing on range rather than power.
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Jack Karney
Editor of Automotive.fyi
