The Mercedes-Benz SL has always been an icon, instantly recognizable and admired. The 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL550 Roadster continues this legacy, turning heads and sparking conversations wherever it goes. Its striking design and open-top freedom make a powerful statement, even to those not deeply invested in automotive excellence. The SL550 isn’t just a car; it’s an experience.
Classic Roadster Design Meets Modern Luxury
The 2013 SL550 Roadster embodies classic sports car proportions with a contemporary Mercedes-Benz design language. Its long hood, dominated by the prominent Mercedes-Benz tristar badge, flows gracefully into the steeply raked windshield and the abbreviated rear deck. The optional 19-inch AMG five-spoke wheels and bold hood vents add to its athletic stance, prompting onlookers to mistake it for the higher-performance SL63 AMG. However, the SL550 holds its own as a symbol of refined power and sophisticated style.
The power-retractable hardtop is a defining feature of the SL Roadster. In a mere 6 seconds, the roof elegantly folds away, transforming the coupe into an open-air cruiser. Even with the top down, the trunk offers practical space for luggage, expandable when the top is raised. The intricate ballet of the trunk lid and roof mechanism to access the cargo area is a testament to Mercedes-Benz’s engineering prowess.
Interior Comfort and Refinement
Inside the 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL550 Roadster, luxury and comfort are paramount. The cabin is spacious, accommodating even taller occupants with ease. Motorized adjustments for the seats and steering wheel, complete with memory settings and an Easy Exit function, ensure personalized comfort. Premium materials and meticulous craftsmanship are evident throughout the interior, creating an ambiance of sophisticated indulgence.
Thoughtful features enhance the open-top driving experience. A motorized windscreen minimizes wind buffeting, while the Airscarf system gently warms the neck on cooler days. Heated and ventilated seats, along with automatic climate control that adapts to top-down motoring, ensure comfort in various conditions. The remarkably quiet cabin, even with the top down, allows for easy conversation and phone calls, making every drive enjoyable. Massage seats further elevate the experience, turning long journeys into relaxing escapes.
For those who desire a coupe-like experience with the option of open sky, the optional Magic Sky Control roof is a marvel. This panoramic glass roof can switch from transparent to opaque at the touch of a button, offering customizable light control while blocking UV and IR rays.
Potent Performance and Smooth Handling
The heart of the 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL550 Roadster is a 4.6-liter V-8 biturbo engine, delivering a potent 429 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque. This engine provides effortless acceleration and smooth power delivery, making every drive exhilarating. While fuel economy is not its primary focus, features like direct injection and a stop-start system contribute to respectable figures for its class.
The optional Active Body Control (ABC) adaptive suspension elevates the handling and ride quality to another level. With Comfort and Sport modes, ABC adjusts to driving conditions, providing a comfortable ride on city streets and enhanced control during spirited driving. The system automatically lowers the car at higher speeds for improved aerodynamics and stability. Around town, the SL550 glides effortlessly, while on winding roads, it responds with precision and composure.
The seven-speed automatic transmission offers smooth and responsive shifts, with Sport and manual modes available for a more engaging driving experience. While the standard suspension is likely excellent, the ABC system takes the SL550’s handling to a new dimension of comfort and control.
Technology and Infotainment
The 2013 SL550 Roadster is equipped with a comprehensive suite of technology features. The infotainment system, based on Mercedes-Benz’s COMAND interface, offers navigation, multiple audio sources, and connectivity options. Standard features include a Harman Kardon Logic7 surround-sound system, providing a premium audio experience.
However, the new Comand Online system, while offering web-connected services like Google Local Search, Yelp, and Facebook, is noted for its slow performance. Navigating the menus and loading online features can be a frustrating experience, especially compared to contemporary systems. Voice control offers some respite for navigation input, but the overall Comand Online system is a weak point in an otherwise technologically advanced vehicle.
Despite the shortcomings of Comand Online, the SL550 is equipped with a range of driver aids and safety features, including Attention Assist, lane-keeping assist, pre-collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, and a rearview camera with parking assistance. These technologies enhance safety and convenience, contributing to a confident driving experience.
Conclusion: A Timeless Roadster with Minor Tech Hiccups
The 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL550 Roadster remains a compelling choice in the luxury convertible segment. Its stunning design, opulent interior, potent performance, and comfortable ride deliver an exceptional open-top driving experience. While the Comand Online system may not be the most responsive, it doesn’t detract significantly from the overall appeal of this remarkable vehicle.
For those seeking a prestigious roadster that blends timeless elegance with modern performance, the 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL550 Roadster is a worthy contender. It’s a car that stirs emotions, provides exhilarating drives, and embodies the essence of luxurious open-air motoring.
Pros:
- Powerful and smooth V-8 Biturbo engine
- Exceptionally quiet and comfortable top-down motoring
- Premium audio system and extensive media sources
- Luxurious and spacious interior
Cons:
- Sluggish Comand Online infotainment system
- Complex infotainment system interface
- Predictably low fuel economy
2013 Mercedes-Benz SL550 Roadster Tech Specs:
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model | 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL550 Roadster |
| Engine | 4.6-liter biturbo V-8 |
| Transmission | 7-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | RWD |
| Horsepower | 429 hp |
| Torque | 516 lb-ft |
| EPA Fuel Economy | 16 city / 24 highway / 19 combined mpg |
| Audio System | Harman Kardon Logic7 5.1 surround sound |
| Base Price (as tested) | $105,500 |
| Price as Tested | $124,345 |
