The pinnacle of performance in the Mercedes-Benz SL-Class, the SL65 AMG is the thrilling result of dropping a V12 engine into the brand's flagship roadster. As one of the most exclusive cars you can buy of any type, the 65 AMG represents a quest for perfection in open-air luxury motoring.
What's New for 2015
You can now select a high-contrast design package for greater distinction inside and out.
Choosing Your Mercedes-Benz SL65 AMG
Under the 65 AMG's elongated hood you'll find a hand-built twin-turbo V12 that puts out a thunderous 621 horsepower and 738 pound-feet of torque. All that thrust is funneled through a specially programmed seven-speed automatic transmission. Other performance upgrades include larger brakes, 19-inch front and 20-inch rear wheels, special gauges and displays, and the most aggressive suspension tuning in the lineup. Not surprisingly, the sprint from zero to 60 mph passes in just 3.9 seconds.
All features available on lesser SLs come standard on the 65 AMG. That means you get indulgences like ventilated and massaging seats, soft-close doors, infrared night vision, collision avoidance and mitigation systems, and a 14-speaker Bang & Olufsen surround-sound system. The power hard top contains a panoramic glass panel with an electric tinting feature known as Magic Sky Control. You have a choice of carbon fiber, aluminum or wood interior trim to go with the AMG-spec Nappa leather seats.
The available AMG Performance Media display provides a range of performance data such as track results, g-forces and real-time engine output. The 65 AMG's in-dash infotainment screen can get a features called SplitView, which projects different images to the driver and passenger at the same time. With the Exterior Carbon Fiber package, the lower front fascia, mirror housings and spoiler are constructed of weight-saving carbon fiber. You can also order carbon-ceramic brakes and a wood-trimmed steering wheel.
New this year is the High Contrast Styling package, which adds a black-painted roof, gloss black body components and unique wheels. You get more of the gloss black treatment inside, offset by Platinum White leather seats.
The Performance Media system is a useful addition for competitive driving and a high-quality novelty at all other times. At $2,500, it's worth it. The carbon-ceramic brakes are pricey at $8,950, so we only recommend them if you really do intend to hit the track.