2012 Mercedes Benz SL spied with less camo

 2012 Mercedes Benz SL spied with less camo
2012 Mercedes Benz SL spied 14.12.2010 / Copyright SB-Medien

Next-generation Mercedes-Benz SL caught testing next to an Aston Martin Vantage Roadster and a Jaguar XK

Here are the latest spy pics of the upcoming 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL model.

This prototype was spotted on a test outing this morning in Germany without the heavy plastic disguise it was wearing the last time out. With some of the camo dropping away, we get a better look at the next SL's overall shape.

Our spy photographers also report that the SL was in a group of vehicles which included an Aston Martin Vantage Roadster and a Jaguar XK, likely for benchmarking purposes.

The next-generation Mercedes-Benz SL is due sometime next year. It will feature an array of Benz power plants including a new 3.5 liter V6 and a 4.6 liter twin-turbo V8. It will also likely be lighter than its predecessor, with extensive use of carbon-fiber components and reinforced plastics.

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 Pagani Pagani
So far, the shape is very soft and sort of characterless. I would have preferred a more aggressive design. Then again, it is the case with all Mercedes models to look 'soft,' in prototype form, only to wow when released.
December 14, 2010 1:23 pm
 CoktailRO CoktailRO
How come soft and more mellow lines stand for lack of character? Maybe nowadays the only character you can get on a car is the one you receive when buying a carbon fiber body Pagani...just maybe!? Character on a car is instilled more by the mechanics and not the looks, on the other hand maybe you referred to the car's stance which indeed is given more by its looks, but really, with that camouflage on...I do not think you made a fair comment.
December 14, 2010 2:45 pm
 mikemikemikemike mikemikemikemike
I disagree, it is a combination, but characted comes from aesthetics. Cars can have the same v* and look like a TVR, which luxurious British Character or they can have hatrd lines and be like a LAmbo.
December 20, 2010 12:04 am
 Bonganie Bonganie
With the first SLK pics leaked I hope the SL doesnt also go all SLS, it must must have its own personality and loose the "soft roadster" look in order to fight off the tough competion esp from Jag
December 14, 2010 3:02 pm
 Pagani Pagani
@CoktailRO Lighten up and read my entire post. I am one of the biggest Sl fans out there. I am just underwhelmed at these pictures.
December 14, 2010 3:14 pm
 valantise46 valantise46
i really want this car to look good..the previous models of SL's were stunning..but i have my doubts for this one,judging from the latest of merc's designs like the E,CLS,SLK...
December 14, 2010 4:29 pm
 surubutna surubutna
Boring... NEXT!
December 14, 2010 4:57 pm
 Han Solo Han Solo
Beautiful...but the headlights looks a bit too docile though...it needs more attitude (CL type of headlighhts would be better IMO). I love the current SL (the pre facelifted version). It is definitely one of the best sports car I've ever driven. So much power. A bit tail happy but all in the best possible way. I heard the SLS has better handling than the SL though. I saw Tiff and another F1 driver push it to 160 mph on a windy country road. I just hope I can test one of these babies soon.
December 14, 2010 5:41 pm
 benzboy benzboy
lets wait and see it in its AMG look. I think it will be outstanding. As far as the SLS comment goes it is an amazing car and drive , but you better be under six feet tall and skinny , because when i got it it there was no headroom and it felt like i needed a tow truck to get out of the SLS. Still a beautiful car, but off my have to have list!!
December 14, 2010 10:02 pm
 jolz24 jolz24
im not liking the whole upright grill thing merc is doing
December 14, 2010 6:25 pm
 Johnluke Johnluke
Will be class leading and stunning in AMG form like all prevoius Sls.
December 14, 2010 11:28 pm
 PONTIAC G8 GXP PONTIAC G8 GXP
Front reminds me 2009 Blue Zero Concept and rear - new CLS.
December 15, 2010 12:23 am
 PeterPL PeterPL
Which facelift is that, third, fourth?
December 15, 2010 2:31 am
 DUCATI46 DUCATI46
Its going to be a mini SLS.... like the new SLK has turned out looking like. Interesting point the car in the photo with the Aston is different to the ones in the shots.
December 15, 2010 2:45 am
 MTC MTC
now the SLgay really disappoint on how its looks, hope the SL won't be that
December 15, 2010 3:55 am