Used Mercedes-Benz SL-Class for sale nationwide

CarGurus expert rating: 3 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 4.9 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 15.5%
Overall CarGurus rating:* 4.1 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 200
Average Price: Around £150,000

Mercedes-AMG SL (2026) Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Glamorous styling	Hugely expensive
Really enjoyable to drive	Not as agile or exciting as a Porsche 911
Loaded with equipment	Rear seats are cramped

Quick Summary

The Mercedes-AMG SL (2026) is a luxurious 2+2-seat open-top roadster that blends grand-touring comfort with genuine sports car performance. This seventh-generation model, known as the R232, features a fabric soft-top that opens in just 15 seconds and weighs 21kg less than the previous hard-top. The engine line-up is exclusively AMG, ranging from a 375bhp 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder in the SL43, through to a 577bhp 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 in the SL63, and culminating in the flagship SL63 E-Performance with 805bhp combined output. All models feature a nine-speed automatic gearbox, with V8 variants offering 4Matic all-wheel drive for the first time in SL history.

The SL represents a significant shift towards sportier dynamics compared to previous generations, incorporating rear-wheel steering and AMG Active Ride Control on select models. Whilst it may not match the Porsche 911 for handling finesse, the SL excels as a refined, well-equipped grand tourer with impressive performance credentials. The car offers genuine practicality with 231 litres of boot space (110 litres in the E-Hybrid), deeply sculpted front seats, and a beautifully finished interior. Running costs are considerable, with the SL43 achieving 31mpg whilst V8 models manage around 21mpg. Depreciation is historically steep, making nearly-new or used examples more financially sensible choices.

Best for: Buyers seeking a glamorous, high-performance convertible with cutting-edge technology, those wanting a theatrical alternative to the Porsche 911, and drivers prioritising luxury and equipment over outright handling precision.

Not ideal for: Budget-conscious buyers, those seeking the finest handling dynamics, drivers requiring spacious rear seats, or anyone concerned about steep depreciation and high running costs.


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the SL if: You desire a glamorous, high-performance convertible with cutting-edge technology, want a theatrical alternative to the Porsche 911, or prioritise luxury and equipment over outright handling precision.

Consider alternatives if: You seek the finest handling dynamics, require spacious rear seats, are concerned about steep depreciation, or wish to minimise running costs.

Competitive Position: The Mercedes-AMG SL (2026) is a compelling luxury convertible that offers genuine performance, refinement, and technology. Whilst the Porsche 911 Cabriolet edges ahead in handling finesse and value retention, the SL compensates with superior equipment, glamorous styling, and a more theatrical driving experience. The Bentley Continental GTC and Aston Martin Vantage offer comparable luxury credentials, though at similar price points. The SL's main weakness is its steep depreciation and high running costs, making nearly-new or used examples significantly more attractive propositions. For buyers prioritising style, comfort, and technology over pure handling dynamics, the SL represents an excellent choice in the premium convertible segment.

Read our full Mercedes-AMG SL Review

*The Overall CarGurus rating: that informs these recommendations is based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from April 2026, CarGurus expert reviews, and CarGurus user reviews.