A new luxury roadster with a four-cylinder engine debuted in South Korea.
On Friday, Mercedes-Benz Korea introduced the Mercedes-AMG SL 43, which the brand describes as a new symbol of the AMG era, combining classic aesthetics with state-of-the-art technology.
Fusing Classic with Innovation
The SL 43 is a modern reinterpretation of the iconic 1952 300 SL racing car. Its long wheelbase, sleek silhouette, and AMG-specific radiator grille create a bold exterior—the rear end swaps angular tailpipes for round exhaust outlets, adding refinement. Buyers can personalize their SL 43 with various exterior colors, wheels, and interior trims.
Comfortable and Practical Interior
The SL 43 features a 2+2 seating layout, which allows space for up to four passengers for short trips. Foldable rear seats and the ISOFIX system make it family-friendly.
The 213-240 liter trunk space is ample for daily use, while the Mercedes-Benz’s “me connect” features enhance convenience with wireless charging and remote start capabilities.
The cabin features premium Nappa leather seats with memory, heating, and ventilation functions, plus an air scarf feature for added comfort. Optional massage seats, a Burmester sound system, and 64-color ambient lighting create an immersive driving environment.
A 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and 11.9-inch center display are strategically placed between the air vents, which optimizes visibility and ease of use. The Nappa leather AMG performance steering wheel and standard driver assistance systems ensure both luxury and safety.
Impressive Four-Cylinder Performance
The standout feature is the powertrain. The SL 43 has AMG’s M139 2.0L inline 4-cylinder turbocharged gasoline engine, embodying the ‘One Man, One Engine’ philosophy. It delivers 421 horsepower and 510 Nm (51.0 kg·m) of torque. A 48V electric system and electric exhaust gas turbocharger improve responsiveness and efficiency.
A second-generation belt-driven starter generator (RSG) adds another 10kW, accelerating the vehicle from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 4.7 seconds.
The AMG Speedshift MCT 9-speed transmission provides fast and smooth gear changes, even at high speeds.
Limited Edition Inspired by the Great White Shark
Mercedes-Benz Korea also revealed the Great White Edition, a special version of the SL 43 limited to just 17 units. Inspired by the great white shark, it features a white Manufaktur exterior, a soft red top, and red seat belts.
This edition is also available for select AMG models like the GT 43 4MATIC+ and the new G 63.
In South Korea, the SL 43 is 155.6 million KRW (approximately $117,000), while the Great White Edition is priced at 168.6 million KRW (approximately $127,000).
Uncertain Market Response
The AMG SL 43’s competitiveness in the high-performance roadster market is yet to be determined. Some consumers are skeptical, saying the vehicle’s true value will only be recognized after depreciation.
Despite this, Mercedes-Benz remains confident. They believe the SL 43 reflects AMG’s core values—heritage, innovation, design, and technology—and will play a key role in shaping the brand’s future in the segment.
With the launch of the SL 43, Mercedes-Benz aims to strengthen its position in the high-performance roadster market by offering a balanced mix of emotional appeal and technological innovation.
