2018 Mercedes-Benz AMG SL: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2018 Mercedes-Benz AMG SL is a carryover with no major product changes. It keeps the SL 63 AMG and SL 65 AMG from the prior year, with no confirmed redesign, powertrain update, or major technology change.
About the 2018 Mercedes-Benz AMG SL
6th-generation R231, post-refresh year; final U.S. model year for the SL 65 AMG.
The 2018 AMG SL is a two-seat retractable-hardtop roadster built for very fast, comfortable long-distance driving rather than a stripped-down track experience. Mercedes combined handcrafted turbocharged AMG engines, rear-wheel drive, active suspension, powerful brakes, and a quiet leather-lined cabin. Its main distinction is the ability to function as an enclosed luxury coupe with the roof raised and an open-air grand tourer with the roof lowered.
For 2018, Mercedes positioned the SL 63 AMG as the sharper V8 performance roadster, pairing 577 horsepower with active suspension, stronger brakes, a locking rear differential, and ventilated massage seats. The SL 65 AMG was the more powerful and comprehensively equipped grand tourer, with a 621-hp V12, a variable-tint glass roof, advanced driver assistance, and a 12-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system.
2018 Mercedes-Benz AMG SL specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Engine | V8, Twin Turbo, 5.5 Liter | V12, Twin Turbo, 6.0 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 7-Spd w/AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS MCT | Automatic, 7-Spd w/7G-Tronic Plus |
| Drivetrain | RWD | RWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 16 mpg | 13 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 25 mpg | 22 mpg |
| Horsepower | 577 hp | 621 hp |
| Torque | 564 lb-ft | 738 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 13.5 cu-ft | 13.5 cu-ft |
| Seats | 2 | 2 |
| Doors | 2 | 2 |
| Alarm System | ||
| Automatic Emergency Braking | ||
| Automatic High Beams | ||
| Blindspot Sensors | ||
| Lane Departure Warning | ||
| Park Assist | ||
| Rear View Camera | ||
| Alloy Wheels | ||
| LED Headlights | ||
| Panorama Moon Roof | ||
| Navigation System | ||
| Premium Audio | ||
| Smartphone Interface | ||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | ||
| Heated Front Seats | ||
| Leather Interior Trim | ||
| Leather Seats | ||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | ||
| Rear Window Shades | ||
| Remote Start | ||
| Ventilated Front Seats | ||
Frequently asked questions
Was the 2018 Mercedes-Benz AMG SL redesigned?
No. The 2018 AMG SL was not redesigned or refreshed; it continued as part of the sixth-generation R231 lineup with no meaningful styling or structural changes.
Which AMG SL models were offered for 2018?
The 2018 U.S. AMG SL lineup consisted of the V8-powered SL 63 AMG and the V12-powered SL 65 AMG. Both were rear-wheel-drive roadsters with seven-speed automatic transmissions and retractable hardtops.
Was 2018 the final year for the Mercedes-AMG SL 65 in the U.S.?
Yes. The 2018 model year was the final U.S. model year for the V12-powered SL 65 AMG.
Did the 2018 AMG SL receive a major technology or safety update?
No. The 2018 AMG SL received no major infotainment, connectivity, or safety-suite overhaul.
Is the 2018 AMG SL all-wheel drive?
No. Both 2018 AMG SL models use rear-wheel drive; all-wheel drive was not part of this lineup.
2018 Mercedes-Benz AMG SL Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2018 Mercedes-Benz AMG SL.