Model tested: Mercedes SL350 Tiptronic
Price: £65,080
Date tested: July 2008
Road tester: Adrian Higgins

Overall rating: 77%
The SL has been updated for 2008 with beefier looks and the extra power to back it up. We got behind the wheel to see if it lived up to its "incomparable" billing.

1. Looks
The V-shaped bonnet with powerdomes complements a grille that's cleaner than before. Front wing vents and redesigned headlamps create a more purposeful-looking car – reinforced by a more aggressive rear.
8/10

2. Looks inside
The cabin feels roomy and buyers can choose between aluminium and wood finishes. Our aluminium-trim model felt luxurious and modern.
8/10

3. Practicality
The boot can take 235 litres of luggage with the roof down or 339 with it up. You're restricted to one passenger but as far as two-seater sportscars go the SL should meet your everyday needs.
8/10

4. Ride and Handling
There's minimal roll when cornering thanks to adjustable suspension; the £130 direct steer option weights the steering according to the speed to please the driver in you too.
8/10

5. Performance
The V6 SL350 has 316bhp on tap to give a 0-62mph time of 6.2 seconds and a top speed of 155mph. The seven-speed auto delivers power speedily for quick overtaking manoeuvres.
8/10

---

---

6. Running Costs
The SL350 averages 28.5mpg, falls within tax band G, and sits in insurance group 20.
6/10

7. Reliability
Mercedes has a good record for reliability; the folding tin-top roof is no new innovation and there was nothing in our week-long loan to suggest problems.
7/10

8. Safety
New safety features on the 2008 SL include bi-xenon headlights and Intelligent Light System with cornering light function. All come with ESP, brake assist and anti-lock brakes.
8/10

9. Equipment
The SL350 comes with plenty of kit: 17-inch alloy wheels, Bi-Xenon headlamps, parktronic, tinted glass, COMAND (Cockpit Management and Navigation Display) including sat-nav and 6-disc CD changer, aluminium trim, leather-trimmed steering wheel and gear knob and electric heated leather seats. We'd recommend giving serious consideration to the air scarf and direct steer options.
8/10

10. X-Factor
The Mercedes SL boasts a lot of highlights but its best is quite simply its status. It's a great-looking car, and still turns heads. And the fact the styling is backed up by substance makes it better still.
8/10