Mercedes SLS Review

"In case you have any doubts - it looks like something very special indeed"

What is it?

Mercedes is keen to tell us what it isn't - a successor to the original Gullwing (or Supercar 001). However, it sort of is - on account of its, uhm, Gullwing doors. It's also a bucket load faster than the original Gullwing. It's powered by a 563bhp V8, hits 62mph in 3.8seconds (2.2seconds faster than the original) and has a top speed of 197mph (37mph quicker than the original, too). It's light, too - its all-aluminium shell pegs it at 1620kg. So it's light, too.

What's it like on the outside?

It's certainly going to be hard to miss the SLS's square, squat stance. However, that's not a bad thing. The Mercedes is a thing of beauty. Its gullwing doors are its party piece, that's for sure. It also share's the 55 year old Gullwing's signature grille - something that Mercedes has been using, in one form or another, for years. In case you have any doubts - it looks like something very special indeed.

What's it line on the inside?

While headroom is a little tight for anyone much over 6-feet tall (the optional sports seats actually sit a little lower for improved space), the cabin is otherwise cosy and well screwed together – even if there is a lack of storage space accessible on the move. The doors are surprisingly easy to reach, too. It's as well screwed together and properly made as you'd expect a £150,000 Mercedes to be.

What's it like to drive?

The SLS is oddly nimble for something of its size. It seems to shrink around you with familiarity, despite the long bonnet.

Those high figures mean staggering performance on the road. Lightning fast acceleration in just about any gear, delicate throttle response and unexpectedly agile steering mean you can keep the SLS balanced in twisty roads.

Bumps mid-corner, which traditionally throw off competitors, are soaked up with ease. So there's very few wobbles and 'uh oh' moments if you encounter some pothole infested, uneven roads. Like those you'd find in Leeds.

Gear changes are dealt with by Mercedes' very own 'Speedshift' seven-speed, dual-clutch gearbox. It offers immediate changes from the steering wheel mounted paddles with minimal fuss.

It would be rude not to mention the V8. Somehow Mercedes has managed to make an engine so visceral that only those with a prancing horse on their flanks will be able to scoff (but only just).

Verdict

‘Tis time the Italians and (other) Germans cowered in fear, because Mercedes has created a halo car to beat all halo cars. It'll keep you on your toes, reward you when you do well and make you look like an international playboy on tour (even if you're an accountant on the way to lunch). For £150,000 you can't really do much better.

By Bryce Richards