First look at the Mercedes-AMG SL facelift: SL 63 spy shots and updates

Mercedes-AMG is preparing a facelift for the current SL—the first refresh since the roadster debuted four years ago. Spy photographers have captured two SL 63 prototypes, each hiding a camouflaged front bumper. The lower section appears to be reworked: instead of a central intake flanked by two smaller ones, there are now two broad air ducts. The signature Panamericana grille remains unchanged.

From the side, the panels, diffuser, exhaust tips, and lighting currently mirror the production car, though later test cars may adopt updated headlights and taillamps with a star-inspired pattern. Inside, expect infotainment tweaks: refreshed software, possible revisions to the center console, and a new steering wheel. Subtle as they sound, such touches tend to keep the cabin feeling contemporary without changing the character.

The powertrain lineup—comprising a four-cylinder, two V8s, and the SL 63 S E Performance hybrid—will likely carry over with only minor adjustments. The current SL 63 uses a 4.0-liter V8 with 577 hp, does 0–97 km/h in 3.5 seconds, and tops out at 315 km/h. Keeping that muscle intact makes sense given how well it fits the SL’s brief.

For shoppers considering premium roadsters, the SL’s update is shaping up to be a meaningful waypoint ahead of the 2027 model year. The cleaner front-end treatment should sharpen its stance while the cabin and software refinements aim to keep the car feeling fresh without sacrificing its identity.