It is no big secret that both, the Mercedes SL and SLK, are going to get a restyling due for launch in 2008. Previous prototype shots showed cars with a lot of disguise or buried in snow.
Here now are photos showing both as convertibles with their tops down. A test crew was caught while taking a leisurely stroll through a sunny landscape in the south of Europe, but the top of the line SL 600 on the contrary was caught red handed on a film set for a commercial in the middle of the Italian town of Siena. Here the film crew was trying desperately to hide the secret car from curious photographers by using a large canvas cloth thrown over the yet to be revealed parts of the car.
As for the SL, the biggest change will be the CLS-style headlamps together with a new bumper and grille. Camouflage at the rear lights is hiding a new shape and LEDs. Another feature that will come for the facelifted SL is the air scarfs in the headrests known from the SLK.
Engines are likely to remain the same as in the current model, but rumours are talking about a turbocharged version of the 350 engine with 354 bhp. Top of the line will be the known SL65 AMG with 612 bhp.
Looking at the SLK, quite clearly the Formula 1 influence will survive the upcoming facelift. The front bumper will get a new shape with some triangular bars beneath the nose to imitate the Silver Arrows, and bigger headlights and taillights.
The current SLK interior is starting to show its age, so the new version will get an updated interior to match the fresher looking outside. Engines will remain the known versions, but the 350 CGI with 292 bhp, known from the CLS might find its way into the SLK.
Rumours are also talking about a diesel version of the SLK, which will be important for the European market. We will have to wait for next year to see the results and then we know if the diesel fans get their piece of roadster fun.
The photos are showing:
2 x Mercedes SL prototype
2 x Mercedes SL 600 during filming of a commercial
2 x Mercedes SLK prototype
1 x test group with convertible prototypes
Facelifted Mercedes SL and SLK caught topless in Italy Picture Gallery
