A decade-and-some later, Mercedes may finally introduce a version of this SLA concept roadster.
Better late than never, apparently. More than a decade after showing off its Vision SLA, a concept for a Miata-sized luxury roadster, Mercedes-Benz appears to be ready to bring it to market.
Industry sources indicate the soft-top would not only be the smallest 2-seater in the tri-star line-up but would also be the first to drive the front wheels when it comes to market, apparently as early as next year, if industry scuttlebutt proves accurate.
That fits with comments made by Mercedes’ U.S. CEO Ernst Lieb, earlier this year, following the unveiling of the latest A-Class concept vehicle at the New York Auto Show. At the time, Lieb not only confirmed a version of the A-Class will come to the States but hinted that Mercedes would probably have as many as four distinct body styles based on the new platform.
The smallest offering in the Mercedes line-up would go up against the likes of the Miata, or in the luxury segment, the Audi TT and the 1-Series roadster reportedly being developed by BMW.
The Mercedes-Benz A-Class Concept is likely to spawn as many as four different body styles, including the SLA roadster.
Sources indicate Mercedes would power the production SLA with with either a 1.6-liter turbo four or a 1.8-liter turbo-diesel for the European market. The new offering would not only target buyers younger than those opting for the current tri-star roadsters, the SLK and the top-line SL, but also those demanding better mileage.
That’s a major challenge for the German luxury maker as the 2016 U.S. target of 37.5 mpg fast approaches. Europe has even tougher mileage standards coming into play.
According to sources including GoAuto and the Australian Drive.com, the SLA would offer a choice of a 7-speed DSG or 6-speed manual.
As you might expect, sources indicate an AMG edition would follow using a “twin-charged” I-4, which may indicate an unusual turbocharged/supercharged package.