Mercedes-Benz is launching a revitalised three way attack on the luxury sector with its latest generation SL, SLK and CLS models going on sale this week.

Each new model has been given updated nose and tail treatment, new fascia and instrument displays, equipment upgrades and notable in-car infotainment enhancements which add up to more than the slight price increases. There are also new options to be specified.

The latest SL-Class follows the launch of the car in 2002 and its revision in 2006, since when the best selling year was 2003 and 2,666 cars were registered compared to just 986 last year.
Seventy percent of orders specified the SL 350 and 22pc were SL500 models.
For the new series (left), MB has adopted a single louvred wider grille, new bumper and lights with distinctive powerdomes on the bonnet and the rear view incorporates a diffuser in the bumper and modified exhaust pipes.
From the side the SL now has a more pronounced side fin behind the front wheel arch and LED repeaters built into the latest door mirror design.
Inside the main changes are fitting a three-spoke wheel, new instruments and info computer head design, revised climate control, new seats and upholstery options. The range-topping V12 SL models have unique wheels, rear pipes, trim and badging.
Buyers of the new SL can also choose to have an airscarf, direct steering, intelligent lights, media interface and DAB radio.

The highly popular Sports pack ordered by most buyers includes 7G-Tronic sequential box, 19-inch five-twinspoke alloys, drilled discs with painted callipers, tinted lights and tuned air filter for a sharper engine note.
For the 525hp AMG 6.3 V8 with MCT 7-speed sport transmission there is now a three stage electronic stability programme and race start for optimum dynamic handling and track days.
An aluminium bonnet is fitted to this and the 612hp AMG 65V12, which continues and get a unique diamond pattern seats and door casings. Inside the latest three-spoke wheel comes with the new instrument layout.
MB has fitted the latest 350 engine in the SL, which raises output 43hp to 315hp but cuts CO2 to 236gkm and the second most popular 500 has the same power as before, 388hp, but it’s slightly cleaner at 284gkm and fuel economy is marginally better on both.
Although the SL series has improved powertrains, bi-xenon lights, telematics and cosmetic improvements, the price lists are up by an average of only 1.8pc. The SL350 is £65,080, the SL500 £77,785, SL600 £104,525, SL63AMG £102,075 and SL65AMG is £154,375.

On the road the SL 350 and 63AMG provide exceptional refinement and sophistication, delivering enormous power in a very controlled, civilised manner while providing remarkable comfort for a sharply responding chassis. Visually, the new wheel and fascia are eye-catching while the selectable ESP on the AMG provides eye-popping responses.

In the SLK series the new version felt tauter than the previous generation but did not compromise comfort. It is a very “soft” sports car with forgiving handling but press on and it sticks to the road in a reassuring manner, delivering smooth gearchanges and confidence inspiring brakes and steering.

The sweeping roofline to the CLS marginally affects headroom in the back but it remains a very roomy car for those with long legs, whether in the rear or front, and this undoubtedly helps maintain popularity as a coupe. Striking and imposing from any angle, it does not feel particularly big behind the wheel and its agility is a surprise to some. Impressed as I was by the 320CDI, the new 350CGI is remarkably quiet and composed, smooth and sophisticated and I think a better model by a considerable margin.