Mercedes-AMG SL and GT Facelifts Caught Testing

AMG is testing updated versions of the SL Roadster (R232) and AMG GT Coupe (C192). These will likely arrive as 2027 model year cars. The mechanical parts will mostly stay the same, but the look will be refreshed.

Quick Overview

Feature	Mercedes-AMG SL Roadster	Mercedes-AMG GT Coupe
Model Code	R232	C192
Body Style	Convertible (Soft top)	Hardtop Coupe
Expected Arrival	2027 model year	2027 model year
Engine Options	2.0L I4, 4.0L V8, PHEV V8	4.0L V8
Top Power	Over 800 hp (PHEV)	~577 hp (GT 63)
New Headlights	Yes – “Starry” with three-pointed star DRLs	Yes
Grille	Larger Panamericana grille	Larger Panamericana grille

Exterior Styling Updates

Spy photos show camouflage on the front and rear of both cars. Here are the expected changes:

1. New “Starry” Headlights (Most Noticeable Change)

Old Headlights	New Headlights
Standard LED pattern	Three-pointed star daytime running lights (DRLs)

This new star-shaped light signature is being rolled out across modern Mercedes-Benz models. It makes the car instantly recognisable as a Mercedes even from far away.

2. Revised Front Bumper

What’s Changing	Details
Grille	Larger Panamericana grille
Air Intakes	Two wide air intakes on SL (replacing current central intake + side vent setup)

3. Rear Adjustments (Subtle)

• Reworked rear bumper
• Revised internal graphics for LED tail lights
• Overall changes are expected to be minor

Interior and Technology Updates

The cabins were seen under heavy wraps, meaning there will be some changes inside, too.

Expected Interior Updates:

Feature	Expected Change
Steering Wheel	New design
Trim & Upholstery	New options
Infotainment Software	Latest MBUX version with AI-powered features
Hyperscreen	Unlikely (too expensive for these models)

The current portrait-oriented infotainment screen will likely stay, but the software will be upgraded.

Powertrain (No Major Changes)

Mercedes is not expected to change the engines significantly.

Expected Engine Lineup (Same as current):

Model	Engine	Power
SL 43	2.0L turbo inline-4	~375 hp
SL / GT 55	4.0L twin-turbo V8	~469 hp
SL / GT 63	4.0L twin-turbo V8	~577 hp
SL 63 S E Performance (PHEV)	4.0L V8 + Electric motor	Over 800 hp

The PHEV version (plug-in hybrid) is the most powerful, delivering over 800 horsepower.

What is a “Facelift”?

A facelift is a mid-cycle update – usually happens 3-4 years after a car’s launch. It includes:

• New headlights and taillights
• Revised bumpers and grille
• Updated interior materials and software
• Minor mechanical tweaks (but no major engine changes)

The current SL and GT were launched in 2021-2022, so a 2027 facelift makes sense.

SL Roadster vs GT Coupe – Key Differences

Feature	SL Roadster	GT Coupe
Roof	Soft-top convertible	Fixed hardtop coupe
Seats	2+2 (small rear seats)	2 seats
V8 Engine	Yes (55, 63)	Yes (55, 63)
PHEV Version	Yes (SL 63 S E Performance)	No
Target Buyer	Open-top cruising, luxury GT	Hardcore performance, track use

SL Roadster: More for people who want to enjoy open-top driving with luxury and comfort.

GT Coupe: More for people who want pure performance and track capability.

Expected Launch Timeline

Event	Timing
Spotted testing	Now (April 2026)
Official reveal	Late 2026 or early 2027
Arrival as 2027 model year	2027