Redesigned 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class Lands J.D. Power APEAL Award

Tiverton, 08/09/2013 / SubmitMyPR /

For the 2013 model year, Mercedes-Benz redesigned its Mercedes-Benz SL-Class luxury roadster to make it lighter, faster, more powerful, and even more fuel efficient. It appears that those significant changes are resonating strongly with buyers, as the 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class recently topped the Midsize Premium Sporty Car segment in the 2013 J.D. Power and Associates Automotive Performance, Execution and Layout (APEAL) Study.

Measuring how gratifying each model is to drive and own, the 2013 J.D. Power APEAL Study surveyed owners and lessees of 2013-model-year vehicles after 90 days of ownership to identify the things they like about their new rides. The study covered eight categories of performance and design, including engine and transmission; ride, handling and braking; styling and exterior; comfort and convenience; cockpit and instrument panel; heating, ventilation and cooling; seats; and sound system.

"It seems only fitting that the new Mercedes-Benz SL-Class should earn its J.D. Power APEAL award in the middle of summer, when its owners can drop the top and enjoy its gripping performance out in the open air," said Will Dame, general manager of Viti, Inc., a Mercedes-Benz dealer in Rhode Island. "With its increased power and faster acceleration, it's clear that the 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class is better on paper, but the APEAL Study shows that those improved specs are actually translating to a lot more enjoyment on the road."

The 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL550 received a new 4.6-liter biturbo V8 engine that yields 429 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque, increases of 47 horsepower and 125 pound-feet of torque compared to the previous generation's 5.5-liter V8. When that output combines with the automaker's first-ever use of an all-aluminum body in a production model, the lightweight SL550 is able to sprint from zero to 60 mph in just 4.5 seconds, which is 0.8 seconds faster \than its predecessor. Meanwhile, the convertible's 275-pound weight loss and its more efficient engine have resulted in a fuel-economy gain of three miles per gallon on the highway.

Mercedes-Benz also went to great lengths to improve the drop-top experience for Mercedes-Benz SL-Class owners. New Magic Vision Control technology ensures occupants aren't accidently sprayed by washer fluid when the top is down, as the sprayers are integrated into the windshield wiper blades so the fluid is only released directly in front of the blade's path. While a panorama roof is now standard as the retractable hardtop on the 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class, buyers can also opt for an electrochromic glass panel that can turn from dark to translucent with the touch of a button. Even in translucent mode, the special roof blocks out nearly all UV and infrared rays to keep passengers cooler inside.

"Mercedes-Benz has managed to introduce innovative technologies in the Mercedes-Benz SL-Class that are not only highly advanced, but also highly functional and user-friendly," Dame added. "J.D. Power put more emphasis on in-car technologies in its APEAL Study this year, and there is no doubt that the Mercedes-Benz SL-Class benefited from that change. The roadster's technology integrates perfectly into its overall vehicle design."

About Viti, Inc.:
Viti, Inc. has served Mercedes-Benz owners in New England for more than 40 years, specializing in new and used Mercedes-Benz sales, service and parts. Whether you’re looking for a new Mercedes-Benz C-Class or a pre-owned Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class SUV, Viti, Inc.’s friendly and knowledgeable sales staff will ensure that you get the right vehicle without the hassle. Plus, with 150 loaner cars and 50 drivers at their disposal, Viti, Inc. offers all of their customers free pick-up, delivery and loaners during servicing. Check out their full inventory online at www.viti.com, visit them in person at 975 Fish Road in Tiverton, or contact them by phone at 866-980-6224. They can also be found on Facebook at www.facebook.com/VitiMercedesBenz.