It is said to be an electric turbocharger.
Mercedes-AMG’s new SL was introduced in October 2013. It only featured the 55 and 63 versions of the V8-powered model. Mercedes-Benz Passion blog indicates that a “43” variant of the SL is on its way. It is said to bypass tailpipes and could share the plug-in hybrid model. Several prototypes of an electrified roadster with this configuration have been seen.
Although the decision to reduce the engine to such a small size will cause some concern among purists it is not the first time Mercedes has sold the Sport Leicht with a 4-pot engine. The 190 SL (W121), was a stunning 190. It featured a 1.9-liter engine that was adapted from the 300SL’s straight-six and had 120 horsepower.
The M254 engine is the subject of the German magazine. The 2.0-liter engine is used in the most recent C-Class, specifically C300 4Matic. The four-cylinder mill produces 255 horsepower and 295 lbft (400 Nm), with some temporary boost from the mild-hybrid configuration. It can go from 0 to 62 MPH (100 km/h), in just six seconds, and tops out at 150 MPH (241 km/h).
These numbers are good for a non-AMG C-Class. However, people expect more from the SL. Mercedes will meet those expectations with an electric turbocharger derived from the AMG GT 63S E Performance. A e-turbo for the AMG One hypercar is being developed, as well as the C63 four-cylinder C63. Both will be available later in 2022.
The M254 is reportedly more powerful than the C-Class’s version. It will produce 385 horsepower, which is 130 more than the four-cylinder version. However, it wouldn’t be the most powerful four-cylinder engine in the company’s history. The AMG and the coming C63 plug-in hybrid deliver a staggering 416 horsepower.
The e-turbo was developed with Garrett. It will produce more power at lower rpms and virtually eliminate turbo lag. The next Mercedes-AMG GT Coupe will also get a four-cylinder engine paired with the latest SL. The first roadster is expected to be released in Germany as soon as next month.
The AMG has the same setup.