This is the first vehicle in production to use an electric exhaust gas turbocharger.

Mercedes has just hours to release a teaser image and now offers a new entry-level version its elegant SL-Class Roadster. The Mercedes-AMG SL43 is half the engine of its siblings. It swaps a twin-turbocharged, V8 engine for a single-turbo four-cylinder. It’s not your typical four-pot, but it is an AMG product. It certainly does not have half the power.

This SL Class has a M139 turbocharged 2.0-liter four cylinder engine. Mercedes-Benz enthusiasts are familiar with the engine. However, the turbocharger is a single electrical exhaust gas turbine. This technology comes straight from the automaker’s Formula 1 efforts. It uses the same 48-volt electric system that powers its starter-generator. The turbo’s small electric motor spins the shaft until exhaust gases take control. Mercedes claims that the engine has a “particularly spontaneous throttle response across all rev ranges” and increases engine efficiency.

What does this mean for the driver? At 6,750 rpm, the SL43’s four cylinder produces 381 horsepower (284 kilowatts). You’ll get a solid 354 pound-feet of torque (480 Newton-meters) at 6,750 rpm. This is from a motor that revs at 3,250 rpm, and holds steady to 5000 revs. For short periods of time, the starter-generator can add 14 hp (10 kW), and technically, the SL43 is a mild hybrid. The familiar MCT nine-speed transmission handles shifting duties, sending power only to the rear wheels.

The SL43’s throttle will give you a Mercedes speedometer reading of 0-60 mph (0-100 km/h). This is in 4.9 seconds. The entry-level SL will hit 171 mph (275 km/h). Although it may not have the same turbos, cylinders and displacement as its muscular brothers, the SL43 will still reach 171 mph (275 km/h). Mercedes also wants to emphasize that the SL43’s smaller engine gives it its own handling characteristics. This trim has lighter torsion bars stabilizers.

The SL43 is identical to the rest of this lineup, according to casual observers. The SL43 has small differences in the vents at the lower front fascia and a smooth rear fascia that is devoid of vertical vents. A keen eye will also notice these changes. The SL43 can also swap square exhaust tips for oval finishesers. There’s even SL43 badge. Standard 19-inch wheels, 20-inch and 21 inch wheels available.

You’ll still be able to enjoy all the cool SL features found in the SL55 or SL63. This includes rear steering, multiple drive modes, AMG Dynamic Plus Package, as well as a luxurious interior with digital screens and the most recent MBUX system.

The Mercedes-AMG SL43 pricing and availability will be revealed closer to the start of production