BMW Z4 and Porsche 718 Boxster finally have some competition! 2022 Mercedes-AMG SL 43 landing this year to try and snatch the sporty convertible crown

Mercedes-Benz has revealed the entry point to its new-generation SL model, the AMG SL 43, which eschews the twin-turbo petrol V8 of its upmarket siblings in favour of a 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine.

Due to land in Australian showrooms before year’s end, the SL 43 produces 280kW/480Nm from its four-cylinder engine, which not only outmuscles the 20i and 30i versions of BMW’s Z4 that produce 145kW/320Nm and 190kW/400Nm respectively, but is also a match for the top-spec M40i variant with 285kW/500Nm at its disposal.

Of note however, the BMW Z4 M40i produces that output with a 3.0-litre turbocharged six-cylinder engine, while the AMG SL 43 comes close with a smaller displacement engine and fewer cylinders.

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But the AMG has a few party tricks up its sleeve, with another 10kW available in short bursts thanks to its 48-volt belt-driven starter-generator, and an electric exhaust gas turbocharger that is designed to eliminate turbo lag and offer up instant throttle response.

With drive fed to the rear wheels via a nine-speed automatic transmission, the 2022 SL 43 will blitz the 0-100km/h acceleration run in just 4.9 seconds.

However, the 48-volt mild-hybrid tech can not only be used for extra performance, but also to increase efficiency, with the SL 43 returning between 8.9-9.4 liters per 100km.

Differentiating itself form its V8-powered siblings, the SL 43 sports unique front and rear bumpers and round exhaust outlets.

The 2+2 arrangement remains however, as does the new platform that allows for increased rear passenger space and torsional rigidity.

As with the SL 55 and SL 63, the SL 43 features a folding fabric roof that can be opened or closed at speeds of up to 60km/h in 15 seconds.

Inside, the SL 43 sports the latest MBUX multimedia system and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, while sports front seats, gloss-black highlights and heated steering wheel are also on offer.

Australian pricing and specs are yet to be revealed, but expect to see that information surface closer to the SL 43’s fourth quarter launch.