NEW YORK — The new 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG promises to be one of the sleekest, fastest cars ever built by Daimler. Are you surprised, then, that the Germans would cite the influence of "aviation engineering" in the design of the supercar's cockpit? The interior, but not the entire car, will be introduced at the 2009 New York Auto Show.
The spiritual successor to the Mercedes Gullwing isn't expected to break cover officially until the Frankfurt show this fall, and won't reach dealers until next spring. But the company is pulling back the covers on the interior of the "swing-wing" two-seater here at the New York show.
The aircraft-inspired touches are everywhere, according to Mercedes, from the solid-metal center console — meant to evoke the operating console of a jet — to the wing-shaped dashboard, which is finished in hand-stitched napa leather. Customers can also custom order carbon-fiber trim to further enhance the high-tech look.
A new E-Select shift lever controls the AMG Speedshift seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. Paddle shifters are also mounted behind the AMG Performance three-spoke steering wheel, which has a flattened bottom and is trimmed in leather. Mercedes uses the same hand-stitched designo leather on the sport seats, armrests and door panels.
The SLS boasts the usual array of high-tech goodies, notably Speedtronic adaptive cruise control, Parktronic parking assist and Thermotronic automatic climate control. Among the options are a Bang & Olufsen audio system, a media interface and an Interior Carbon package.
The two-seater also features a full complement of safety features, including eight airbags: two adaptive front bags, two knee bags, two window bags and two side bags integrated into the seats.
Inside Line says: The long striptease continues. — Paul Lienert, Correspondent
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