The 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL will be introduced in 2011 in the US as an all new light-weight roadster model that should be even better to drive than the current vehicle. The new Mercedes-Benz vehicle is scheduled to be unveiled at the 2009 Frankfurt Auto Show, and it should be very good competition in its segment for the BMW’s rumored 1 Series-based roadster which is also due out in 2011.

Mercedes has decided to introduce a new aluminum construction technique on the new SLS vehicle and this new construction will be also included in the 2012 SL. North American sales of the SLS will start in 2010 as a 2011 model year vehicle. The 2011 SLS will be the first stand-alone production model to be designed and developed completely by Merecedes-Benz’s AMG division.

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The new aluminum construction will allow the next-generation SLS and SL to be lower in overall weight and to have sportier driving dynamics and handling that should impress customers. The aluminum body structure weights 531 pounds and will be made out of a combination of forged, cast, and sheet aluminum.

The Mercedes-Benz SL has been manufactured by Mercedes since 1954. The SL badge comes from the German words Sport Leicht which means Sport Light. The SL550 and SL600’s engines have remained unchanged for 2009 for the US. The SL550 has a 5.5L V8 engine that produces 382 horsepower, and the SL600 has a twin-turbo V12 engine that produces 517 horsepower. Until 2012, SL customers will have to be happy with the refreshed version of the fourth-generation SL. This generation of the two-seater sports car that was originally introduced five years ago. It is not clear yet which engine options will be available in the 2012 SL.

The 2012 should bring back memories for enthusiasts of the original model which was considered sporty and lightweight. Mercedes has been working on this roadster for a long time. The smaller and lighter 2012 model was originally unveiled as a concept vehicle in 2000. Mercedes has finally chosen to introduce the model in response to growing demand for smaller, more fuel efficient vehicles.

The 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL should be available just in time to complete with BMW’s rumored 1 Series-based roadster. By having a lower weight than the current generation, it should provide customers with improved driving characteristics.

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