ONE NEW and one improved engine, a fresh look and a revised automatic transmission mark the 2008 Mercedes SL range upgrade. The large and graceful roadster has finally inherited the 6.2-litre for its top-shelf AMG SL63. This AMG-developed engine is a cracking powerplant, able to develop a whopping 385kW and 630Nm of torque. It is linked to a revised seven-speed automatic that now has an automated wet clutch to replace the torque converter, which allows for sportier changes. Mercedes has also improved the 3.5-litre V6 used in the SL350 base model, which now generates 232kW and 360Nm. Other changes include a new steering set-up, a revised active suspension system and more standard equipment across the range. Cosmetically, the most obvious changes are a new nose and tail treatment that harks back to the original Gullwing SL. Prices are up across the range, which starts with the $223,000 SL350 and runs through to the SL65 at $468,000.