Although it hasn’t undergone an independent crash test, the SL protects occupants well. There are head/thorax and driver and passenger airbags plus a pop-up roll-over protection should the worst happen. Just about every known electronic driver aid is fitted to help prevent the driver losing control.

The hard roof means little sacrifice is made for having a convertible and clever packaging has freed up more boot space when the roof is down. There are also some small storage compartments behind the seats. There are only two seats so practicality is still limited, and a few more modern rivals are able to offer more space.