Actually, you can put flexible luggage or even a pair of suitcases behind the seats and safely secure them. When the roof is down, the trunk accommodates two or three small suitcases, like the ones you carry with you on a plane. With the roof up, however, expect to be able to bring two medium-size suitcases. The power trunk opening/closing system with cargo cover is user-friendly and perfectly synchronized. I found it equally ingenious as the power retractable top, which only takes 16 seconds to complete a maneuver.

One of the most generous trunks in the category.

Focus on ergonomics
The fully redesigned cockpit greets the driver with all the comfort you would rightfully expect. The dashboard is easy to grasp at a glance and the controls are quite intuitive. Sure, there are plenty of them and you have to get used to how they work, but I still found them easier to use than in previous models. Clearly, the focus of Mercedes has shifted from pure technology to user ergonomics. The COMAND system for the navigation, radio and phone has been cleverly revised and simplified. It includes such state-of-the-art equipment as advanced navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, iPod jack, USB port, MP3 playback and a new HD display.

On the road
The SL-Class is a grand tourer in every sense of the word. Comfort is a top priority, but driving dynamics are never compromised. Handling is surprisingly good considering the weight of these cars. Both models excel in sharp corners and tortuous mountain roads. The Sport mode is great to improve traction; yet, comfort is not affected that much. The passenger, especially, will feel less tossed around.

The 517 horsepower and gobs of torque generated by the 12-cylinder engine of the SL600 are more than up to the task. Although I was a bit surprised to find the same old 5-speed automatic transmission, I quickly realized that it still delivers the goods, particularly in terms of smoothness and efficiency. I loved to perform manual gear changes by using the paddle shifters on the steering wheel (standard fare).

As for the SL550, the V8 is obviously powerful, but the impressive 7-speed transmission proves to be an excellent teammate and makes sporty driving easier. Both cars are also very rewarding on boulevards.

The V12's 517 horsepower and gobs of torque are more than up to the task.