The sixth-generation Mercedes-Benz SL (R231) debuted in December 2011 and was manufactured between 2012 and 2020. The defining feature of the R231 was an all-aluminum spaceframe bodyshell (89% aluminum composition), which reduced overall vehicle weight by up to 140 kg while enhancing structural rigidity. Innovative features included Magic Vision Control windshield wipers with integrated washer channels and Magic Sky Control electrochromic glass roof tinting.

The lineup comprised the SL 400 (3.0L V6 biturbo), SL 500 (4.7L V8 biturbo delivering up to 455 hp), and high-performance AMG variants: the 5.5L biturbo V8 SL 63 AMG and the twin-turbo V12 SL 65 AMG. In 2016, a mid-cycle update introduced a redesigned nose inspired by the 300 SL Panamericana, standard 9G-Tronic automatics on non-AMG models, and Active Curve Tilting technology for the optional ABC suspension.