EMMW Blog

Mercedes-Benz has unveiled the first AMG version on the new-for-2013 SL-Class. The 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL63 AMG features the new 5.5-liter twin-turbocharged V-8, which provides more power while consuming less fuel than the outgoing 6.2-liter unit. The new car will also weigh less than the outgoing car for better overall performance. As we first reported, Mercedes quietly stopped selling the V-12 SL-Class in 2011 and 2012, but we expect a new V-12 SL to reappear very early in the redesigned car?s life. Until that time, the SL550 and SL63 AMG will be the only options.

The new smaller V-8 has been steadily replacing the larger naturally aspirated unit in all the AMG vehicles. In its base form, it produces 530 hp and 590 lb-ft of torque, but opting for the optional AMG Performance Package will increase the output to 557 hp and 664 lb-ft. That?s 21 hp and 185 lb-ft of torque more than the flagship SLS Roadster!

Like the SLS, the new SL features a body formed mostly from aluminum. This makes the 2013 SL the first all-aluminum-bodied series-production model for Mercedes-Benz. It also keeps weight down to 4,059 pounds in the SL63. The weight reduction and increased power?s resulting zero-to-60-mph time of 4.2 seconds is 0.3 of a second faster than the 2012 model. Both cars feature top speeds limited to 155 mph regularly and 186 mph with the AMG Performance package.

Performance is also enhanced with an active suspension, speed-sensitive electric steering, and the seven-speed sports transmission. A newly developed brake system features 15.3-inch discs with six-piston fixed calipers at the front and 14.2- inch discs with single-piston floating calipers at the rear. Options include ceramic brakes (similar to the SLS AMG).

Following in the footsteps of the new-for-2012 SLK, the 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class will feature a new design inspired by the flagship SLS Roadster. The 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL550 Roadster continues to feature the long hood, compact setback passenger compartment, and wide rear fenders for which it is known but adds an upright grille with centrally positioned star recently reintroduced on the SLS. It is two-inches longer and 2.2-inches wider than its predecessor, providing more interior room for passenger comfort.

The new look and new engine coincide with the release of all-new features. Magic Vision Control is a wiper blade that dispenses wash fluid just ahead of the blade in both directions to keep the windshield clean. The wiper is heated to help prevent the buildup of snow and ice in winter. Mercedes says the heating function also allows warm water to be applied directly onto the windshield in cold temperatures. FrontBass is another new technology that takes advantage of resonating chambers in the aluminum structure to provide what Mercedes calls "concert hall ambience" even with the top down. The last new feature is the Hands-Free Access system, which provides hands-free operation of the trunk via a swipe of the driver?s foot below the rear bumper.

by Benjamin Greene

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