2013 Mercedes E63 AMG revealed

This is the new Mercedes E63 AMG, which completes the revised Mercedes E-Class line-up ahead of its unveiling at the 2013 Detroit motor show. It gets more power, new styling and a new S-Model variant.

The 2013 E63 AMG and E63 AMG S-Model both get the a similar makeover to the rest of the E-Class range, with new bumpers, restyled single-cluster headlights and a 'twin-blade' radiator grill for both saloon and estate versions. The rear remains largely unchanged, but there are revised LED tail lights, and chrome trim surrounding the four exhaust tailpipes.

In addition to the standard E63 AMG, S-Models come with red-painted carbon-ceramic brakes, black and chrome trim inserts, silver seatbelts and a flattened AMG steering wheel.

Both new E63 AMG models use a version of the previous model's 5.5-litre twin-turbo V8 petrol engine. Power output for the standard car has increased from 518bhp to 550bhp, while the S-Model develops 577bhp; 28bhp more than the previous model with optional AMG Performance package.

Mercedes quotes a 0-62mph time of 4.2 seconds for the standard car and 3.6 seconds for the S-Model. Top speed is electronically limited to 155mph.

Average fuel economy (for the standard model) remains the same as the outgoing version's 28.8mpg for the saloon and 28.3mpg for the estate.

The previous car's seven-speed automatic gearbox has been replaced by a new twin-clutch transmission that's already used in the CLS63 AMG. It includes a 'Race Start' launch control function that's designed to give maximum acceleration from standstill.

Although the 2013 E63 AMG is available with four-wheel drive in other markets, Mercedes has confirmed that UK cars will be rear-wheel-drive only.

The 2013 E63 AMG goes on sale in April, with S-Models available from June. Prices for both will be announced later this month.

Dan Alcock