On top of the model changes, the automaker is also expanding the use of its mbrace telematics feature by making it standard on most models. The SL, in SL550 trim is already on sale, while the SL63 AMG hits showrooms in July and the SL65 AMG arrives in November. Also all-new this coming year is the GL Class SUV, which for the first time spawns a GL63 AMG model. The regular GL goes on sale in September while the AMG variant arrives in the first quarter of next year. Moving down the line we arrive at the GLK Class, which has received an extensive facelift that includes a new BlueTEC diesel option. This latest range of compact SUVs goes on sale in August. Another facelifted model is the G Class, which Mercedes-Benz is out to show is far from obsolescence. The legendary off-roader has received a very modern interior and its AMG option is back, this time with a G63 AMG badge. Both the regular version and new AMG model go on sale in August. Sadly, the U.S. misses out on the V-12 powered G65 AMG though considering its pricetag that may be a good thing. The last major update in 2013 from Mercedes-Benz is to the flagship SLS AMG supercar. It鈥檚 being replaced by a new SLS AMG GT, which offers more power and refined suspension. It goes on sale in November. Another model worth mentioning is the E400 Hybrid, which is a new addition for 2013. It goes on sale in October.

The latter helps save fuel by relying on an engine stop-start system, a decoupling feature for cruising, a milder throttle and early shift times. The standard brakes are ventilated and perforated discs at all four corners--15.4 x 1.4 inches (front) and 13.6 x 1.0 inches (rear). Open up the doors and you're treated with a plush interior lined with leather trim for the seats and MB-Tex used on the dashboard, armrests and door trim. The steering wheel is an AMG design that features four spokes as well as a flattened bottom and aluminum shift paddles. Standard goodies include stainless steel pedals, AMG floor mats, a parking assistant, Mercedes鈥?COMAND interface with Bluetooth and USB connectivity and tri-zone automatic climate control. Some optional extras worthy of mentioning include a 360-degree camera monitoring system, lane keeping and blind spot assist systems, a panoramic glass roof and a Bang it鈥檚 a twin-turbo, direct-injection 5.5-liter V-8 that, in the GL63, produces 550 hp and 560 lb-ft of torque. Mercedes says the luxury SUV can rush to 60 mph in just 4.9 seconds, and is electronically limited to 155 mph. This is the first time that the AMG team in Affalterbach, Germany, has altered a GL-Class model. Previously the fastest version was the GL550, which for the 2013 model year extracts 429 hp from a twin-turbo 4.7-liter V-8 and manages the 0-to-60-mph sprint in a claimed 5.5 seconds. The GL63 AMG has standard 4Matic all-wheel drive, and power is routed through a seven-speed automatic transmission that has three modes.