Mercedes unveils 2013 SL63 AMG

Mercedes-Benz used Tuesday’s Formula One test at the Barcelona circuit in Spain to also unveil its latest road-going performance car, the SL63 AMG.

Set to go on sale in North America in July, the two-seat roadster was revealed by the Mercedes AMG Petronas drivers, Michael Schumacher and Nico Rosberg, fresh from unveiling their team’s new F1 car, the MGP W03.

The new 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL63 AMG should begin reaching U.S. dealers in mid-July, about two months or so after the 2013 SL550.

The 2013 SL63 AMG is based on the redesigned SL, with the usual performance and cosmetic upgrades.

The AMG edition will offer buyers a choice of two output levels. The standard AMG-tuned twin-turbocharged 5.5-liter direct-injection V8 is rated at 530 horsepower and 590 pound-feet of torque. Driving the rear wheels through an AMG Speedshift MCT seven-speed sports transmission, the engine delivers 0-60 acceleration in 4.2 seconds, with top speed electronically limited to 155 miles per hour according to Mercedes-Benz.

The optional AMG Performance Package kicks up output to 557 hp and torque to 664 lb-ft, while trimming 0.1 second from the 0-60 time. Top speed rises to 186 mph.

AMG has trimmed 275 pounds from the car, which enables the standard twin-turbo V8 to return 30-percent better fuel economy — 24 miles per gallon on the combined European driving cycle.

But the focus remains on performance, with such standard features as AMG active suspension, AMG speed-sensitive sports steering, AMG high-performance compound brake system, AMG sports exhaust system and AMG alloy rims with 255/35R19 front and 285/30R19 rear tires.

Options include an AMG performance suspension, AMG rear axle differential lock, ceramic high-performance compound brakes with red-painted calipers, multispoke AMG forged wheels (available in matte black) with 255/35R19 front and 285/30R20 rear tires, and an AMG performance steering wheel.

The SL63 AMG gets a unique front apron with a large airdam, an AMG radiator grille, LED daytime running lights, side sills, rear lip spoiler, diffuser-style rear apron and chromed twin tailpipes.

The interior features AMG sport seats in single- or two-tone nappa leather, an AMG instrument cluster, carbon-fiber trim, illuminated sills, ambient lighting and an IWC analog clock.

Among the extra-cost equipment: Active Parking Assist, Airscarf heating, Bang & Olufsen BeoSound audio, Driving Assistance package, keyless go and climate seats.