Merc's SL63 AMG gets 557bhp 07 | 03 | 2012

MERCEDES HAS REVEALED the final details of its new SL63 AMG: not only does it get a massive 557bhp, but fitted with the 'Performance Pack' it will scorch from standstill to 62mph in just 4.2secs, and on to an eye-watering 186mph (watch our video of the new Mercedes SLS AMG Roadster driven).

Unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show, it will go on sale in Scotland in June. Following on swiftly from the SL Roadster, which was announced in Los Angeles last November, the SL63 AMG has a lightweight all-aluminium body shell. It's also powered by Mercedes' latest twin-turbocharged 5.5-litre V8 engine.

See more official photos of the Mercedes SL63 AMG

While the 'standard' car is electronically limited to 155mph, both versions use a seven-speed AMG Speedshift sports transmission that has four modes to choose from: "C" (Controlled Efficiency), "S" (Sport), "S+" (Sport plus) and "M" (Manual).

As if that wasn't enough, the reworking of the ESP system now means it features three stages with the AMG 'Sport Handling' mode designed for particularly keen drivers.

And to ensure they can wring the maximum performance from the car, those 'keen drivers' can also also opt for the AMG rear axle differential lock and AMG performance suspension. Not surprisingly, both are both available as optional extras.

Oh, and the new SL63 AMG is 30% more fuel efficient than its predecessor, thanks to a combination of spray-guided direct petrol injection and alternator management, plus the inevitable stop-start.

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Jim McGill