Today the official photos were revealed for the 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL63 AMG, which is confirmed to make its showroom debut in the first quarter of next year.

Based on the 2013 GL Class, the new GL63 AMG has the usual array of visual enhancements from the stylists at AMG.

As you can see the front bumper has a more aggressive look featuring enlarged air intakes and chrome detailing.

The GL63 AMG also features a set of 21″ rims with 295/40 tyres, V8 BITURBO badging and door sills that are illuminated with an aluminium finish. At the rear is four exhaust tips which are finished in chrome.

Now onto performance, a twin-turbocharged 5.5-litre V8 engine that produces 550bhp with 560lb-ft of torque, tuned by Affalterbach.

Mercedes-Benz claim that 0-60mph acceleration takes just 4.9 seconds which is very impressive for a vehicle of this size, it can also seat seven people.

Ensuring the vehicle remains planted, at high-speed, are a host of electronic systems which include AMG RIDE CONTROL sports suspension with AIRMATIC and ACTVE CURVE SYSTEM. The GL63 AMG also features air suspension, sports struts, an automatic e-level management system, active dampers and anti-roll bars at the front and rear.

The driver has full control over two suspension modes, “Comfort” and “Sport”. Also assisting the drivers handling is 4MATIC all-wheel drive, plus electronic traction and stability control.

Transmission is down to the all familiar AMG SPEEDSHIFT seven-speed automatic, which has three modes to choose from including “Sport”, “Manual” and “Controlled Effeciency”. The Controlled Efficiency mode helps to save fuel by taking advantage of the engine stop-start system, milder throttle and earlier shift times.

The standard brakes have ventilated and perforated discs at each corner, 15.4 x 1.4 inches at the front and 13.6 x 1.0 inches at the rear.

Inside features a stylish interior lined with leather trim on the seats and MB-Tex used on the dashboard, armrests and door trims. The steering wheel is an AMG design featuring four spokes and aluminium shift paddles.

Some of the other interior goodies include stainless steel pedals, AMG floor mats, parking assistance, Mercedes’ COMAND interface with Bluetooth and USB connectivity and tri-zone automatic climate control. Optional extras include a 360-degree camera monitoring system, lane keeping and blind spot assistance system, panoramic glass roof and a Bang & Olufsen premium sound system.

2013 Mercedes-Benz GL63 AMG Photos

Pricing and fuel economy details are expected to be announced closer to next year’s launch date.