2013 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT gets more letters, power

Two additional letters will spell more power for the 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG.

The supercar will be named the SLS AMG GT for the next model year, which is meant to call attention to the light freshening that the glamorous two-seater will receive when it goes on sale in mid-November. Output grows to 583 hp from the naturally aspirated 6.2-liter V8, up from 563 hp in today's car. Torque remains at 479 lb-ft.

Mercedes also recalibrated the seven-speed dual-clutch transmission to make for quicker and more direct shifts in manual mode. The suspension gets recalibrated springs and dampers for a stiffer driving character.

The sprint to 60 mph is estimated to be a whisker faster (3.6 seconds vs. 3.7 seconds for the 2012 model). Top speed remains electronically limited to 197 mph.

The German luxury maker also added a new "designo style" package with different colors, elaborate upholstery and more leather pieces for the interior. Other options include carbon-fiber finishings inside and out, carbon-ceramic brakes and a surround-sound audio system from Bang & Olufsen.

Pricing was not announced. The SLS will continue to be offered in coupe and roadster models.

The supercar debuted at the 2009 Frankfurt motor show and arrived in the U.S. market in 2010. Viewed as the successor to the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren, the SLS was the first car developed entirely by AMG in its 40-year-plus history, and it served notice that the division would remain relevant after Mercedes split from its tie-up with McLaren.

By Greg Migliore