Mercedes E63 AMG (2013) first pictures leaked

This is the first image of the facelifted Mercedes E63 AMG super-saloon. Shown here leading the pack in a parade of tweaked E-classes, the E63 will be way out in front on performance too, with Audi RS-challenging all-wheel drive a possibility.

The facelift is about as in-yer-face as it gets in Stuttgart: there's a totally redesigned front bumper with a large aerodynamic wing, wrapping around gaping air intakes. The E63's face is altogether more rounded than that of the angular, four-eyed previous version. Tell us if you prefer the 2013 car in the comments below.

Under the bonnet, the new E63 AMG will stick to bi-turbo V8 power, which the pre-facelift car swapped to in 2011. Yes, we miss the thunderous 6.2-litre normally aspirated V8 too, but there's no arguing with the torque from the twin-blower mill, not to mention its superior economy.

Expect power in the new E63 to hover around the 550bhp/590lb ft mark, as per the current AMG Performance Pack version.

Word is the new 2013 model will offer all-wheel drive for the first time. Don't get too excited if you're a UK-based reader, though: like Jaguar and BMW, the all-paw systems will likely only see service in colder continental markets.

We'll have the full story on Merc's new super-saloon tomorrow morning, so stay tuned to CAR Online on Thursday 10 January to see if Mercedes can wrestle the four-door supercar crown from BMW's M5. Who's your money on?

By Ollie Kew