Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Black Series, SLS AMG GT, and GL63 AMG At The LA Auto Show

Mercedes-Benz’s showing at the 2012 LA Auto Show featured three new AMG vehicles. The big reveal was the new 2014 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Black Series. The Black Series is AMG’s line of hardcore performance vehicles, using technology from race cars. In the case of SLS AMG Black Series, AMG pulled some tech and ideas from the SLS GT3 race car. The 6.3L V8 sees a huge increase in power from 563 to 622 horsepower. Combined with the AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7 transmission, the SLS AMG Black Series can reach 60 MPH in 3.5 seconds and a top speed of 196 MPH. Other changes to the SLS AMG Black Series include a new suspension setup, ceramic two-piece brake system, lighter wheels, and a exterior design that takes cues from the SLS GT3 race car.

Next up is the 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT. The SLS AMG GT will take the place of the current SLS AMG. The SLS AMG GT brings forth a number of improvements that include a 20 horsepower increase (583 vs. 563), a reworked adaptive performance suspension, and new interior appointments. The run to 60 MPH takes about 3.6 seconds, a tenth faster than the outgoing model.

Finally there is the new Mercedes-Benz GL63 AMG. Taking the normal seven-seat GL, AMG drops in a 5.5L twin-turbo V8 producing 550 horsepower and 560 pound-feet of torque. That gives the AWD SUV a 0-60 time of 4.9 seconds and a top speed of 155 MPH (electronically limited). The powertrain features a stop/start system and a seven-speed automatic transmission. Outside, the GL63 AMG gets some visual changes including front air vents topped with LED running lamps and a set of 21-inch five-spoke wheels. Autobyel’s Editor-in-Chief, Michelle Naranjo chats with AMG Assistant Product Manager for Mercedes Benz William Vetter about the trio of AMG vehicles.