Mercedes has officially revealed their newest SUV rocket-ship, the new 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL 63 AMG, which happens to have seating for 7-passengers. The latest Benz to come out of the coveted AMG skunkworks division is powered by a 5.5-liter V8 Biturbo engine producing 550 horsepower and 560 ft-lbs. of torque. Power is directed to all four wheels through a full-time all-wheel-drive system and an AMG Speedshift 7-speed automatic transmission.

I can’t speak for every automotive enthusiast out there, but it gives me pleasure when I can tote my friends or family in a fast SUV. It is for those times that the mother-in-law starts to nag or the kids repeatedly ask the question “are we there yet”. I can simply return to my personal sanctum by firmly depressing the gas pedal instantly turning the family hauler into a road-going rollercoaster. The Mercedes-Benz GL 63 AMG happens to be the only full-size crossover SUV, seating 7-passengers, to offer such excitement for more than 5 people at a time.

The new 2013 Benz GL63 AMG will launch to 60mph in 4.9 seconds and top out at an electronically limited 155 mph. The GL63 AMG receives Ride Control suspension, the same Airmatic air suspension found on the other Benz vehicles, along with a more aggressive front fascia than that of the normal GL-Class, 21-inch wheels and V8 BITURBO badges on the side fenders.

Pricing for the GL63 AMG has not been released by Mercedes-Benz yet. As a comparison, the new ML63 AMG stickers for $95,865, meaning we should expect to see a solid 6-figure entry fee for the 2013 Benz GL63 AMG when it goes on sale in early 2013.