2013 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class Priced at $105,550

When the redesigned-for-2013 Mercedes-Benz SL550 goes on sale in May, it will start at $105,550, excluding an $875 destination charge, about $2,000 more than the 2012 version.

Notable updates to the hardtop convertible include a body made almost exclusively out of aluminum, a new powertrain and more standard safety features, such as a drowsiness detection system and adaptive brakes.

The outgoing SL started at $103,650 and was powered by a 382-horsepower, 5.5-liter V-8. It's replaced by a 429-hp, twin-turbocharged 4.6-liter V-8 with standard stop/start functionality for added fuel savings.

The new engine offers 12% more horsepower and 23% more torque than the outgoing power plant, Mercedes says. The automaker also expects the new convertible to be more fuel efficient than the 2012 model, which is EPA-rated at 14/22 mpg city/ highway.