The new Sigma 17-70mm f/2.8-4 DC Macro HSM lens rumored to be released next month

The new Sigma 17-70mm f/2.8-4 DC Macro HSM lens (pictured on the left) is expected to be released in late January 2013 (probably during the CP+ show in Japan). The new lens will have an improved optical design and it will be 9mm shorter and  70g lighter then the current version (pictured on the right):

• 16 elements in 14 groups, 2 FLD, 1 SLD elements, 3 aspherical surfaces
• Minimum focusing distance: 22cm
• Maximum magnification ratio: 1:2.8
• Four stops OS
• Filter thread: 72mm
• Lens dimensions: 82mm length, 79mm diameter
• Weight: 465g
• Expected price: around ¥45,000, around $500 (the old Nikon version is currently on sale for $299)

One of the old Sigma 17-70mm f/2.8-4 variations is already listed as discontinued at B&H.

Via digicame-info