Alienware M17xR3 exchange?

I was wondering if anyone knows if it is possible that I would be able to exchange my M17xR3 for the M18x. When i purchased my laptop I was told that it was going to be the most powerful laptop they would have for the next year. I'm very disappointed with my laptop because it seems to be failing now. I do 3d modeling and it seems like the m18x would be perfect for me seeing as I only have the 460m in my laptop right now. I would have no problem paying for the better hardware. Thanks in advance for anyone who can help answer my question.