To keep customers happy, most new models upstage the car they replace in terms of performance and engine output. However, we're used to 5, maybe 10% improvement. What you see before you is the new Mercedes-Benz ML 63 AMG, with a whopping 46% more power than the ML 55 AMG it replaces. This preposterous SUV makes its debut at this year's
Frankfurt Motor Show and goes on sale in the UK next summer.
The heart of the new range-topping M-class is a new 6.3-litre V8 engine. Mercedes-Benz claims that it is the most powerful naturally aspirated V8 unit in production, with peak power of 510bhp at a heady 6,800rpm and peak torque of 465lb.ft at 5,200rpm. Performance should be more than adequate, despite the ML's heavyweight body. The figures provided by Mercedes-Benz post the 0-62mph time at 5 seconds, and as with all Mercs, the top speed is limited to 155mph.
Other mechanical changes include changes to the 7-speed automatic gearbox by AMG, as well as bespoke dampers and settings on the 'Airmatic' adaptive damping system. As you'd hope, the brakes are suitably chunky ventilated discs all-round, hiding behind 19-inch 5-spoke alloys. Merc dealers will 'bling' the ML up a little for you with 20-inch items, though no doubt the aftermarket suppliers already have larger more brash wheels in mind to go along with the suitably over the top body kit that is standard on the ML 63 AMG.
Inside, the new M-class gets a myriad of AMG-designed items, including leather sports seats (heated and with Alcantara inserts), a leather sports steering wheel with gearshift buttons, and AMG door sills and pedals. Given the top speed limitation, it seems pretty pointless that the speedo is graduated all the way to 200mph. Kind of sums this car up really... Prices have yet to be announced.
Shane O' Donoghue - 20 Aug 2005