2012 Mercedes-Benz ML63 AMG introduced before L.A. Show

The third generation of the Mercedes-Benz ML63 AMG has been unveiled before the car’s official debut this week at the Los Angeles Auto Show. The first generation was introduced back in 1999 and since then the German automaker has managed to sell 24,000 units.

The latest iteration of the model is motivated by a new V8 bi-turbo 5.5-liter engine that generates 518 hp and 516 lb.-ft (700 Nm) for the U.S.-spec model, which is 15 hp and 44 lb.-ft more than the model it replaces. The SUV can be ordered with the optional AMG Performance Package that increases the power of the engine to an impressive 550 hp and a maximum torque of 560 lb.-ft (759 Nm).

According to Mercedes-Benz, the new ML63 AMG needs only 4.7 seconds in order to reach 62 mph from start, but if you order it with that Performance Package it will do it in 4.6 seconds. The top speed for the regular model is electronically limited to 155 mph, while the one with the optional package can reach a maximum speed of 174 mph. The estimated fuel consumption of the sporty SUV is 16 mpg (14.7 liters / 100 km or 19.2 mpg UK).

The new generation of the ML63 AMG features a permanent AWD system that distributes the power at a ratio of 40:60, and it is mated to a regular AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS seven-speed automatic gearbox that features three driving modes: C – Controlled Efficiency (improved fuel economy), S – Sport, and M – Manual. The German automaker mentioned that the car’s standard ECO stop/start function is active only when in C driving mode.

A novelty for the car would have to be that the AMG sports suspension with ARMATIC Air Suspension, automatic level control, independent damper struts and ADS – Adaptive Damping System is combined with the company’s proprietary ACTIVE CURVE SYSTEM that packs active stabilizers on both axles in order to compensate for body roll during cornering.

The stopping power is provided by the perforated and ventilated brake discs available on all corners, and the SUV also comes with an electromechanical AMG speed-sensitive sport steering that provides speed-based power assistance.

As far as the design is concerned, the 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML63 AMG comes with a new full bodykit that includes front + rear bumpers, wider front fenders, side skirts, bespoke quad tail pipes and a new design for the massive 20-inch rims that are covered by 265/45 R20 high performance tires. As an option, customers can choose the bigger 21-inch AMG alloys that are wrapped around in 295/35 R 21 tires.

Inside the cabin, the car comes with new sport seats covered in leather, a 4-spoke performance steering wheel, a bespoke instrument cluster that has a color TFT monitor, AMG main menu, AMG welcome logo, plus a bunch of aluminum trim accents.

The car is scheduled to hit U.S. dealerships in Q1 2012.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

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