2012 Mercedes-Benz ML63 AMG unveiled ahead of LA

The 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML63 AMG will be making its public debut later this week at the 2011 LA Auto Show but the Stuttgart automaker has just released all the images and details of the new SUV.

“Like its predecessors, the 2012 ML63 AMG sets new standards in terms of performance, exclusivity and an outstanding driving experience – plus the efficiency factor, which is acquiring ever greater emphasis at Mercedes-AMG,” said Ola Kallenius, Chairman of Mercedes-AMG GmbH. “As the inventor of the high-performance SUV, we remain true to the philosophy which we introduced in 1999 with the 2000MY ML55 AMG and continued with the 2007MY ML63 AMG.”

So let’s get right down to the fun stuff. Power for the 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML63 AMG comes from a 5.5 liter V8 biturbo engine making 518-hp at 5,250 rpm with a maximum torque of 516 lb-ft between 1,750 – 5,000 rpm. That allows 0 to 60 mph to come in 4.7 seconds with a top speed of 155 mph. Buyers can add the AMG Performance Package, which increases output to 550-hp at 5,750 rpm and 560 lb-ft between 2,000 and 5,000 rpm. The package allows a 0 to 60 mph of 4.6 seconds with a top speed of 174 mph. The AMG Performance Package also adds an engine cover genuine carbon fiber, calipers painted in red and the AMG Performance steering wheel in Premium leather/DINAMICA.

The engine is mated to a AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7-speed automatic transmission with engine deactivation through one of the three driving programs. In ‘Controlled Efficiency mode (C) the ECO stop/start function activates and shuts down the big V8 when the vehicle is at a stand still. Other driver programs include Sport (S) and Manual (M).

The 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML63 AMG, which is 99 pounds lighter than its predecessor, also gets something called the ACTIVE CURVE SYSTEM for active roll stabilization. The system is standard and features active stabilizers on the front and rear axles to make-up for body roll during rough cornering.

On the inside, the new ML63 AMG comes standard with basically everything including AMG exclusive illuminated door sills, AMG sports pedals in brushed stainless steel with rubber studs, COMAND system with hard-drive navigation & SIRIUS real-time traffic & weather, 10-way power front seats w/door-mounted controls plus driver and passenger memory with 4-way lumbar support, Harman/Kardon Logic 7 surround sound system, HD radio, Bluetooth audio streaming, 7 inch display with central COMAND controller, 4.5″ color instrument cluster display, power lift gate, power sunroof and heated & active ventilated front seats

The 2012 Mercedes ML63 AMG will hit U.S. showrooms in the first quarter of 2012.

2012 Mercedes-Benz ML63 AMG Data:

ML63 AMG
Displacement 5461 cc
Bore x stroke 3.86″ x 3.56″
Compression ratio 10.0 : 1
Output 518 hp at 5,250 rpm 550 hp at 5,750/rpm*
Max torque 516 lb-ft at 1,750-5,000 rpm 560 lb-ft at 2,000-5,000 rpm*
Engine weight (dry) 449 lbs
Estimated fuel economy 16 mpg combined
Acceleration 0-60 mph 4.7 s 4.6 s*
Top speed 155 mph** 174 mph*

– By: Omar Rana