Mercedes launches upmarket soft-roader

AMG-badged V8-powered RAV4-alike for 2006

By PH Staff / Thursday, 18 August 2005 / Loading comments

Mercedes is claiming to "set a new standard in the sporty off-roader segment" with its new ML 63 AMG, which looks to compete with the Porsche Cayenne.

The top-of-the-range M-Class model with permanent 4WD includes an AMG 6.3-litre V8 and will premiere at the International Motor Show in Frankfurt next month. You'll be able to buy one here in summer 2006.

The AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine generates 510bhp at 6,800 rpm and a maximum torque of 465lb-ft at 5,200rpm. Mercedes calls it the world’s most powerful, naturally aspirated eight-cylinder engine in regular production.

Whether you like the packaging or not, it's not going to be slow. It will accelerate from zero to 62.5 mph in 5 seconds and a maximum, electronically limited speed of 155 mph. That's 46 per cent more output and 23 per cent more torque than the ML 55 AMG.

Power goes through an AMG Speedshift 7G-Tronic (seven-speed) automatic transmission with a direct select shift lever mounted by the steering wheel. You get three shift modes: "S" (Sport), "C" (Comfort) and "M" (Manual), which are selected using a switch in the centre console and change gearshift characteristics and speed. Power is distributed to the front and rear axles on a 40:60 basis.

Suspension and brakes

The AMG air suspension features AMG-specific dampers and a specially configured adaptive damping system with a height control system that automatically lowers the vehicle at higher speeds.

Road contact is via high-sheen 19-inch AMG light-alloy wheels in a five-spoke design, fitted with 295/45 R 19 tyres all-round. Twenty-inch wheels in a five-spoke design are an option. The braking system features internally ventilated and indented brake discs all-round.

Interior

As for the looks, you can judge for yourself, but the interior includes sports seats with Nappa leather upholstery, Alcantara inserts in the shoulder areas and multi-contour heated seats. Also included is the AMG leather steering wheel with gearshift buttons, door sills and stainless steel sports pedals with rubber studs. The instrument cluster includes AMG-specific lettering, red needles and 200 mph speedometer scale.

Standard safety features include the preventive occupant protection system Pre-safe, crash-responsive Neck-pro head restraints in the first seat row, adaptive, two-stage airbags for the driver and front passenger, front sidebags, windowbags and belt tensioners and belt force limiters for all the seats.

Pricing and specification will be announced closer to the launch date. Mercedes also didn't say if it went round corners...