Mercedes’ new fire-breathing, 510-hp ML 63 AMG super-ute will soon be prowling the pavement, looking to take the mantle of baddest ute on the block from the Cayennes and X5s of the world.
The ML 63, which is set to make its world premiere at next month’s the Frankfurt Motor show, will hit the streets sometime during the second quarter of 2006.
Power is supplied via an AMG-massaged, 6.3-litre V8 generating 510 hp at 6800 rpm and a maximum torque of 465 lb-ft 5200 rpm. Mercedes claims the engine as the world’s most powerful naturally aspirated production eight-cylinder.
Acceleration from 0 to 62 mph comes in 5.0 seconds with top speed limited to a maximum speed of 155 mph, according to Mercedes.
Power transfer in the ML 63 comes via an AMG version of Mercedes’ 7G-Tronic automatic transmission. Three shift modes – sport, comfort and manual – can be selected using a switch in the centre console.
Gears can also be selected using the gearshift buttons on the AMG sports steering wheel. Power distribution is 40:60 from front to rear, and the drive train has been strengthened to better handle the V8’s massive power.
The air suspension features AMG-specific damper struts and a specially configured adaptive damping system called ADS. A level control system automatically lowers the suspension at higher speeds.
The base tire and rim package features 19-inch, AMG five-spokes fitted with 295/45 R 19 rubber (a 20-inch package is optional). The upgraded disc brakes are internally ventilated and indented.
AMG styling touches include a revised front and rear apron, radiator grille, flared wings, stainless steel running boards with rubber studs and tinted rear lights. The sports exhaust system features two chrome-plated twin tail-pipes.
Various AMG touches also highlight the interior, including sports seats and steering wheel, door sills, stainless steel sports pedals and instrument cluster.
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