2012 Mercedes-Benz ML 63 AMG: Smaller engine, but just as fun

As a devoted reader, you must surely remember that last summer, Mercedes-Benz introduced the all-new generation of its M-Class luxury SUV. Although it was initially only available with two engine options, the line-up is now complete with the arrival of the ML 550, featuring a V8 engine, and the ML 63 AMG, which is the most powerful – and most acclaimed – of the bunch. To begin with, Canada is a very lucrative market for AMG, Mercedes-Benz’s high-performance division. Naturally, you pay for the prestige associated with the emblem, but you also get a vehicle that can make a lot of sports cars blush.

More power, better fuel efficiency

In the last few years, fuel efficiency has become a major priority. With that in mind, the ML AMG has undergone the same treatment as most other Mercedes-Benz vehicles bearing the 63 AMG badge: the 503-hp 6.2-L naturally aspirated V8 has been replaced by a 5.5-L twin turbo V8. Is this a cause for an identity crisis? Strictly speaking, this engine swap should have resulted in the vehicle’s name changing to ML 55 AMG (to reflect the engine displacement). But marketing being what it is, they decided to stick with the old name, lest they damage the egos of new owners.

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Name issues aside, the new engine unleashes 518 horsepower – that’s 15 more than the old model. The vehicle’s weight-power ratio is also improved by the fact that the 2012 ML 63 AMG weighs 15 kg less than its predecessor. But this all starts to really make sense when you look at its fuel consumption. This new vehicle consumes 28% less gas, which should not only make owners happy, but it certainly gives the manufacturer something to boast about. The Stop/Start system (which cuts the engine when the vehicle is stopped) also helps cut fuel consumption.

Even more muscle

Before giving your heart away to the ML AMG, you should know that doing so will force you to decide between buying the base version (nothing to scoff at) or opting for the AMG Performance Package. This package increases turbocharger boost (1.3 bar instead of 1.0), adds 32 horsepower and brings the total torque up to 560 lbs.-ft. Regardless of the trim level you choose, the twin turbo V8 is paired with a 7G-Tronic SPEEDSHIFT PLUS AMG, which transfers power to all four wheels.

From the outside, it’s obvious that the AMG version has been enhanced with several prestige elements. The distinct front end includes black cross beams on the grille, while the rear section features a quadruple exhaust with “AMG” embossed on the tips. The vehicle’s sides are decked out with 21-inch, 5-spoke wheels, and the special AMG brakes are anything but conventional. How to tell if an ML 63 AMG has the Performance Package or not? Look for red brake calipers instead of the usual black ones. And if you’re thinking that the ML AMG seems bigger than a regular ML, you’re right. The wings are 10 mm wider to accommodate the oversize tires.

The inside has also been upgraded with special AMG additions. These include a perforated leather steering wheel cover, aluminum pedals and appliqués, and a sportier instrument cluster. Overall, there’s a good balance between sport and sophistication. The ML’s fit and finish is excellent, thanks to careful attention to detail. The sport seats offer decent lateral support and are comfortable, even on long trips. There is plenty of room for everyone’s heads and knees, and visibility is outstanding. Despite its modern style, there’s still a good amount of window space, which explains the visibility. Your kids will be pleased. 

On the road

Start up the ML 63 AMG and you’ll instantly get the sense that this is not just your average model. The old 6.2-L naturally aspirated engine didn’t offer nearly as rich of a sound as the new twin turbo V8. Its deafening purr makes up for a good portion of this vehicle’s added cost.

Press your foot into the accelerator and it becomes even more obvious that this is a special vehicle. With 560 lbs.-ft. of torque, it will literally nail you into your seat. With the AMG package, the vehicle can go from 0-100 km/hr in just 4.7 seconds – which is more than reasonable considering that it weighs 2,345 kg. Not too many vehicles can take you to the speed limit that fast, especially when you’ve got four passengers with you. But the ML’s performance capabilities don’t stop there. This vehicle hugs the road and its suspension keeps roll at bay. It goes without saying that the vehicle’s width and wide tires have a lot to do with it. We especially appreciated the Active Curve System, which includes dynamic antiroll bars on the front and rear axles. It compensates for body roll on corners and, as a result, the SUV sticks to the road better and behaves more like a car.

The brakes are just as effective. Ventilated discs in front and back allow for sudden braking, and they’re just as effective in sporty driving. This certainly makes you feel safer behind the wheel of the ML, as does the efficient AWD, which maximizes road grip in all conditions.

Obviously, the M-Class can be equipped with a wide range of security features. All the gadgets that once only outfitted Mercedes-Benz’s most expensive sedan, the S-Class, are now offered on the 2012 ML and AMG.

In short, the all-new ML 63 AMG has kept all the best of the old generation, but comes with an extra helping of everything else – except fuel consumption. It’s luxurious, spacious, and practical for the whole family, while offering an exceptional level of performance.