The New Mercedes ML 63 AMG: Strong and durable

THE NEW ML 63 AMG its unique charisma makes it clear that this model is a powerful symbol of compelling dynamic excellence. Even when it’s not in motion it still looks like it’s ready for action, in classic AMG style with its energetic and expressive radiance.
At cruising speeds, the mellow burble of the 5.5-liter V-8 is the only thing that hints at this SUV’s performance potential. Despite the two sound-killing turbos, AMG has managed to create a modern musclecar soundtrack that turns heads and molds grins on the faces of the most hardened L.A. commuters. The AMG Speedshift 7G-Tronic transmission has tall gearing and is always chasing the highest gear possible. It helps the new model achieve 28 percent greater efficiency over the past ML AMG, but it seems tragic that such a great engine will live most of its life below 2500 rpm. Cruising down PCH in Malibu, the high-tech lump trundles along at 1500 rpm without complaint. Prodding the throttle to shoot through openings in traffic results in a whistling warble from the turbo and a wave of torque as boost builds to 516 lb-ft. Performance Package-equipped cars twist out 561 lb-ft as low as 2000 rpm, making the 5200-pound SUV feel like point-and-shoot artillery.
While Comfort mode is preferable around town, Sport and Sport+ modes tighten things up and allow for faster reactions. To accomplish this complete manipulation of the ML63’s dynamics, AMG uses active damping control, active anti-roll bars, and airbags instead of coil springs. Sport mode is the best compromise for anything but the smoothest of roads. Directional changes happen fast and predictably on undulating switchbacks. The SUV never achieves the light, tossable feeling of a sports car, but rather beats physics into submission with big contact patches and intelligent suspension. In tight quarters, physics battles back, throwing hairpins and big braking areas at the heavyweight powerhouse. Even the best engineers haven›t mastered anti-mass technology, and all those pounds want to obey Newton›s First Law of Motion.
Mercedes boasts that the new ML 63 AMG is the most powerful SUV for sale today. In the same train of thought, he also says the AMG biturbo V-8 is among the cleanest engines for the power output. AMG is a test lab for new technology that will trickle down into lower segments at Mercedes. So while a 557-hp SUV may seem like overkill, let’s all remember it is paving the way to cleaner, more efficient versions of lower-spec Mercedes. That might be all the rationalization needed to buy one of these.