2011 L.A. Auto Show: 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML63 AMG

Just in case a 500-horsepower SUV with Abrams tank off-road ability and top-shelf ride comfort leaves you flat, Mercedes-Benz proposes a fresh fix. The 2012 ML63 AMG represents the third generation of high-performance SUVs from the Benz tuning house, offering more power and better fuel efficiency.

New for 2012 is a direct-injected 5.5-liter V8 twin turbo generating 518 hp and 516 pound-feet of torque, an increase of 15 hp and 44 lb-ft, respectively. Drivers in search of further thrills can opt for the available AMG Performance package, which boosts the V8 to 550 hp and 560 lb-ft. Regardless of output, the ML63 returns 16 mpg combined, a 33 percent improvement over its predecessor.

4MATIC all-wheel drive and a seven-speed transmission with rev-matched downshifts, aluminum paddle shifters and three drive modes (Normal, Sport and Manual) are standard, while a dedicated transfer case distributes engine power 40/60 front to rear.

Mercedes says the ML63 AMG makes the 0-60 run in 4.7 seconds, a full 2 seconds faster than the original 2000 ML55 AMG. Adding the AMG Performance package shaves a tenth of a second.

Enhancing ride quality is a standard air suspension with automatic leveling, adaptive damping and active roll stabilization. Twenty-inch wheels are standard, with optional AMG 21-inch dishes available. Bi-xenon adaptive headlights and signature AMG cues -- aggressive front fascia, rear skirt with black diffuser, quad exhaust, illuminated sill plates -- punctuate the exterior design.

Inside, a COMAND hard-drive navigation system features a 7-inch display and joins a Harman Kardon surround-sound audio system, while a suite of electronics aids -- including drowsy driver alert, pre-collision avoidance, blind-spot detection, lane departure warning, brake assist and parking assist -- help keep driver and ML in one piece.

The ML63 AMG will be available in the spring of 2012. Pricing has not been announced. 

Categories: LA Auto Show,Mercedes-Benz