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The current ML 63 AMG is powered by a naturally aspirated 6.2-liter V8 engine delivering -in U.S. spec- 503HP at 6,800 rpm and a peak torque of 465 lb-ft at 5,200 rpm. Even thought the 63 badge will remain, as with other new AMG models, the flagship version of the next ML will ditch the 6.2-liter lump for the firm’s newly developed 5.5-liter twin-turbocharged V8 boasting direct-injection technology.
Vilner’s exterior modifications are rather subtle being limited to the new custom made headlamps housing LED lights and the replacement of all chrome plated elements with new black chrome parts, including the alloy wheels.
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The new ML could easily be mistaken for a facelift version of the current model as Mercedes-Benz’s styling approach follows an evolutionary path. A closer look reveals a slightly boxier shape with more sculpted lines and new details such as the longer tail lamps and a more angular grille up front.
The interior shots snagged by our scoop photographers show a completely redesigned dashboard with a prominent center console featuring new switchgear and a large LCD screen for the infotainment system.
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Looking to spice up your factory Mercedes-Benz ML 63 AMG? No problem, just as long as you're prepared to 'lighten' your bank account by €35,784 that comes to around US $53,200 at today's exchange rates. Because that's what VATH is asking for to turn the wick up on the ML 63 AMG. This will buy you the full range of upgrades that include engine and chassis modification as well as new alloy wheels and tires, and a couple of styling add-ons.
The stock ML 63 AMG comes with a 6.2-liter V8 engine produces an output of 510 horsepower and 630 Nm of peak torque. After VATH's extensive mods that include but are not limited to, larger intake and exhaust valves, sport camshaft, reprogrammed ECU and a custom made exhaust system, the V8 delivers 585HP and 690Nm or 508 lb-ft of torque. The engine tuning costs €17,850 plus €1,785 for the installation.
With this kit the ML 63 AMG is claimed to accelerate from zero to 100km/h (62mph) in 4.5 seconds (down from 5.0 sec) while the removal of the speed limiter allows the SUV to reach a top speed of 300 km/h or 187 mph.
An adjustable sport suspension (€1,952) based on Airmatic that can lower the SUV's ride height up to 40mm, a high-performance breaking system (€4,641) with 8-piston fix calipers and 380 mm break discs and 22-inch alloy wheels shod in 265/35 ZR 22 or 305/30 ZR 22 Dunlop tires (from €8,568) complete the list of performance mods.
The package is rounded off with a roof spoiler (€405) and new fog lights (€583) positioned behind the lower grille.
Mercedes-Benz will launch the new ML450 HYBRID onto the U.S. market on Monday, November 16 but with one catch: you won't be able to buy it. See, the German automaker is offering the hybrid SUV in the States as part of a special lease only option. Those interested can choose between a monthly lease price of $659 per month for 36 months or $549 per month for 60 months.Beneath the ML450 HYBRID's hood lurks a 3.5-liter Atkinson-cycle V6 gasoline engine that makes 275 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. It is combined with a pair of magneto-electric motors integrated within the modified automatic transmission, that produce 80HP and 192 lb.-ft of torque, and 83HP and 173 lb.-ft of torque.
Working with both electric motors when full power is needed, the ML450 HYBRID has a total system output of 335 horsepower and 381 lb.-ft. of torque. The SUV is claimed to accelerate from rest to 60 mph (96 km/h) in 7.8 sec and has a top speed of 131mph or 210 km/h.
Mercedes says that with a fuel economy of 21 miles per gallon around town and 24 mpg on the highway, the ML450's hybrid powertrain returns 46 percent better fuel economy than a comparable V8-powered ML550 model.
Still, that doesn't even come close to Lexus' RX450h Hybrid AWD that boasts an EPA-estimated 30mpg city and 28mpg highway. The Lexus is also faster in the 0-60mph sprint with a time of 7.4 seconds.
