The new AMG front apron with its high-gloss chrome underseal is a real eyecatcher. Thanks to the black central grille, the cooling-air intake appears even larger than it is. Newly designed headlights flank the new radiator grille, which is also unique to AMG models: painted high-gloss black, its three radiator fins are chrome plated. Round, widely set chrome-edged fog lamps and wheel arch extensions painted the same colour as the car give this top M-Class model an even wider and more powerful appearance.

Even more unmistakable, even more powerful: this philosophy is further embodied in the rear end. The high-gloss chrome plated underside cover on the AMG rear valance with integrated reflectors – also a new design – is a real highlight. The two chrome plated exhaust-pipe ends in the AMG sports exhaust system are an additional visual attraction. The shaded taillights, along with the optional Bi-Xenon headlights, have been replaced with rear lights featuring clear-lens design and LED technology. Newly designed exterior mirrors and the series production aluminium roof rails lend a finishing touch to the stylistic alterations.

Viewed from the side, the 20” AMG light alloy wheels are distinctive. High-sheen and painted titanium grey, the 10” rims are fitted with 295/40 R 20 tyres. As an optional extra, an even more impressive wheel/tyre combination is available: titanium grey high-sheen 21” AMG light alloy wheels with a double-spoke design, fitted with 295/35 R 21 tyres.

Taking a look at the premium-quality yet functional ML 63 AMG interior, the new AMG sports steering wheel is distinctive; the especially moulded grip area is covered with perforated leather, and both lower steering wheel spokes feature a silver insert. New AMG aluminium switching paddles enable manual gear changing. The ML 63 AMG standard equipment includes electric adjustable AMG sports seats with nappa leather upholstery, alcantara inserts in the shoulder zone, a multi-contour function and seat heating. The dashboard can also be clad in nappa leather on request. In truly dynamic style, the AMG instrument panel has original lettering, red dial needles and a speedometer that indicates up to 320 km/h. The integrated main menu, unique to AMG, permanently displays the currently selected gear and indicates when to change up, and, additionally, the display of the engine oil temperature, the battery voltage or the RACETIMER can also be selected.

The series production Audio 20 radio in the ML 63 AMG combines user-friendly operation and logical menu navigation with perfect entertainment. A hands-free car kit with Bluetooth is included as standard, and a new media interface with which to connect mobile audio devices, such as an iPod, to the audio system can be fitted in the glove box on request. With COMAND APS, also available on request, Mercedes customers can enjoy even more high-tech electronic equipment ex works. The device also includes a Europe-wide navigation system with data saved on a 40-GB hard drive, enabling extra fast route calculation. A music register with 4-GB memory is also included, as well as LINGUATRONIC voice control, which is known for its outstanding reliability.

Developing a maximum output of 375 kW/510 hp at 6,800 rpm, the ML 63 AMG is still one of the highest performing SUVs on the market, even two-and-a-half years after its market launch. With a 6,208-cc cubic capacity, the AMG 6.3-l V8 engine reaches a maximum torque of 630 newton metres at 5,200 rpm. The result: this superior engine delivers superb road performance. The ML 63 AMG accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.0 seconds, and has a top speed of 250 km/h (electronically limited). Power transmission is provided by the AMG SPEEDSHIFT 7G-TRONIC automatic gearbox with three drive programmes.

Brief summary of the most important facts and figures:

* Electronically limited

The permanent 4-wheel drive design is particularly sporty: for optimum agility, the power is distributed asymmetrically between the front and rear axle at a 40/60 percent ratio. The AMG sports suspension based on the AIRMATIC pack offers a high level of dynamic performance, at the same time as the long-distance comfort typical of Mercedes. The pneumatic suspension has unique AMG suspension struts as well as the specially calibrated adaptive damping system (ADS), including automatic all-round level control. Shock absorption and suspension are automatically adapted to the current driving situation with lighting speed – however, drivers can also switch manually between three levels at the touch of a button. The generously dimensioned AMG high-performance brake system containing fully vented and perforated brake discs allows for short braking distances and a high level of stability.

The sale price for the ML 63 AMG is 101,804.50 euros (incl. 19% VAT).