Mercedes-Benz ML63 Reviews

Imagine this: a 2.4-tonne SUV that can match a Porsche 911 to 100km/h. Well, a Mercedes-Benz ML 63 AMG will blast its way to 100km/h in 4.8 seconds and top out at 250km/h, limited by electronic interference.That's the same as a BMW M3 and a Porsche 911. It'll show a clean pair of heels to the best from HSV and FPV, not to mention a Subaru WRX STi or a Mitsubishi Lancer Evo. It's quite incredible to think that this so-called family-friendly vehicle is really a wicked wolf in disguise.So why? Why not? The ML 63 AMG is the pinnacle of the ML Class range, one which sits third on the sales charts behind the BMW X5 and the Land Rover Discovery. The 2012 facelift model should renew interest in the brand with all the improvements, particularly the fantastic new instrument panel and dashboard.VALUEThe embarrassment it can cause at the traffic light grand prix is humiliating. Goodbye HSV GTS, Falcon GT-P, STi and Evo. You pay for the privilege, a whopping $190K, but the joy of dragging off sports coupes and high-performance V8 sedans is priceless.It is expensive but consider this. The same engine in an E Class AMG sedan is $62,000 more and in the CLS, $80,000 extra.Standard equipment includes parking sensors and rear camera, satellite-navigation, traction control, acceleration skid control, hill start assistance, anti-lock braking system (ABS), radar cruise control, start/stop function, automatic electric parking brake and Electronic Stability Program (ESP). Airbags include full-length windowbags, drive's knee bag, front and rear side bags.There's also automatic climate control airconditioning, AMG door sills in stainless steel, AMG floor mats, AMG sports pedals in brushed stainless steel with rubber studs, a premium sound system with Bluetooth and USB interface, a tyre pressure monitoring system, headlamp cleaners, an electric sliding glass roof, heated front seats for driver and front passenger, blind-spot alert system and a lane-keeping system.TECHNOLOGYAmazingly, Benz says the ML 63 AMG is not only an autobahn stormer, but is relatively fuel efficient too. It says it uses 11.8 litres of fuel per 100km, undercutting the previous model by an impressive 28 per cent.Unfortunately I was unable to get anywhere near that. I started about 23 litres/100km and managed to bring that down to 18.1 litres over a 280km drive which included a spirited run up the Gillies Range, across Springmount Rd to Dimbulah and the Bourke Development Rd to Dimbulah and back to Cairns.The company says the AMG 5.5-litre V8 5 engine with a maximum power output of 386kW and a peak torque of 700Nm, represents an increase of 11kW and 70Nm over the previous model. If you must, an optional AMG performance package boosts the V8 engine's power output to 410kW and its maximum torque to 760Nm.Power is transmitted to all four permanently driven wheels by an AMG Speedshift Plus seven-speed transmission featuring three modes and an automatic double-declutching function for downshifting. The radiator grille with louvres painted in high-gloss black and the large Mercedes star is a large cooling air intake.DESIGNThe ML 63 AMG is an intimidating-looking beast, particularly from its brutal front, lowered suspension, large alloys and dark grey paintwork of the test vehicle.Together with the two outer air intakes, the central radiator grille provides for an effective flow of air to the water, engine oil, charge-air and transmission oil coolers. Fitted at the bottom of the AMG front apron is a trim strip in matt silver chrome, which lends the front a wider appearance with the surrounds of the daytime running lamps in the side cooling air intakes.The interior has electrically adjustable AMG sports seats with great lateral support as well as the four-spoke AMG performance steering wheel. Aluminium trim and the piano-lacquer retractable cover in the centre console highlight the interior's flair. The standard leather upholstery includes contrasting double topstitching and AMG badges in the backrests of the front seats and the outer rear seats. DRIVINGThe beast is docile around town and is easy to drive and park, a surprise package on the school run.Tickle the accelerator, there's a split second pause and then it will raise its head and storm down the road with astonishing force. The noise is incredible, this is thunder down under. There's a launch system which enables you to hold the vehicle with the brake while burying the accelerator to the floor.After lifting off the brake the SUV takes off like a creature possessed, arriving at 100km/h in less than 5 seconds. It's quite a feat. The gear lever is a simple wand to the right of the steering column with just drive, reverse and park.Paddle shifts behind the wheel allow manual changes. In the centre console are settings to allow manual changes, Economy mode and Sport drive, and also Comfort settings, Sport and Sport Plus. The latter enhances the gear changes and the engine's performance for ultimate go.Around town and on the open road Comfort is best to absorb our mediocre road surfaces. Sport sharpens everything and Sport Plus even more to make tackling uphill winding stretches like the Gillies a lot more fun and secure.Despite its weight and its tall body the ML 63 AMG can be quite a tidy handler, with little body roll, good steering responses and great brakes. Often the stability control light flashed on and off up the Gillies but there was no noticeable interference from the electronic nanny.The automatic downshifting and engine blipping is marvellous. It was a fine drive across the twisty and undulating sections of the Springmount Rd from Walkamin to the Dimbulah turn off. It stormed from corner to corner with aplomb and even on second rate country roads it traversed with dignity and tidiness unbecoming of a big SUV.It cruises on the open road with relative quietness with just the large door mirrors causing wind rush but engine and road noise was subdued. Overtaking is a joy. Smash the loud pedal and the ML 63 AMG gets past slower vehicles briskly and safely.For the journey down the Kuranda Range I engaged the radar setting which kept me a safe distance from the vehicle in front. At no time down the range did I use the brakes at all. I just steered and the big Benz did everything else.VERDICTThe ML 63 AMG is an astonishing vehicle. It combines storming performance with the practicality of a 4WD five-door SUV with plenty of room for the youngsters and mum. Dad will be able to indulge his need for some Porsche 911 get up and go while still being able to provide regular transport for mum on the school, sport and supermarket runs. Economy is never going to be one of its strong points but it gives the family man the option of a sporty drive with all the requirements for the youngsters and mum. It's a no-brainer really.Mercedes-Benz ML 63 AMGBody: five-door luxury SUVWarranty: three years/100,000kmPrice: $189,713 drive awayEngine: 5.5-litre twin turbo V8, 386kW/700NmTransmission: 7-speed automatic, AWDPerformance: 0-100km/h in 4.8 seconds, top speed 250km/h (limited)Thirst: 11.8L/100km, petrol (18.1L on test), 93 litres, CO2 276g/kmDimensions: length 4804mm, width 1926mm, height 1796mm, wheelbase 2915mm, weight: 2345kgRIVALSAudi Q7 4.2TDIPrice: from $128,800Engine: 4.2-litre 8-cylinder, 250kW/800NmTransmission: 8-speed auto, AWDThirst: 9.2L/100km, CO2 242g/km Audi Q7 - see other Audi Q7 verdicts BMW X5Price: from $113,300Engine: 3-litre 6-cylinder, 225kW/600Nm Transmission: 8-speed auto, 4X4 constantThirst: 7.5L/100km, CO2 198g/km  BMW X5 - see other BMW X5 verdicts 

There's something really intimidating about a vehicle that looks, sounds, goes and weighs as much as the new Mercedes-Benz ML63AMG.VALUEYou'll need a cool $177,900 - the price for the ultimate ML is tainted by Luxury Car Tax and other taxes escalating it to higher levels. There is a generous level of standard equipment that includes a whoppa of a touchscreen incorporating satnav, TV, car controls and multi media interface.Keeping you entertained is a superb Harman Kardon audio system.The amount of electrically assisted features is incredible: steering wheel adjustment, front seats, windows, tailgate, locking, keyless start and more. The ML63 rides on a set of striking 21-inch alloys with nice fat rubber. The test vehicle's AMG Sports suspension offered ride selection options and the huge brakes never dropped the ball.TECHNOLOGYIt will surprise you how much fuel this twin-turbo, petrol V8 doesn't use rated at an average combined 11.8-litres/100km. There's low rolling resistance tyres, low friction axle drives and electric steering helping to cut fuel use.Engine stop/start helps around town and the direct injection, 386kW/700Nm, 5.5-litre donk features a raft of high tech components to optimise efficiency.It drives all four wheels constantly through a seven-speed AMG Speedshift transmission — the one that blips the throttle on downshifts in Sport mode and functions almost anonymously under normal driving.DESIGNIt's a five seater with plenty of room in the back for luggage. Comfort levels are elevated by the heated front seats and leather upholstery.SAFETYThe five star safety arsenal is comprehensive and among the best available for primary and secondary crash avoidance/protection. Heck, it even tells you to wake up if you driving drops off the pace. The cruise control is radar operated and maintains a preset distance between cars in front - all pretty tricky stuff.DRIVINGPhysics dictate something like this shouldn't be capable of what it will do. Point it at a set of switchbacks, select Sport mode and manual shift and you will be absolutely astounded at how this big vehicle rampages through corners with nary a wriggle or a squirm. Boot it hard off the line and the ML63 accelerates like the best of them covering a 0-100kmh sprint in under 5.0 seconds - well under.Wind down the windows and revel in the exhaust ‘explosion’ between gear changes under full throttle - it's almost a primal experience - fear and awe. Then, when you want to cruise around town with the kids, do some shopping, commute to work, dial the ML back to ‘eco’ and Comfort mode and it's like a luxury saloon car - supple, quiet, smooth, extremely well appointed.VERDICTImpressive truck. Takes something really serious to see it off in a straight line — or through corners. Practical, stylish (though we prefer the look of the previous model), luxurious and safe. Has the most in-your-face exhaust outlets of any car.ML63 offers the best of both worlds in a big, boxy, practical package.Mercedes-Benz ML63 AMGPrice: from $177,900Warranty: Three yearsEngine: 5.5-litre 8-cyl 386kW/700NmTransmission: seven-speed automatic, 4x4 constantBody: 4804mm (L), 1926mm (W), 1796mm (H)Weight: 2345kgThirst: 11.8L/100km, 276g/km CO2

The just launched all-new Mercedes-Benz M-Class demonstrates just how good the concept was when launched 15 years ago. No more so than in the styling.In profile the new Mercedes M-Class is instantly recognisable by the shape of the swept C-pillar and the way the D-pillar is blacked out to make it seem all but invisible. At the front the changes are more noticeable, with the new, very bold face being closely allied to the sporting look of the latest range of Benz sedans.Aimed at the American market right from the start, the German SUV is actually built in that country, the factory being situated in an area once struggling economically, but now doing very well thanks to the foresight of Mercedes. Being aimed at the Americans means the Mercedes M-Class is very much suited to Australians as well.Though similar in external size to the outgoing second generation M-Class - it’s marginally longer and wider and slightly lower - the gen-three vehicle is noticeably more spacious inside than before. Even better, it has a light and airy feel that makes it appear larger again. Again, the dash area follows the latest Mercedes’ style, with large, easy-to-read speedo and tacho directly in front of the driver and a good-sized multifunction central display screen sitting high to minimise driver distraction.A new range of control stalks gradually being introduced throughout the Mercedes range are a feature of the new M-Class. To our fingers they don’t have the same solid feel as the long-standing older units, but we will probably become used to them with practice. Another change that will be noticed by longtime drivers of M-Class, is the replacement of the somewhat awkward foot-operated parking brake with a finger operated unit near the bottom right of the steering wheel. That is, in the same position occupied by the release lever for many years - a sensible move.The complete 2012 Mercedes-Benz M-Class is priced between $81,400 and $177,900. Pricing of the all-new Mercedes-Benz M-Class is impressive, with drops of several thousand dollars compared with the outgoing model, and that despite the new M-Class having significantly more equipment than its predecessors.A full range of connectivity is offered in the new Mercedes SUV, with Bluetooth streaming, USB and even an SD card. A total of 40 Gb is used in the complex information and entertainment system that, among other things, provides Suna traffic management. Around 10 Gb is available for storage of music and similar files. At this stage only two engines are being imported to Australia due to high demand in other countries stretching the factory’s production output. These are both turbo-diesel units; a four-cylinder 2.1-litre producing up to 150 kilowatts of power and a stunning 500 Newton metres of torque; and a 3.0-litre V6 with an even more impressive 190 kW and 620 Nm. Fuel consumption figures of 6.4 and 7.3 litres per hundred kilometres, respectively, are quoted for the two diesel engines described below. Driven carefully on country trips the ML 250 could cover 1500 kilometres between fills. These new-design diesels, working with a stop-start system, seven-speed automatic, low rolling resistance tyres, clever body aerodynamics and numerous smaller changes have pulled the fuel consumption down by an average of 25 per cent across the new model range.These are astonishing improvements that would have been considered all-but impossible as recently as 10 years ago. These engines, called BlueTec by Mercedes, meet the tough Euro 6 emission control requirements. Making them about five to six years ahead of Australian regulations. Well done, Mercedes. Petrol powerplants with six and eight cylinders are scheduled to arrive as soon as the Australian importer can get hold of stock from the American factory. Also in the pipeline is a red-hot AMG model, we were fortunate enough to test one in the USA earlier this year - and can’t wait to see it downunder...Primary safety is provided by a host of electronic systems, many of them pioneered by Mercedes in the topline S-Class models, as well as daytime running lights (DRLs). Secondary safety sees the fitment of no fewer than nine airbags (including side units front and rear and a driver’s knee bag).Over a two-day period we sampled both new turbo-diesels - the ML 250 and ML 350 - on an extended drive program set by Mercedes-Benz out of Melbourne, along the famed Great Ocean Road and in the hills behind the coast. Even the 2.1-litre engine is likely to provide enough performance for the average owner, with strong torque, and good response from both the engine and transmission. The 3.0 is there for those who like a bit of sport from their diesels. The vehicles are smooth and quiet to ride in, though we did find the ride on vehicle fitted with the 19-inch wheels and 45-series tyres a little on the jiggly side on broken bitumen roads. The front seats are large and support well and there’s a feeling of quality and refinement in the interior that will impress all who travel within it. The thick windscreen pillars - to make the M-Class safer during a crash - blocked our view on some bends, particularly when the roads were dropping downhill and sweeping to the right. Steering is by a new electrically assisted system (part of the fuel reduction package) provides good feel and has the added advantage that the big SUV can parallel park itself should the driver so desire. Road grip is well above that likely to be demanded by the typical owner, thus providing huge levels of safety.The complete 2012 Mercedes-Benz M-Class range is:ML 250 BlueTEC 2.2-litre turbodiesel five-door wagonML 250 BlueTEC Exclusive 2.2-litre turbodiesel five-door wagonML 350 BlueTEC 3.0-litre turbodiesel five-door wagonML 350 BlueEFFICIENCY 3.5-litre Biturbo petrol five-door wagonML 500 4.7-litre Biturbo petrol five-door wagonML63 AMG 5.5-litre Biturbo petrol five-door wagon

Santa Barbara, California, is the home of liposuction, boob jobs and Botox ... so the lighter, pumped-up and cosmetically updated Mercedes-Benz ML 63 AMG is right at home. The glitzy seaside city was the site for the world launch last week of the fifth AMG to get the smaller but more powerful 5.5-litre V8 engine. Here the high-performance SUV is in its element with the beautiful people.The good news for Aussie beautiful people is that when it arrives in June it will be more agile, more powerful, more efficient, slightly less ostentatious and probably about the same price.VALUEMercedes-Benz spokesman David McCarthy says there will be "little or no change in price and if it does go up it will have a lot more kit". The current price is $175,815 which places it under its main rivals: BMW X5 M ($178,200) and X6 M ($185,400), Range Rover Vogue supercharged V8 ($202,800) and Porsche Cayenne turbo ($248,600). In terms of value, the third-generation AMG SUV now sits closer to the BMW for driving dynamics and closer to the Range Rover for comfort.TECHNOLOGYEveryone is raving about this new bi-turbo engine, which is smaller in capacity, but has the most power and torque in its class while also being substantially more economical. In standard trim it has peak output of 386kW/700Nm, but with the optional performance package that increases turbo pressure, they rise to 410kW/760Nm.Fuel economy in both forms is now 11.8L/100km on the combined cycle, which is a 28 per cent improvement. It also now comes with an engine stop/start system to save fuel in commuter traffic. But the tech upgrade that raises the ML to new heights in dynamics is the new "active curve control" which uses active sway bars to resist roll in high-speed cornering.It is packaged with a new sports-tuned air suspension with adjustment for comfort and handling. The seven-speed automatic transmission now has a quirky double-declutching function for downshifts which blips the throttle and smooths out the cog changes just like a racing driver. But it retains the torque converter for more than three-tonne towing performance.STYLINGThe "braces" are off and the AMG now looks all grown up. The previous model featured a snarling grille that looked like it was wearing braces. This has been replaced by a more sombre look with darker materials and a three-pointed star with less "bling". Changes to its smile are reflected in more muted styling throughout, from the matte silver chrome apron up front to the discrete quad tailpipes at the rear. Inside, the luxury materials have been upgraded, the layout has been finessed and there is more choice for buyers, including formalising its bespoke operations at the factory.SAFETYIt's packed to the rafters with safety gear as we have come to expect with Benz. The active curve control feature should also be considered a safety feature as it keeps all four wheels on the ground in corners. There are up to nine airbags, lane-departure warning, blind-spot warning, a drowsiness detection system, tyre pressure monitors and it even automatically dabbed the brakes as a caution as we approached a cyclist from behind.DRIVINGThe canyon roads through the hills behind Santa Barbara are among the best I have ever driven. They are smooth and twisty with a wide variety of corners and dramatic semi-arid scenery. Our test drive in the ML 63 AMG highlighted the eerily flat handling characteristics of new active curve control technology and the smooth and quiet ride. It's the perfect blend of handling and ride for this type of vehicle. However, it didn't like the concrete joins in the highway, so it may not adapt too well to Australia's bumpier, coarse-chipped roads.The extra power in the performance pack is hardly noticeable, but the extra torque makes it leap off the line. That is, when the turbo has finally kicked in. Overtaking is troublesome with the turbo lag and then sudden boost making it difficult to judge just how close to go to the vehicle in front before swinging out to pass. The steering lacks feel and feedback, while pulling strongly back toward centre. Cornering is a joy with sharp turn-in and more rear feel from the 60 per cent torque split biased to the tail. Yet it doesn't fire as strongly from the apex of the corner as the X6 with its split rear diff.VERDICTIt may be the cheapest of the performance SUVs, but it sits right up there for driving dynamics and luxury with a near-perfect balance of handling agility and comfortable ride. As AMG boss Ola Groeneveld says, they have hit "the sweet spot". Benz has just about run out of current ML 63 AMGs in Australia and McCarthy reports there is already an order for 40. Expect these to sell like hot cakes among the Botox set.MERCEDES-BENZ ML 63 AMGOn sale: JunePrice: about $175,000Engine: 5.5L biturbo V8, 386kW/700Nm (410kW/760Nm)Transmission: 7G-Tronic Speedshift auto, AWD (60/40) Fuel economy: 11.8L/100km (combined)CO2: 276g/kmDimensions: 4817mm (L), 1940mm (W), 1750-1813mm (H), 2915mm (WB).