With the price of petrol at an all-time high and manufacturers downsizing their cars for better fuel efficiency , it's nice to see that Mercedes-Benz hasn't abandoned the art of a putting a big engine in a big car. Indeed, this week, Mercedes has announced the introduction of its new ML 63 AMG.
Merc's new high-performance 4x4 has a 5.5-litre V8 churning out 525bhp and 516lb-ft of torque. Addition of the optional AMG Performance package boosts this to 557bhp and 560lb-ft of torque - that's very nearly as much power as a Ferrari 458 produces. With the AMG pack, 62mph arrives in 4.8 seconds and the ML 63 has to be physically restrained at 155mph.
Big alloy wheels and numerous AMG badges distinguish the ML 63 from the standard MLs in the range. Red brake callipers nestle under the massive AMG alloys and an AMG Performance steering wheel trimmed in nappa leather reminds the driver that they need to be careful with their right foot.
Mercedes has also revealed that the new ML 63 will be 28% more eco-friendly than its predecessor, returning 23.9mpg and 276g/km of CO2. Okay, so the ML 63 isn't exactly a Prius, but it's a start.
Merc is being tight-lipped on the subject of pricing but they can confirm that the ML 63 will be emptying British petrol stations from next spring.
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