Continuing its aggression with its AMG sub-brand, Mercedes-Benz has launched the ML63 AMG in India, priced at Rs. 1.49 crore (ex-showroom, Delhi). The ML63 AMG is a performance SUV which is powered by a 5.5-litre V8 bi-turbo powerplant that belts out a massive 532 PS of peak power and an equally insane 700 Nm of twisting force. This motor is matched to a 7G-TRONIC AMG Speedshift automatic gearbox and power is channelled to all wheels via the 4MATIC all-wheel drive system. 0-100 km/hr takes 4.8 seconds (4.7 seconds with the AMG Performance package which is included in the Indian model) while top speed is curbed to 250 km/hr with the help of a limiter. This limiter can be re-calibrated via the optional AMG Driver’s Package, boosting the top whack to 280 km/hr.
Besides getting a mammoth of an engine under its belly, the ML63 AMG also gets multiple tweaks on the outside which include an AMG bodykit with big air intakes at the front and quad exhausts at the rear. The interiors too have been upped with a sporty quotient, they get AMG titbits including sporty AMG leather seats, aluminium pedals, AMG performance steering and AMG dials on the instrument cluster to name a few. Mercedes also sells the GL63 AMG in India which is priced at Rs. 1.66 crore. The ML63 AMG being lighter, is 0.1 seconds quicker than the GL63 AMG in the sprint to the ton.
The Mercedes ML63 AMG is brought into India via the CBU route. The company isn’t looking at high volumes but seeing the demand for performance SUVs, the German automaker has been quick in bringing in the AMG tuned SUVs. The company has also inaugurated its first Indian AMG Performance Centre in Delhi (the 375th in the world) at the launch of the ML63 AMG. Another such centre is coming up in Bangalore and will open shop tomorrow. Mercedes’ next AMG launch is the CLA45 AMG in July. The automaker already sells the C63 AMG, E63 AMG, G63 AMG, SLK 55 AMG and GL63 AMG in India, with the ML63 AMG being the latest addition to the go-fast lineup from Afflerbach.
