2011 Mercedes ML63 AMG Facelift Review

A best-seller unveils its updated exterior: the 2011 Mercedes ML63 AMG facelift, featuring a powerful 375 kW (510 hp) AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine, takes on a more attractive appearance thanks to some subtle but effective changes. From the front, the eye is immediately drawn to the new bonnet with power domes, and the darkened bi-xenon headlamps with active light function.

The rear, meanwhile, also contributes appropriately to the new look: the performance SUV now features darkened tail lamps incorporating a clear-lens design and LED technology. The subtle changes to the exterior coordinate perfectly with the high-gloss, chromed front and rear underguard, and afford the 2011 Mercedes ML63 AMG facelift an even more powerful and distinctive appearance.

Powerful and torque-laden AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine Still boasting a power output of 375 kW (510 hp) at 6800/rpm as well as 630 Nm of torque, the 2011 Mercedes ML63 AMG facelift is capable of accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.0 seconds, and achieves a top speed of 250 km/h (electronically limited). At the renowned International Engine of the Year Awards in 2009, the AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine took the top places in both the "Best Performance Engine" and "Above 4 litres" categories. As before, power transfer is taken care of via the AMG SPEEDSHIFT 7G-TRONIC automatic transmission with three drive modes. The permanent all-wheel drive is decidedly sporty: the power is split asymmetrically 40:60 between the front and rear wheels to provide optimum agility. The AMG sports suspension, based on the AIRMATIC package with air suspension, adaptive damping system ADS and automatic level control all-round, provides dynamic performance combined with the hallmark Mercedes long-distance comfort. The generously dimensioned AMG high-performance braking system, which features internally ventilated and perforated brake discs all-round, ensures short braking distances and optimum resistance to fading.

The 2011 Mercedes ML63 AMG facelift comes with 5-spoke AMG light-alloy wheels, which are painted titanium grey with a high-sheen finish and fitted with 295/40 R 20 tyres on the front and rear. As an optional extra, titanium-grey-painted, high-sheen twin-spoke AMG light-alloy wheels fitted with 295/35 R 21 tyres are also available.

High-quality interior with nappa leather upholstery

As usual, the interior of the 2011 Mercedes ML63 AMG facelift is both functional and high-quality: electrically adjustable AMG sports seats finished in nappa leather upholstery, with Alcantara inserts in the shoulder areas and multicontour function and heating, are complemented by the AMG sports steering wheel with AMG aluminium shift paddles and perforated leather on the specially-shaped grip area. A nappa leather-trimmed dashboard is also available as an optional extra.