Carscoop’s spies have bagged new photos of the upcoming 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML 63 AMG testing in Germany. The most powerful member of the new M-Class family will compete against BMW’s X5 M, which packs a twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 engine pumping out 555HP and 680Nm or 501 lb-ft of peak torque.
The current ML 63 AMG is powered by a naturally aspirated 6.2-liter V8 engine delivering -in U.S. spec- 503HP at 6,800 rpm and a peak torque of 465 lb-ft at 5,200 rpm. Even thought the 63 badge will remain, as with other new AMG models, the flagship version of the next ML will ditch the 6.2-liter lump for the firm’s newly developed 5.5-liter twin-turbocharged V8 boasting direct-injection technology.
While the precise output of the biturbo V8 on the ML 63 AMG is not known yet, chances are the lump will deliver somewhere close to the 525HP and 516 lb-ft / 700Nm in normal guise, and 557HP and 590 lb-ft / 800Nm with the optional AMG Performance package, it does on the 2012 CLS 63 AMG sports saloon.
Despite the increase in power, the new bi-turbocharged V8 will be more fuel efficient and emit less CO2 than its predecessor. The German company’s latest AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission will handle the delivery of power to all four wheels.
Mercedes’ AMG division will also perform the necessary upgrades to the SUVs suspension and brake systems.
The spy photos reveal some of the design changes, which include an aero kit with a beefier front bumper, a bespoke rear bumper housing a pair of twin tailpipes and larger alloy wheels on the outside, and AMG specific sport seats, steering wheel and trim inside.
Expect to see the new ML 63 AMG making its debut after the standard 2012 ML, which is slated to be introduced at this year’s Frankfurt Motor Show.
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