Mercedes-Benz may claim to have invented the performance SUV, but even it knows that perfection can always be bettered - step forward the new ML 63 AMG.
It's lighter and more efficient than the old model, but more importantly it's also more powerful too. The 5.5-litre V8 bi-turbo petrol engine now boasts 525hp and 700Nm of torque; enough to see it sprint from 0-100km/h in 4.8 seconds. Those unhinged enough to crave even more speed can add the AMG Performance Pack, which increases boost from 1.0- to 1.3 bar and adds 32hp and 60Nm - though top speed remains limited to 250km/h.
All of that torque is transferred to the tarmac with the new AMG Speedshift Plus 7G-Tronic automatic gearbox sending drive to all four wheels (40:60 front to rear). There are three modes, including an ECO option that incorporates the stop-start system and early upshifts - the result is a combined average of 11.8 litres/100km (23.9mpg) and 276g/km CO2. Of more interest are the Sport and Manual modes though, which go as far as retarding ignition and fuel delivery to speed up the ratio swopping. Something called Active Curve System works in conjunction with the air suspension, anti-roll bars, automatic level control and Adaptive Damping System - resulting in an SUV that is claimed to corner flatter and quicker than ever before.
Both the exterior and interior are treated to some AMG improvements, the outside looking far meaner thanks to wider bumpers (to accommodate the standard 20-inch alloys), aggressive air intakes and a pair of twin exhausts. Inside it's standard ML fare, with some added AMG flair - sports seats, a flat-bottomed steering wheel, aluminum and piano black trim, contrasting stitching for the leather and an instrument cluster unique to the AMG model all feature.
Prices are still to be confirmed but the Mercedes-Benz ML 63 AMG will go on sale later in 2012 for any Irish takers.