With the redesigned 2012 Mercedes-Benz M-Class now out in the open, our thoughts turn to the high-performance variant of the M-Class range, the ML63 AMG. The styling of the new ML63 AMG will be more of an evolution than a complete revolution, however, the drivetrain will be completely new. Telltale signs that this is the AMG variant are the oversized cross-drilled brakes and dual exhaust tailpipes. Expect a slightly lowered ride height and a sports tuned suspension as well. If this still isn't enough, an available performance package should lift output to a heady 550 horsepower and 590 pound-feet of torque. Drive will be sent to all four wheels AMG鈥檚 latest SPEEDSHIFT MCT seven-speed sports transmission. Look out for a debut of the new ML63 AMG at this September鈥檚 2011 Frankfurt Auto Show or possibly at the Los Angeles Auto Show in November. First sales should start by the end of the year.

As a result of the additional intake pressure, the V8 delivers a very impressive 550 horsepower and 560 pound-feet of torque - thus allowing Mercedes the bragging rights of currently producing the world's most powerful sport utility vehicle. In addition, the electronic top speed limiter is raised to 174 mph and a carbon fiber engine cover replaces the standard plastic unit. Inside the cabin, a leather/Alcantara AMG Performance Steering Wheel replaces the standard four-spoke unit. Lastly, the gunmetal brake calipers are painted bright red - this is by far the easiest way to distinguish which models have the AMG Package. With the AMG Performance package, the 60 mph benchmark falls in just 4.6 seconds. Our Euro-spec model was also wearing 21-inch alloy wheels, wrapped in massive 295/35R21 tires at all four corners. 1,610) in the States. Sorry for the confusion in the ShortCut video. 2,150) bundling Distronic-Plus adaptive cruise control, Active Blind Spot Assist and Active Lane Keep Assist. 107,000 - before options.

With our test model lacking a push-to-start button, we twisted the key fob and the V8 cranked over with a sporty kick and quickly settled into a soft idle. The seats and steering wheel, the two primary driver touch points, are nearly perfect. The chairs are firm and supportive, with sturdy bolstering on the thigh, hip and shoulder while the meaty steering wheel is finished with smooth leather on top and textured Alcantara on each side, exactly where slippery palms need the grip. Being an SUV, the driving position is both commanding in visibility and generous with its room. Nearly immediately, we noticed the steering - it would prove to be our biggest gripe. Like most automakers, Mercedes-Benz is slowly phasing out its traditional hydraulic power steering systems and replacing them with simpler electromechanical systems. While there is a definite fuel economy advantage (primarily because the belt-driven hydraulic pump is removed), many find the systems lack feel and feedback. That said, the ML63 AMG uses a special AMG-tuned speed-sensitive electromechanical system that is simply too synthetic for our tastes.

At low speeds, it felt artificial, while at high speeds it bounced back to center as if held in place by thick rubber bands. The steering itself was impressively accurate and stable, but felt completely unnatural compared to traditional systems. Steering aside, we found plenty to like with the ML63 AMG during our initial jaunt eastbound on the highway heading towards Ojai. The cabin was free of wind noise and unexpectedly quiet, especially considering the four massive tire patches slapping the pavement at each corner. There was no noise coming from the other side of the firewall, either, as engineers have effectively muted the brawny V8 with well-placed insulation between its madly whirling parts and the passengers. However, there was beautiful music coming from the quad tail pipes - and it sounded superb. At low engine speeds it was a subdued deep burble that was never annoying. At higher engine speeds it became a stronger rumble, while full throttle gear changes were accompanied by a throaty explosive outburst that was so sexy we wanted to crawl into the rear hatch with it and cuddle.