Mercedes-Benz ML 63 AMG review, test drive

For all other purposes, the ML 63 is a Merc. That means there’s a sense of heft to everything you touch and operate (except maybe the lid for the cupholders on the centre console). If anything, you might complain that this cabin, apart from the AMG dials, flat-bottomed, Alcantara and leather steering wheel, superbly bolstered AMG seats and Alcantara roof lining, feels too subdued and non-AMG on the inside.

The same can be said about the outside – the AMG hints are subtle. You need to look for the AMG wheels and the massive brakes, quad rectangular exhaust tips and the 'V8 Biturbo' badges on the flanks. The bumpers are different as well, but not too different from the Launch Edition ML 350 CDI, and the uninitiated could mistake if for just another big Merc SUV with fancy wheels. Some might not like that subtlety, especially since they are paying so much more.

Speaking of which,  the ML 63 AMG costs Rs 1.5 crore (ex-showroom, Delhi) and that's not cheap by any measure. What Merc is hoping then is that those who have it will flaunt it.