Nico Rosberg celebrates his win in the Brazilian Grand Prix in Sao Paulo. REUTERS/Paulo Whitaker
Hamilton was second, 1.4 seconds behind, with Mercedes setting a Formula One record of 11 one-two finishes in a single season.
The team also equalled the record held by Ferrari and McLaren of 15 wins in a single season, with Rosberg now on five to his British rival's 10.
Brazilian Felipe Massa returned to the podium in front of his home crowd with third place for Williams, 41 seconds behind the winner.
The final race in Abu Dhabi on November 23 will offer double points for the first time -- 50 for the winner -- but Hamilton now needs only a second-place finish to wrap up his second title.
