2000 Mercedes-Benz ML55 AMG

2000 Mercedes-Benz ML55 AMG
CHICAGO - Mercedes-Benz confirmed that it will produce its ML55 AMG high-performance sport utility, which was introduced as a concept in Detroit last month, in very limited numbers for the 2000 model year. The 2000 ML55 AMG super ute is powered by a 340-horse 5.5-liter V8 that can propel it from 0-60 mph in less than seven seconds, faster than any SUV on the market. Top speed is estimated at nearly 150 mph. As Mercedes-Benz marketing chief Joe Eberhardt so eloquently put it, "Not only does it haul a lot of stuff, it hauls ass."

AMG is the premier tuner and racer of Mercedes-Benz vehicles, and is entrusted with running the company's GT racing effort. Mercedes recently purchased a majority interest in AMG, and plans to develop more Mercedes/AMG vehicles through this partnership. As with the Mercedes/AMG C43 and E55 performance sedans, the ML55 will also feature AMG upgrades to the brakes and suspension to go along with the high-output engine.

The ML55 AMG can be identified by its wider fender flares, unique rocker panels and "power domes" on the hood. It features xenon headlights with washers, a grille accented with chrome bars and fog lights built into the bumper. At the rear, a unique panel continues the bumper line straight across the liftgate. Wide, five-spoke, 18-inch wheels and dual chrome exhaust tips complete the performance look.

Inside, special upgrades include high-bolstered AMG leather sport seats, leather trimmed armrests and console storage, a walnut steering wheel and dark burl walnut trim. The ML55 instrument cluster sports chrome-ringed gauges with white analog faces, while the center console features all new modular panel that integrates controls for audio system, optional phone and standard satellite navigation system.

The ML55 boasts full-time four-wheel drive, a five-speed electronic automatic transmission and traction control. It should arrive by late '99 or early 2000; pricing will be announced before the launch, but look for an MSRP in the mid-$60,000 range. Eberhardt said that 2,000 units will be built for the U.S. market next year, quadruple the amount that Mercedes usually produces of an AMG model.