Mercedes-Benz Announces Plans to Build High-Performance SUV
11 February 1999
Mercedes-Benz Announces Plans to Build High-Performance ML55 SUV; New Model Combines Supercar Performance with M-Class Versatility and SafetyCHICAGO, Feb. 10 -- Mercedes-Benz announced at press activities preceding the Chicago Auto Show that it will produce the high-performance ML55 AMG sport-utility vehicle for model-year 2000. The ML55 is expected to arrive in late 1999. The Mercedes-Benz ML55 AMG shows the extraordinary potential of the M-Class platform and at the same time sets a new standard for performance in the sport-utility category. Pricing will be announced close the retail launch of the vehicle, but it is estimated to be in the mid-$60,000 range. Availability will be greater than current and previous AMG models, with about 2,000 vehicles earmarked for the U.S. market in model-year 2000. The ML55 AMG builds on the award-winning M-Class foundation, which already offers levels of performance and safety above and beyond most other SUVs. Poised to redefine the high end of the SUV category, the ML55 is powered by an AMG-modified 5.5-liter version of the new-generation Mercedes-Benz V8 engine that produces over 340 horsepower. This specially made powerplant is capable of blasting the high-performance four-wheel-drive SUV from zero to 60 miles per hour in less than seven seconds and taking it to a top speed of nearly 150 mph on Germany's Autobahn superhighway. AMG is the premier tuner and racer of Mercedes-Benz vehicles, and is entrusted with running the company's GT racing effort. With the AMG-built CLK-GTR racecars, Mercedes-Benz captured the FIA-GT championship two years in a row. Mercedes-Benz recently purchased a majority interest in AMG, and will continue to develop Mercedes/AMG vehicles through this partnership. As with the current Mercedes/AMG C43 and E55 performance sedans, the ML55 features AMG modifications to the brakes and suspension that ensure the vehicle's handling dynamics and safety match its tremendous performance potential. The ML55 AMG can be identified by its wider fender flares, unique rocker panels and a generally more athletic look, including "power domes" on the front hood that are reminiscent of the legendary Mercedes-Benz roadsters. The grill is accented with chrome bars, fog lights are built into the bumper, and xenon lights with headlight washers are fitted as well. At the rear, a special panel continues the bumper line straight across the liftgate. Wide five-spoke 18-inch wheels and dual chrome exhaust tips complete the picture on the outside. The interior of the ML55 exudes the elegance of a luxury sedan, with content surpassing even that of the current V8-powered ML430. High-bolstered AMG sport seats are finished in super-soft leather and contrasted by dark burl walnut trim. The armrests and console storage are leather-covered, as well as part of the walnut steering wheel. The ML55 instrument cluster sports chrome-ringed gauges with white analog faces, while the center console holds a large display featuring an integrated navigation system which is set up for easy add-on modular phone and audio systems.