Traditional Mercedes Luxury in a Midsize Package by Kelly Foss www.car-data.com The ML is the midsize SUV offering in the Mercedes suite of vehicles. This is the second generation of this model and has improved in every way from past models. The ML delivers the full Mercedes luxury package and most of the accoutrements that the larger GL does, only in a more manageable size. The ML can in no way be considered a fly-weight. Rather, it is a substantial vehicle providing a no-compromise luxury experience.

The styling of this latest ML bespeaks class and presence. It’s a careful combination of finesse and quality using fine materials and precise execution but it’s not a fragile delicate machine. The ML is solid and substantial and under its near perfect paint you find a fully capable SUV able to earn its keep by hauling and towing for years and years.

The ML is offered in ML350 trim with a 3.5 V6 engine and a 320CDI which is a turbocharged 3.0 liter clean diesel. Additionally, there is a new 550 V8 and, finally, the high performance 63AMG with a specially prepared 503 horsepower V8. All models come with 4MATIC full time 4-wheel drive and a 7-speed automatic transmission.

The new 550 replaces the previous 500 model. The 550 is a 5.5 liter V8 that churns out a potent 382 horsepower and an impressive 391 lbs. of torque at pretty low rpm. This, driven through a very fine 7-speed automatic transmission, provides plenty of thrust. An additional benefit falls under the category of efficiency. According to Mercedes, you also get increased power allowing acceleration to 60 miles per hour in just 5.6 seconds with no loss in fuel economy.

The styling of the 550 is also unique with an AMG inspired front fascia, 19 inch AMG 5-spoke wheels, running boards, rear bumpers, dual exhaust and standard moon roof. The new ML550 is a proper upscale midsize SUV. With the standard 4MATIC 4-wheel drive system it can go mostly anywhere, fast and in style. The new ML550 starts at about $53,000 including delivery.