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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 Safety

    CHICAGO, 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.