2008 Mercedes-Benz ML 500 4MATIC

The Mercedes-Benz ML 500 4MATIC has arrived in showrooms across the nation sporting an impressive new power plant.

Now fitted with the potent 285kW V8 petrol engine, the new ML 500 4MATIC boasts more power and torque whilst consuming less fuel.

Compared to the outgoing 5.0-litre engine, this new 5.5-litre V8 unit brings a power increase of 60 kW with torque climbing 15 percent from 460 Nm to 530 Nm.

Mated to Mercedes-Benz’s 7G-TRONIC seven-speed automatic transmission, the ML 500 4MATIC will produce a 0-100km/h time of 5.8 seconds and an electronically limited top speed of 210 km/h.

A combined fuel consumption rate of 12.9 litres per 100km is down from 13.4 of the previous engine.

On-road stability is balanced through a geometrically-optimised double-wishbone suspension system which provides anti-dive control and torsion-bar stabilisation.

Further on-road enhancements come in the form of AIRMATIC air suspension fitted as standard which optimises ride comfort and dynamic cornering with its level control function and adaptive damping system.

It’s off-road strengths are obvious, with the 4MATIC all-wheel drive system providing large reserves of traction in slippery surface conditions through the combination of both its 4ETS traction system and Mercedes-Benz’s Electronic Stability Programme.

With two manually-selectable differential locks, a two-speed transfer case with low-range gearing and a reinforced rear-axle differential, the Off-Road Pro engineering package lets drivers conquer the most rugged of terrain in Mercedes luxury.

The ML 500 4MATIC, like all cars in the M-Class range, features ABS, Electronic Stability Programme, brake assist, eight airbags, NECK-PRO head restraints and the marque’s clever PRE-SAFE anticipatory occupant protection system all as standard.

Customers will have the choice between two standard luxury packages, which include 19-inch light alloy wheels in 5-spoke design, leather upholstery, full electric front seats with memory function and much more.

Additionally, customers may also choose to option the Premium Package for a cost of $4900 which includes DISTRONIC autonomous intelligent cruise control, luxury front seats and KEYLESS-GO automatic lock/unlock and drive authorisation system which would otherwise total more than $9000.

Furthermore, buyers will be able to customise their vehicle with the exclusive Designo range of colours and materials for their interior colour choices, offered here in the M-Class for the first time in Australia.

Pricing for the ML 500 4MATIC will begin at $120,874.