2008 Mercedes ML550

Since being introduced more than 10 years ago, there has been a procession of more powerful V-8s in the Mercedes-Benz ML line of Sports Utility Vehicles, starting with the 268 horsepower Mercedes ML430. After that we saw another great 268-hp in the ML500, and then the 342 horsepower ML55 AMG.

When the current-generation 268 horsepower V-6 ML350 was driven for the first time, it was said to be not necessary because because the ML500’s 302 horsepower, 5.0-liter V-8 only gave it an extra 34 horsepower at the time. 

At the New York Auto Show, Mercedes replaced the ML500 with the more powerful ML550. Approximately 26 percent more powerful. The new ML550 promises 382 horsepower, with the 32-valve DOHC 5.5-liter V-8 from the S-class underhood, that is 80 more than in the ML500 and 40 more than the original ML55, but less than the strongest current ML (the 503-hp ML63 AMG).

This M-class should be able to do 0-to-60mph in under 5.3 seconds, just as the S-class sedan.

Besides the engine, no upgrades are planned for the 2008 ML550, which has a base price of around $55,000.