2007 Mercedes-Benz ML500

Afer receiving a redesign in 2006, the Mercedes-
Benz ML500 changed little for 2007. The uni-body structure provides a smooth, quiet ride, while the exterior retains its aggressive good looks, with the Mercedes star positioned prominently in the center of the silver, chrome-ribbed grille.

Under the hood is a 5.0-liter, double-overhead-cam V8 engine that provides 302 horsepower. The seven-speed electronically controlled seven-speed automatic features a steering-wheel-mounted Direct Select shifter.

Like its M-Class bretheren, the ML500 is equipped with a number of features designed to improve safty and enhance the driving experience. Those features include 4MATIC permanent four-wheel drive; a Downhill Speed Regulation feature that automatically adjusts the brakes and throttle to maintain a safe crawl speed when descending steep hills; a Hill-Start assist that prevents roll-back when starting from a stop on steep grades; and an off-road driving program, which enables the driver to automatically recalibrate the engine, transmission, traction system, and anti-lock brakes for off-road driving, all at the press of a single button.

Inside, standard features include heated eight-way power-adjustable front seats with lumbar support, a leather-trimmed steering wheel, Burl Walnut wood trim, dual-zone climate control, a multi-function steering wheel with audio system controls, power windows, a tilt/telescoping steering wheel, and electronic cruise control.

For entertainment and communcations, the ML500 is equipped with a modular COMAND Cockpit Management and Data system that integrates an LCD screen, an eight-speaker AM/FM stereo system, and a CD player, as well as an optional six-disc CD changer with MP3 capabilities, a navigation system, and Sirius satellite radio.

In its early years, the M-Class vehicles received mixed reviews from drivers, primarily due to quality-control issues. But the second-generation M-Class vehicles, including the ML500, have received better marks from drivers, who compare it favorably to the competitors' mid-size SUVs.