2009 Mercedes-Benz M-Class ML550

The Mercedes-Benz M-Class ML550 midsize SUV receives a minor exterior facelift for 2009, as well as a few new interior features. Inside, the ML550 gets a new seat design and a leather-wrapped four-spoke steering wheel with updated shift panels. In addition, the ML550 now comes equipped with Neck-Pro head restraints on the front seats as standard safety equipment. The interior also includes an 8-way power-adjustable driver's seat, a power tilt-and-slide sunroof with sunshade, dual-zone climate control, and an 8-speaker audio system with a 6-CD changer, speed-sensitive volume, and an MP3 input jack. Brown Birdseye Maple wood trim and MB-Tex leatherette upholstery come standard throughout the cabin, although owners can add leather upholstery and heated front seats as options. Outside, the ML550 now sports a larger front grille, reshaped headlights, larger exterior mirrors, a wider rear bumper with integrated reflector strips, and new taillights with smoked glass. Front foglights, rain-sensing headlights, heated exterior mirrors, and chrome exhaust pipes also come standard.

For power, the ML350 comes equipped with a 5.5-liter V8 engine, which produces 382 hp and 391 lb-ft of torque. The engine links to a seven-speed automatic transmission with two overdrive gears, and drives the ML350 from 0-60 in 5.6 seconds. Mercedes' 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system, which features a permanent 40/60 front-to-rear torque split, helps ensure optimal traction and stability on all types of road surfaces. The AWD system works in conjunction with the four-wheel electronic traction system, which balances torque split and sends torque to the wheels with the most traction in slippery road conditions. An electronic stability program and antilock brakes with brake assist also come standard. The '09 ML550 rides on 19-inch alloy wheels with all-season tires.

By R. Feeman