BEIJING — Mercedes-Benz never ceases to impress! Not long after the launch of the new ML 350 Dynamic and new ML 350 Luxury, ML 500 featuring the new Mercedes-Benz 5.5 liter V8 power plant now hits China to meet the Chinese consumers’ discerning and individualistic demands for power and ultra high on-/off-road performance on luxury SUVs.

In its inner self, the new 5.5 liter V8 power plant injects passion into the new ML 500, set to grab the attention of those seeking a superior driving experience. Upgrading from previous 5.0 liter engine, the new power plant offers an enormous output of 285kw/388hp at 6000rpm and also torque of 530 Newton Meters starting from 2800rpm. It takes only 5.8 seconds to speed up the new ML 500 from 0 to 100km/h, being able to reach a maximum speed of 250 km/h (electronically limited), which puts the new model in a leading position in terms of power and performance in the competition line.

Apart from its power, the new ML 500 also added luxury to its blood with its interior and exterior specifications. Leather upholstery and burr walnut trims create an atmosphere of a sedan, while newly standardized Aux-In system with iPod and Mp3 connection give occupants a sublime sense of enjoyment. In terms of the exterior, the new ML 500 provides a perfect combination of sporty and luxury elements. The 19-inch 6-spoke light-alloy wheels, footplates in aluminum finishing with rubber studs are also featured as standard exterior specifications on the new ML 500 this time.

All of the fresh features in the new ML 500 are added value without compromising performance in both off-road and on-road superiority. With Mercedes-Benz’s AIRMATIC air suspension and 4MATIC permanent all-wheel-drive system, it enables the new ML 500 an approach angle of 27 degree and a departure angle of 26 degree. The 100% of maximum upgrade angle also secures itself the No.1 against the competitors. AIRMATIC brings the top-level comfort, safety, as well as fuel consumption economy. Other equipments of cutting-edge technology from Mercedes are also found on the new ML 500, such as 7G-TRONIC seven-speed automatic transmission and advanced safety technology. Standing on top of its range, the new ML 500 with the most integrated offerings will undoubtedly satisfy even the very most demanding needs all in one piece of art.

Ever since its premiere in 1997, the Mercedes-Benz M-Class consistently set the benchmark in its market segment. In 2007, despite fierce competition in the SUV segment, sales of Mercedes-Benz SUVs achieved a breakthrough of 3,000 units, boasting a sharp rise of 90%. Now with three new M-Class models launched in China in early 2008 – ML 350 Dynamic, ML 350 Luxury and ML 500 – it reinforces Mercedes-Benz’s continuous attention to meet the individualized and diversified demands of Chinese customers while meeting the highest standards.