Igor Mortis Presents Mercedes ML55

342 horsepower 376 torque lbs-ft 0 to 60 in 6.4 seconds (the fastest production SUV in the world. Well it was until the BMW X5 HF) 2 intake 1 exhaust valve per cylinder (24 total) 13.6 inch front brakes/13.5 inch rear brakes /60-0 in 125 feet Curb weight: 4861 pounds Manufacturers suggested retail price is $65, 500

When you think of Mercedes Benz automobiles, sleekness, strong but smooth lines, class and style come to mind. Unfortunately, the Mercedes ML55 does not entirely fit this stereotype. As every major car manufacturer has jumped on the "make an SUV to add to our line" bandwagon, this is also Mercedes first attempt at producing an SUV to add to their line (if you don't include the original Gelanderwagen utilitarian jeep). Herein lies the problem; although the ML55 sports the standard Mercedes grill, the aesthetics of this vehicle just does not match the stylishness of their cars. For example, the ML55 has a rather short, boxy body with too much height. In essence then, it has the appeal of a tall box with the butt cut off. Also, the vehicle generally seems to lack a smooth look. However, at least the ML55, unlike the ML430, has fender flares, chrome exhaust tips, a larger front air dam with integrated fog lights, and non-functioning power bulges in the hood . But still, as Marcus put it, "It is an ugly vehicle that has a belt line that is too tall, and the rear trunk/cargo space area is too short making the ML looked chopped off. As well, the largest fault in the design is its tallness. At least other companies do a good job proportioning their SUV's". The only thing that does stand out on the ML in an obnoxious, tacky way, are the chromed brabaus 20 inch wheels. These are after-market wheels and the stock AMG 18 inchers are much more tasteful. Generally then, the overall consensus amongst SUV admirers tends to be negative regarding the ML55's looks. (As a note of interest, the looks of the X5 BMW seems to be much more preferred).

The ML55 boasts a relatively comfortable interior The ML55 boasts a relatively comfortable interior. The special sports seats are roomy, relaxing, and they are not standard in other ML's. There is however not enough leg room in the back but at least the rear doors are large and open wide so your feet can fit into the vehicle. The headroom is excellent, but it is far greater than needed unless, as Marcus points out, "You're from Texas and are wearing a 5 gallon cowboy hat". This unusually high headroom is the very design flaw that makes the ML too tall and tippy looking. Also, one uncomfortable item that you have to fix your eyes on when entering the vehicle is the obviously placed sun visor warning sticker that the vehicle has a high rollover potential when turning at accelerated speeds. One of the models pointed this out immediately upon sitting down in the front seat and expressed her discomfort at that warning staring her in the face so blatantly.

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