2000 ML55 AMG
Mercedes’ sport-utility vehicle for the year in 2000 was given rear side airbags, optional third-row seating, revised interior features, a new high-performance model, and a pair of “designer” appearance options. The M-Class will continue in V6 ML320 and V8 ML430 models.
In 2000 the ML55 AMG boasted of a larger V8, bigger brakes, exclusive 18-inch wheels with low-profile tires, and sport front bucket seats. Only an exclusive 1500 vehicles were made available for 2000. All models have 5-speed automatic transmission, now with Mercedes’ Touch Shift manual shift gate, plus permanent 4-wheel drive with separate low-range gearing controlled by a dashboard button.
All models were given new door panels, lower-dash padding, and leather gearshift knob; ML320s also was given the V8 models’ wood trim, leather-covered steering wheel, and body-colored bumpers and mirrors. Another new standard was an in-dash video display like that on Mercedes passenger cars; it controls the audio system and, where equipped, cell phone and satellite navigation functions.
The nav system was a dealer-installed option for ML320, standard elsewhere. Added in the spring of ‘99 as across-the-board options are “designo” trim packages featuring Cognac or Mystic Green paint and special interiors with poplar-wood trim.