MERCEDES BENZ ML 55 AMG (W163) 2002-2005 Photos, engines & full specs

After several years on the market, Mercedes-Benz upgraded the ML in 2002, and, along with the rest of the range, the top-performance version named ML55 AMG received more goodies.

When the German carmaker introduced the ML55 AMG version on the market in 1998, it was a threat for most American SUV makers. While the Jeep Grand Cherokee 5.9-liter was made only for a year but raised interest, Mercedes-Benz understood that there was room for increased performance in this market segment. So it took the hand-built 5.4-liter engine from the E-Class and dropped it into the engine bay of the body-on-frame first-generation ML.

With the upgraded 2002 model year, ML55 AMG, the SUV received additional safety features. In fact, it got the "Best Pick" mark from IIHS. The restyled bumper and the clear-lenses headlights were part of the most notable new features for the exterior. Also, the rear-view mirrors received turn signals, similar to those installed in the C-Class. In addition, the power-dome hood and the 18" alloy wheels differentiated the AMG version from the rest of the ML range. Of course, the flared wheel arches remained a specific feature for the top-performance SUV.

Inside, the SUV received a Teleaid system, which could send an emergency signal to the carmaker's center and call for help in case of an accident. The dual airbag and the GPS navigation system were also present. The leather-wrapped interior with heated front seats was part of the standard package like its predecessor. Also, the rain-sensor wipers were included.

Under the hood, the car got the same 5.4-liter powerplant mated to the five-speed automatic gearbox, which offered a manual override system. Thus, the driver could select and change the gears by themselves. Obviously, the all-wheel drive was standard.