Engine: 5.0-liter overhead cam 24-valve V8

Engine Options: 268-hp 3.5-liter V6; 215-hp 3.2-liter diesel V6; 302-hp 5.0-liter V8; 503-hp 6.2-liter V8

Transmission: 7-speed automatic

Transmission Options: 7-speed automatic

Standard Safety Equipment: dual-stage front airbags, front and rear passenger side-impact airbags; front and rear curtain-style head protection airbags, electronic stability control, anti-lock brakes with EBD, tire pressure monitor

Optional Safety Equipment: Parktronic parking aid; rearview camera

Basic Warranty: 4 years/50,000 miles

Assembled In: Vance, Alabama

Model Tested: Mercedes-Benz ML 500 ($49,200)

Standard Equipment: dual-zone automatic climate control, heated front seats with leather upholstery and power adjustment, burl walnut trim, power windows, remote keyless entry, tilt/telescope steering wheel, floor console, cruise control, eight-speaker stereo with AM/FM/CD, COMAND LED information and control center, automatic headlights, rain-sensing wipers, rear window wiper, integrated garage door opener, Tele-aid emergency communication, 18-inch alloy wheels, roof rails

Options as Tested: DVD-based navigation system ($1,650); Keyless Go starting ($1,100)

Destination Charge: 775

Gas Guzzler Tax:

Layout: all-wheel drive

Horsepower: 302 @ 5200

Torque: 339 @ 2700

Miles Per Gallon in the City/Highway: 14/19

Wheelbase: 114.7 inches

Length/Width/Height in Inches: 188.5/75.2/70.1 inches

Track Front/Rear: 64.0/64.1 inches

Turning Cycle: 37.9 feet

Seating Capacity: 5 people

Head/Hip/Leg Room, f: 39.9/59.8/42.2 inches

Head/Hip/Leg Room, m: inches

Head/Hip/Leg Room, r: 39.8/59.8/40.0 inches

Trunk Volume: 72.4 cubic feet

Payload:

Suspension, f: independent, double wishbones, coil springs

Ground Clearance: 8.3 inches

Curb Weight: 4795 pounds

Towing Capacity: 5000 pounds

Tires: P255/55R18

Brakes: vented disc/vented disc with ABS, EBD, Brake Assist

Fuel Capacity: 25.1 Gallons