While the new ML is already offered with a V8 engine in North America (besides the ML63 AMG, that is), in Europe, Mercedes-Benz has just added a V8 petrol version to the ML’s non-AMG range in the shape of the ML 500 4MATIC BlueEFFICIENCY that will be available for order from June 22 with first deliveries in the fall.
Even though the new 4.6-liter turbocharged V8 petrol engine with direct injection has a smaller displacement than its predecessor (5.4-liters), it’s 16 percent more fuel efficient and more powerful at 402hp (408PS) and 600Nm (442 lb-ft).
The V8 comes with a standard ECO start/stop function and transfers power to all four wheels via a seven-speed 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission.
In Germany, prices (including 19% VAT/TAX) for the new ML500 start at €75,029.50.
Mercedes-Benz also announced that for the 2013 model year, all European market ML models will come equipped with the COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST (CPA) system with adaptive Brake Assist as standard, while the German automaker has also tweaked the TFT display between the two instrument dials.
