Tested: 2000 Mercedes-Benz ML55 AMG Photos

As one of the first shockwaves in the explosive popularity of high-performance luxury SUVs, the 2000 Mercedes ML55 AMG brought a stout V-8, updated chassis tuning, and greater swagger on the street. Little did we know at the time how far hot-rod utility vehicles would evolve from its modest fortification. Read the full story here.

The 2000 Mercedes-Benz ML55 AMG's performance seems modest now, but its 6.8-second run to 60 mph was impressive at the time.

One of the ML55 AMG's most prominent tells were the twin bulges that ran down its hood.

At the other end of the ML55 AMG, large chrome-tipped exhaust pipes emitted a deep V-8 rumble.

Despite its suspension upgrades and summer tires, the ML55 could only manage 0.74 g of grip on the skidpad.

While still more capacious than a Porsche 911, the ML55's side-mounted spare tire ate up precious space in its cargo hold.

The Mercedes-Benz ML55 AMG rolled on chunky 18-inch aluminum wheels wrapped with Dunlop SP Sport 9000 summer tires, sized 285/50WR-18.

Although it was badged the ML55, the engine under its hood was really a 5.4-liter V-8 good for a decent but not wild 342 horsepower.

The 2000 Mercedes-Benz ML55 AMG also can be identified by its revised front bumper with integrated fog lights, as well as its muscular fender flares.

2000 Mercedes-Benz ML55 AMG

2000 Mercedes-Benz ML55 AMG