MERCEDES-BENZ has boosted the appeal of its V8-powered ML500 SUV by increasing its displacement and performance with a potent new V8 engine. It is a 5.5-litre bent eight with 285kW and 530Nm - considerably more than the previous ML500. The engine has already appeared in other tri-star models including the S-class. While greenies are still not about to hug the ML500 for its environmental friendliness, the new model actually consumes a little less fuel than the previous car. It now has an ADR81/01 average of 12.9L/100km, down slightly from 13.4. The engine is paired to a seven-speed automatic and a permanent four-wheel drive system. Adjustable air suspension is now standard for the ML500. The price has risen since its 2005 launch, from $116,900 to $120,874, but the new car does have some extra equipment, including a reversing camera and self-cleaning Xenon lights with cornering function.