Now fitted with the three-pointed star's superb 285 kW V8 petrol engine, the ML 500 moves to a new level of refinement, producing more power and more torque whilst consuming less fuel.

The 5.5-litre power unit in the ML 500 boats impressive figures. Compared to the outgoing 5.0-litre engine, this new V8 engine brings a power increase of 60 kW with torque climbing 15 percent from 460 Nm to 530 Nm.

Partnered to Mercedes-Benz's 7G-TRONIC seven-speed automatic transmission, performance is swift, with a 0-100 km/h time of 5.8 seconds and top speed of 210 km/h (limited).

Impressively, fuel consumption is further optimised in the ML 500, which now has a combined-cycle fuel consumption rate of 12.9 litres per 100 km travelled (down from 13.4 litres with the previous 225 kW engine).

The power upgrade for the ML 500 neatly matches its driving dynamics and luxurious comfort.

The on-road capabilities of the M-Class are based on a geometrically-optimised double-wishbone suspension system which provides anti-dive control and torsion-bar stabilisation. Driving dynamics are further enhanced by the addition of AIRMATIC air suspension, fitted as standard equipment in the ML 500 and ML 63 AMG. AIRMATIC optimises ride comfort and dynamic cornering with its level control function and Adaptive Damping System (ADS).

AIRMATIC is optionally available for the petrol and diesel V6-powered M-Class models: the ML 280 CDI, the ML 350 and the ML 320 CDI.

Not only is its on-road performance the envy of competitors, its off-road strengths are obvious when tackling rough terrain.

The 4MATIC all-wheel drive system in the M-Class range offers grip and confidence on a variety of road surfaces, and provides large reserves of traction in slippery surface conditions through the combination of both its 4ETS traction system and Mercedes-Benz's Electronic Stability Programme ESP®.

When it comes to challenging off-road situations, including extreme terrain, specifying the optionally available Off-Road Pro engineering package* will allow drivers to take the M-Class to another level. With two manually-selectable differential locks (offering 100% lock-up), a two-speed transfer case with low-range gearing and a reinforced rear-axle differential, the Off-Road Pro engineering package lets drivers conquer the most rugged of terrain in Mercedes luxury. All at the push of a button.

Leading-edge safety in the M-Class range is underpinned by a vast array of Mercedes-Benz technology. The complete model range boasts an extensive catalogue of active and passive safety equipment as standard fitment, including ABS anti-lock brakes, ESP® Electronic Stability Programme, BAS brake assist system, eight airbags, NECK-PRO head restraints and the marque's clever PRE-SAFE® anticipatory occupant protection system.

The M-Class was the first car in its class to offer this potentially life-saving technology. PRE-SAFE® can detect an imminent collision before it occurs and then take necessary steps to prepare the car and its occupants for any impact. Not only has it won seven awards in just three years, it has demonstrated its value on roads around the world since its debut in 2002.

With its impressive handling and comfort, along with an available luggage capacity of up to 2,050 litres, smooth styling and generous cabin space, the M-Class luxury SUV range has been a popular choice with Australian buyers. More than 18,000 M-Class SUVs have been sold in Australia since 1998.

The Mercedes-Benz M-Class Range