The ML430 with a 4.3 litre V8 is the top model, from au94.5K.
Replaced by the ML500 for the 2002 model year.

The ML320 has a 3.2 litre V6, first released in 1998, from au65.9K.

The ML270 CDI diesel released in 2000, from au60.9K.

2002 September: Modified trim, bumpers, window airbags for model year 2002.

2001 late: ML500 to replace ML430 for 2002.

2001 January: ML55 AMG released in .au.

2000 November: The Electronic Traction System (4ETS) was upgraded. An "intelligent brake force booster" is said to build pressure faster and to react more quickly to wheel spin. It also operates in low range if brake and accelerator are both depressed to assist in starts on very steep hills. 4ETS can now also cause the car to descend steep hills at a constant speed in low range (in the style of Land Rover's hill descent control).