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Interior of the New M-Class

A look at the interior design immediately demonstrates the way the authentic SUV experience is combined with the sense of comfort inherent in a premium Mercedes-Benz sedan. While the expressive design of the center stack embodies the power of an SUV, the gentle downward curve of the dashboard on the front passenger side gives a sense of spaciousness, thus emphasizing the vehicle's comfort. The roomy and well-lit interior offers noticeably more elbow room than its predecessor (1.34 inches more in the front, .98 inches in the rear). An eye-catching feature of the instrument panel is large decorative wood trim that is continued along the doors in a seamless wrap-around effect. These generously proportioned trim elements, in a three-dimensional design, are available in four high-quality wood finishes, or in aluminum. The interior of the new Mercedes-Benz M-Class can thus be appointed to reflect either exclusive refinement or sporty sophistication, according to the customer's taste. The door handles and seat adjustment switches have been inset with precision craftsmanship into the side trim. The door center panels feature distinctive decorative stitching, with a separate, exclusive look for the optional Sports package.

The state-of-the-art instrument cluster with its two clear and easy to read round dials and a large, 4.5 in display between them, impresses with the high-quality look of its design. Dominating the center of the dashboard is the large screen for the COMAND system. The control and display concept was developed specifically with user-friendly operation in mind. In the M-Class, Mercedes- Benz is introducing an advanced ergonomic concept that will find its way into all future new models. Just one element of this is the improved accessibility of the turn signal stalk on the steering column. All control levers can now be clearly seen. The cruise control lever has been moved to the lower position.

Infotainment, navigation and communication systems are intuitive and easy to operate using the metal Central Controller located on the center console. Vertical rectangular air vents on either side of the large screen serve to emphasize the more functional aspects of the SUV. The outer air vents are the same shape but in this case horizontally positioned, thus giving added design flair. The center console incorporates an armrest with integrated handrest, in front of which is located the Central Controller and various switches.

The seats in the 2012 M-Class are designed to provide a high level of comfort on long journeys as well as excellent lateral support. All important parameters can be electrically adjusted. These include the adjustment of seat height, backrest rake, seat cushion angle and reach. Generous seat adjustment travel of more than 13.75 inches lengthways and more than 3.5 inches in height ensure that M-Class drivers will always find the ideal seating position.

A high level of variability characterizes the rear seats, which are fitted with an armrest and cupholder. The backrest angle adjustment on the rear seats is new, as is the optional through-loading feature above the armrest for the transport of skis. Folding both backrests as well as the seat cushions forward creates a level load compartment with a capacity of 71 cubic ft. up to the roof liner.

Three colors are available for the interior appointments: black, almond beige and grey. In conjunction with the Sport Interior package, the combination of DINAMICA microfiber and black M-B TEX man-made leather, or premium leather and black two-tone leather is also available.

High Efficiency Diesel Engine in the ML350 BlueTEC

State-of-the-art engines and a comprehensive range of fuel efficiency measures all contribute to delivering superb energy efficiency. BlueTEC diesel engines and the new generation of BlueDIRECT gasoline engines provide the starting point for the excellent efficiency of the new M-Class.

The ML350 BlueTEC uses a completely reworked 3.0-liter V6 engine, which meets emissions standards in all 50 states and delivers far better performance, yet with considerably reduced fuel consumption. The efficiency improvements have been achieved, above all, through the use of the innovative TWAS (twinwire- arc spraying) technology - in use since 2005 in AMG's successful high-performance engines. The process reduces internal friction in the engine significantly. At the same time, the weight has been reduced by 9.5 lbs., as there is no longer any need for the grey cast iron cylinder liners that, until now, had to be pressed into the engine block. The benefits are striking: with these measures alone, fuel consumption could be reduced by around 3 percent.

Excellent Comfort and Driving Dynamics

A high level of comfort, aggressive on- and off-road handling are part of the standard equipment on the new M-Class. For the first time, the steel suspension of the M-Class chassis now includes AGILITY CONTROL adaptive damping. During normal driving on only moderately uneven roads or during slow off-road driving, the system responds with a soft ride that enhances the occupants' comfort as well as the car's off-road capability. In order to maintain this sense of comfort during hard driving or abrupt evasive maneuvers, the shock absorbers become firmer, ensuring a high level of driving stability. The M-Class driver is supported by an electromechanical steering system that provides the optimum level of power assistance to suit the particular driving condition. Parking or maneuvering off-road is made easier thanks to maximum power assistance. The SUV also features the tightest turning circle in its market segment, with a 180-degree turn negotiated within a circle diameter of just 38.7 feet. At higher speeds, the power assistance is reduced to improve SUV's handling.

For those who want to venture off paved roads, the 2012 ML350 BlueTEC 4Matic and 2012 ML350 4Matic feature comprehensive traction systems as part of their standard equipment, including the permanent 4Matic all-wheel drive system and the electronic traction control system ETS, as well as an off-road button that activates a special off-road transmission mode.

* To improve traction, the slip thresholds and shift points of the autoMatic transmission have been raised
* A flatter accelerator pedal curve improves the sensitivity with which the driver can accelerate
* Off-road ABS provides optimum braking on a loose surface

Hill Start Assist and the HOLD function are further features that help the driver pull away on a slope. Downhill Speed Regulation, or DSR, enables the M-Class to autoMatically maintain the speed set via the cruise control lever.

ON&OFFROAD Package

The ON&OFFROAD package for the new M-Class (available next year in the U.S.) uses a range of six transmission modes to optimize driving dynamics and handling safety, by ensuring that the necessary drive control is available to cope with the very different driving conditions on and off-road. One autoMatic mode, two dedicated off-road modes and three on-road modes are available.

The system is controlled via a rotary knob on the center console. The settings for AIRMatic, and the powertrain, are adapted to accommodate these specific requirements. The six transmission modes in detail:

* AutoMatic - covers most everyday driving operations
* Offroad 1 - light terrain, dirt roads and tracks
* Offroad 2 - challenging off-road terrain with hilly stretches
* Winter - for driving in wintry conditions on slippery roads, on snow, ice or with snow chains
* Sport - more adventurous, aggressive driving on winding roads
* Trailer - optimizes acceleration, maneuvering and braking with a trailer

Despite so many options, the setting is made intuitively, and the program selected is shown in the multifunction display as well as in very realistic, almost photo-quality imagery on the screen of the COMAND system. Irrespective of which underlying program is set, the gear reduction, lock, DSR or the self-leveling suspension of the AIRMatic system can all be adjusted individually. As with the basic settings of the ON&OFFROAD package, it is practically impossible for the driver to make mistakes. Conflicting settings, which might have a negative impact on handling, safety or traction, are ruled out. If there is any doubt, the system will revert to autoMatic mode.

In terms of "hardware", the ON&OFFROAD package consists of a skid plate, a two-stage transfer case with reduction gear, a longitudinal differential (lowrange) lock and enhanced AIRMatic functionality that allows a maximum ground clearance of 11.2 inches and a fording depth of 23.6 inches.

Entertainment and Information

The new M-Class comes standard with a new audio headunit with a 7-inch color display, Bluetooth audio streaming and telephony, phonebook download, 6-disc CD/DVD/MP3/ AM/FM /weatherband radio, HD Radio, album cover art, auxiliary input and USB port.

As part of the optional Premium 1 package, customers receive hard-drive based navigation, SIRIUS traffic & weather, 3D city models, intermediate navigation destinations, and area avoidance.

Model Range in the US

At market launch of the 2012 M-Class, there will be two models available in the U.S. The ML350 BlueTEC 4Matic delivers an output of 240 hp and 455 lb-ft of torque, with an estimated fuel consumption of 20 city 25 highway. With 302 hp and 273 lb-ft of torque, the gasoline-engine ML350 4Matic has an estimated fuel economy of 17/22 mpg.

Mercedes-Benz ML350 BlueTEC 4Matic: Photo Gallery, Review (1/2) and Specifications