Under the Hood

The ML350 carries a 232-hp, 3.7-liter V-6 engine, while the ML500 comes with a 288-hp, 5.0-liter V-8. Both models use a five-speed-automatic transmission with a manual shift gate. The permanently engaged four-wheel-drive system has a Low-range gear setting, and it distributes power among the four wheels as needed to maintain traction. Unlike its X5 and RX 330 rivals, Mercedes insists that the M-Class is a true offroad vehicle.

    See also:

    Engaging reverse gear R
    Only shift the automatic transmission to R when the vehicle is stationary. •► When the vehicle is stationary, depress the brake pedal. •► Push the DIRECT SELECT lever up past the f ...

    Seat belt adjustment
    The seat-belt adjustment function adjusts the driver's and front-passenger seat belt to the upper body of the occupants. The belt strap is tightened slightly when: • you engage the belt tongue i ...

    Tread wear
    The tread wear grade is a comparative rating based on the wear rate of the tire when tested under controlled conditions on a specified U.S. Government test course. For example, a tire graded 1 ...