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:

    Opening and closing
    Overhead control panel To open To open To close Turn the SmartKey to position 1 or 2 in the ignition lock. Press or pull the switch in the corresponding direction. If you press ...

    Braking
    If ABS intervenes when braking, you will feel a pulsing in the brake pedal. •► If ABS intervenes: continue to depress the brake pedal with force until the braking situation is over. • ...

    Driving downhill
    - Drive slowly. - Do not drive at an angle down steep inclines. Steer into the line of fall and drive with the front wheels aligned straight. Otherwise, the vehicle could slip sideways, tip an ...