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:

    Load index
    In addition to the load bearing index, the load index may also be imprinted on the sidewall of the tire. This specifies the load bearing capacity more precisely. ...

    Normal occupant weight
    The number of occupants the vehicle is designed to seat, multiplied by 68 kilograms (150 lbs). ...

    Belt warning for the driver and frontpassenger
    Regardless of whether the driver and front passenger have fastened their seat belts already, the seat belt warning lamp lights up for 6 seconds after every engine start. It then goes out if the d ...