Ride & Handling
The M-Class evokes the S-Class' driving experience in a few ways. For one, it feels especially substantial and planted when cruising on the highway, enhancing driver confidence and lowering driving effort. In tighter confines, like when pulling into a parking garage, the M-Class feels wide, and I found myself creeping forward gingerly.
Then there's the steering: The optional wood and leather steering wheel spins with a well-oiled smoothness and enough power assistance to kill any hopes of steering feedback. This kind of isolating driving experience is something Mercedes has perfected, so if this is what you're looking for, the M-Class delivers.
Our test car had Mercedes' optional Airmatic air suspension, which offers Comfort and Sport modes. The difference between the two is subtle. Sport lowers the SUV and firms up the ride, which makes it feel like someone stole the gel inserts out of your shoes; you feel small bumps in the road that the Comfort setting had soaked up.
The M-Class' brake-pedal feel is not as direct and linear as it should be. At times, it feels like there's a giant block of foam between the bottom of your foot and the brake pedal.
See also:
Correct use of the seat belts
WARNING
USE SEAT BELTS PROPERLY
• Seat belts can only work when used
properly. Never wear seat belts in any other
way than as described in this section, as
that could result in serious injur ...
Full-Size SUVs Aren't What They Used to Be
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be surprised by how far this vehicle class has come in terms of ride comfort and
handling poise. A decade ago, full-si ...
Connection options
Overview
You will find the connection sockets in the
glove box.
Device-specific adapter cables are required
to connect external devices to the Media
Interface. These cables are included in the ...