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:

    RACETIMER
    Displaying and starting RACETIMER WARNING The RACETIMER feature is only for use on roads and in conditions where high speed driving is permitted. Racing on public roads is prohibited under ...

    Cargo Room
    As is the case in many large SUVs, despite having room for seven people in its three rows, the GL leaves little room for luggage when all its seats are in use; there's just 14.3 cubic feet behind ...

    Belt warning for the driver and front passenger
    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 t ...