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:

    Ashtray in the front-compartment center console
    You can remove the ashtray insert and use the resulting compartment for stowage. The stowage space under the ashtray is not heat resistant. Before placing lit cigarettes in the ashtray, ...

    Number of seats
    The specifications shown on the Tire and Loading Information placard in the illustration are examples. The number of seats is vehicle-specific and can differ from the details shown. The numbe ...

    Ride & Handling
    When I first saw the wheels on my test GLK350 — those 20-inch rims and low-profile all-season tires — I was a little worried about how it would ride on Chicago's crater-filled roads. To my surpris ...