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:

    Hill start assist
    Hill start assist helps you when pulling away forwards or in reverse on an uphill gradient. It holds the vehicle for a short time after you have removed your foot from the brake pedal. This give ...

    Summer tires
     - Optionally, tires with a maximum speed of over 149 mph (240 km/h) may have "ZR" in the size description depending on the manufacturer (e.g. 245/40 ZR 18). The service specif ...

    Checking tire pressure electronically
    – Make sure that the SmartKey is in position 2 in the ignition lock. – Press the or button on the steering wheel to select the Serv. menu. – Press the or button to select Tire Pressure. ...