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:

    Transmission positions
    Park position Do not shift the transmission into position P() unless the vehicle is stationary. The parking lock should not be used as a brake when parking. In addition to engaging the parking ...

    Engine oil viscosity
    Viscosity describes the flow characteristics of a fluid. If an engine oil has a high viscosity, this means that it is thick; a low viscosity means that it is thin. Select an engine oil with an ...

    Calling up the range
    ► Press on the steering wheel to select the trip computer menu. ► Press to select Range:. The multifunction display shows the estimated range of the vehicle, based on the curren ...