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:

    Lowering the vehicle
    WARNING Pump up the collapsible spare wheel before lowering the vehicle. You could otherwise damage the wheel rim. Place the ratchet wrench onto the hexagon nut of the jack so that the ...

    Warning and indicator lamps
    Warning and indicator lamps Function 1  ESP®     SPORT handling mode in AMG vehicles 2 Distance warning 3 ESP® OFF 4 Brakes (USA only) 5 Brakes (Canada only) 6 Turn s ...

    Tire tread
    WARNING Although the applicable federal motor vehicle safety laws consider a tire to be worn when the tread wear indicators (TWI) become visible at approximately 1/16 in (1.6 mm), we recomm ...