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:

    Setting the center vents in the rear compartment
    1 Rear-compartment air vent, left 2 Rear-compartment air vent, right 3 Rear-compartment air vent thumbwheel, right 4 Rear control panel for automatic climate control 5 Rear-compartment a ...

    Upshifting
    Vehicles with the dynamic handling package: if the maximum engine speed for the shift range is reached and you continue to accelerate, the automatic transmission shifts up, except when manu ...

    Ride & Handling
    The M-Class evokes the S-Class' driving experience in a few ways. For one, it feels especially substantial and planted when cruising on the highway, enhancing driver confidence and lowering drivin ...