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:

    PRE-SAFE® (preventative occupant protection)
    WARNING The PRE-SAFE® system reduces the impact of an accident on vehicle occupants, as long as their seat belts have been fastened correctly. Although your vehicle is equipped with a PRESAF ...

    Center console, upper section
    1 Audio system/COMAND; see the separate operating instructions 2 Seat heating 3 Seat ventilation 4 PARKTRONIC 5 Downhill Speed Regulation (vehicles without AIRMATIC package) 6 Hazard war ...

    Tow-starting (emergency enginestarting)
    Vehicles with automatic transmission must not be started by tow-starting. This could otherwise damage the transmission. ...