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.

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    Automatic transmission
    •► Shift the transmission to position P. The transmission position display in the multifunction display shows P. You can also start the engine when the transmission is in position N. ...

    Cabin Quality
    If the cockpit in a Cadillac Escalade or Infiniti QX56 feels like a roomy lounge, the GL550's cabin is eminently more carlike. Don't expect massive armrests and a tall dashboard — rather, the wrap ...

    Opening and closing the side windows
    1. Front left 2. Front right 3. Rear right 4. Rear left The switches for all side windows are located on the driver's door. There is also a switch on each door for the corresponding ...