If these photos of the next-gen Mercedes-Benz M-Class look familiar, it’s because we ran spy photos of the 2006 model last month (Nov. 15). Due in dealer showrooms next spring after its Detroit auto show premiere, the new ML is 5.9 inches longer, 2.8 inches wider and rides on a 114-inch wheelbase (3.7 inches longer) than the outgoing model. The new model comes in two initial configurations, the ML350, powered by a 3.5-liter, 268-hp, 258-lb-ft V6, and the ML500 (shown), which gets a 5.0-liter, 302-hp, 339-lb-ft V8 under its reskinned hood.
The new M-Class comes with a standard seven-speed automatic transmission, height-adjustable AIRMATIC air suspension and an upgraded permanent four-wheel-drive system. A revised traction control system now incorporates functions such as a downhill driving aid and Hill-Start Assist. Underpinning it all is an all-new unibody platform as well as a redesigned suspension.
Inside, the updated interior is marked by a sport-oriented instrument panel and more room for all five seating positions. The 2006 M-Class includes adaptive two-stage airbags for the driver and front passenger, front sidebags and window-bags, as well as belt tensioners and belt force limiters for all seating positions.
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Greg Lake Oswego, Oregon, USA 2006 ML350 - Pewter/Charcoal Alcantara/Aluminum; Packages: Comfort, Lighting, Entertainment, Appearance, Airmatic, Sunroof; Options: Nav, Sirius, hitch, heated seats, power liftgate, roof rack; Mods: ML500 skid plates, ML63 20" wheels. 2001 BMW M3 Coupe (5/01 prod.) - Titanium/Cinnamon w/ many mods.
"Surprise, surprise: the new Mercedes ML is longer and wider than the outgoing model-by 5.9 and 3.8 inches respectively-but doesn't have a third-row seat. It is also a unibody, whereas the outgoing model was body-on-frame. Under the striking sheetmetal, the ML gains new front and rear suspensions, with control arms at the front and a multilink arrangement at the rear. All MLs have a permanent all-wheel-drive system with start assist and a downhill driving aid, but there is now an optional off-road package that incorporates air springs, a two-speed transfer case, and diffs that can lock up to 100 percent between the front and rear axles and between the back wheels. For the U.S., there will be two engines: a 268-hp 3.5-liter V-6 and a 302-hp 5.0-liter V-8, both of which are mated to a seven-speed automatic transmission. The V-6 models are fitted with 17-inch wheels as standard, while the V-8s get 18-inch alloys. There is a full panoply of available safety equipment, including the PRE-SAFE anticipatory occupant protection system and crash responsive head restraints. The interior is noticeably higher quality than the outgoing vehicle's, and noticeably bigger, too: the trunk, especially, is cavernous. The gear selector has now been moved to the steering column, freeing up space in the center console. The new vehicle is due to go on sale late this Spring."
Thanks for the photos. Lots of positives, but two big negatives noted. Cupholders are ugly and no effort made to disguise them at all. Electric control switches for seats still attached to seats rather than on door panel as in the higher priced Mercedes Sedans. This may seem trite, but driving the E Class with the switches on the side door is so much nicer than having to reach down and feel by braille to adust the seating position as I have to every time I enter my M Class. It is something you have to do every time you enter the vehicle so is very noticeable.
Styling? Guess the jury is still out on the comb toothy grill. Would like to see what the grills look like with some of the alternative option packages described in the press release.
Absence of a third seat? My take here is Mercedes was already afraid the M Class was too close to the new G Class so are saving the third seat option to help distinguish it when it comes out next year. It is odd though that the $26,000 Honda Pilot comes with a nifty third seat that folds flat into the floor and the $40,000 M Class can't match it. The Pilot also offers as standard equipment the locking differential feature that is an extra cost option on the M. As others have noted the new M Class is a close styling look-a-like to the Kia Sorrento but in terms of value and quality the Honda Pilot may be more threatening.
Northbenz - 1/13/2005 12:47 AM
...Lots of positives, but two big negatives noted. Cupholders are ugly and no effort made to disguise them at all. Electric control switches for seats still attached to seats rather than on door panel as in the higher priced Mercedes Sedans. This may seem trite, but driving the E Class with the switches on the side door is so much nicer than having to reach down and feel by braille to adust the seating position as I have to every time I enter my M Class. It is something you have to do every time you enter the vehicle so is very noticeable.
Styling? Guess the jury is still out on the comb toothy grill. Would like to see what the grills look like with some of the alternative option packages described in the press release.
Absence of a third seat? My take here is Mercedes was already afraid the M Class was too close to the new G Class so are saving the third seat option to help distinguish it when it comes out next year. It is odd though that the $26,000 Honda Pilot comes with a nifty third seat that folds flat into the floor and the $40,000 M Class can't match it. The Pilot also offers as standard equipment the locking differential feature that is an extra cost option on the M. As others have noted the new M Class is a close styling look-a-like to the Kia Sorrento but in terms of value and quality the Honda Pilot may be more threatening.
1) Agree on cupholders. Would be nice if you could conceal them.
2) With memory seats, I seldom have need to use the seat controls.
3) I believe the silver/chrome grille is on the Appearance and AMG Sport packages only. Standard is probably same but in black.
4) I am glad there is no 3rd seat. Adds weight, takes away cargo space (even with flat folding they take room from somewhere) and I have no need for it. I know many would like it, however.
5) I wish the low range and locking diffs. were standard, but that would raise the base price, as well. I don't think those features are worth the $2,000+ they would cost.
6) Honda Pilot certainly offers utility and value, and may be an option for some. I would never consider it (okay, I'm elitist!). More direct competitors in terms of "luxury" SUVs would be the Land Rover LR3 and Volvo XC90 V8.
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