NEXT-GENERATION MERCEDES-BENZ M-CLASS PHOTOS RELEASED
New-Generation Sport Utility to Make World Premiere at Detroit Show
The first official photographs were released of the next-generation M-Class, which will make its retail debut in the U.S. in spring 2005. The all-new 2006 M-Class is characterized by an aggressive wedge shape complemented by sweeping front fenders with projector beam headlights, dramatic shoulder lines and a sharply angled windshield. The interior is completely redesigned to provide more comfort and more user-friendly space.
When the Mercedes-Benz M-Class first arrived seven years ago, the new sport utility vehicle started a trend that inspired the entire auto industry to shift toward more car-like SUVs. Virtually the only sport utility at the time with four-wheel independent suspension, the original M-Class was one of the first to be designed from the ground up, rather than being based on an existing platform. The first-generation M-Class also won an impressive number of auto industry awards, including the prestigious North American Truck of the Year.
Sales to Begin in Spring 2005
Scheduled to make its world premiere at the North American International Auto Show in January 2005 and go on sale in the U.S. in the spring, the new sport utility is 5.9 inches longer, 2.8 inches wider and 0.4 inches lower on the road than its predecessor, with a 114-inch wheelbase that’s 3.7 inches longer as well. Beneath the aerodynamic exterior is an all-new unibody platform as well as redesigned suspension that delivers a new level of on-road driving performance and comfort.
New and useful technology abounds in the 2006 M-Class, including a standard seven-speed automatic transmission, an even more effective full-time four-wheel-drive system and optional features such as height-adjustable AIRMATIC air suspension. A revised four-wheel traction control system now incorporates functions such as a downhill driving aid and Hill-Start Assist.
The new generation M-Class will be available with two powerful new engines. The ML350 is powered by an all-new 3.5-liter, four-valve-per-cylinder V6 engine delivering 268-horsepower and 258-lb.ft. of torque. Under the hood of the ML500 is a 5.0-liter V8 engine with 302-horsepower and 339-lb.ft. of torque.
Inside, a completely new interior is marked by a sport-oriented instrument panel, a multi-function steering wheel, rich interior materials and significantly improved spaciousness for all five seating positions.
By comparison, there’s over two inches of additional front leg room, and rear-passenger knee and leg room have also been increased by 1.4 inches and 1.3-inches respectively.
Continuing the Mercedes-Benz commitment to occupant safety, the 2006 M-Class will mark the debut of a new active head restraint system that provides increased protection in the event of a rear collision. The new M-Class also includes adaptive two-stage airbags for the driver and front passenger, curtain side airbags and belt tensioners and belt force limiters for all seating positions.
The new M-Class sport utility is being built at the Mercedes-Benz plant in Tuscaloosa, Alabama.
