Two separate orientation packages are available. For vehicles that will be driven primarily in urban areas, the suspension system can be linked with Benz's Adaptive Damping System (ADS) which constantly adjusts its stiffness to provide new levels of comfort and on-road driving performance.
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| Two versions of the new M will be offered, a more urban suited setup and a a special Off-Road package. (Photo: Mercedes-Benz Canada) |
For those who will take their Ms off the beaten path, a special Off-Road package can be specified. With this package, the SUV can be raised by 111 mm (4.4 in.) for a total ground clearance of 291 mm (11.5 in.). This allows the new M to ford water as deep as 600 mm (23.6 in.), impressive for a vehicle with an on-road pedigree.
Other features of the Off-Road package include a two-speed transfer case and selectable locking differentials - both of which are in addition to the standard permanent all-wheel drive system and 4ETS traction control system.
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| Four engine choices will available to buyers, two diesel and two gasoline-powered. (Photo: Mercedes-Benz Canada) |
There will be four engines available to buyers, two each diesel and gasoline-powered. Not offered on the first generation M, the pair of common-rail turbodiesels are the ML280 CDI with 190 hp and 325 lb-ft of torque, and the ML320 CDI with 224 hp and 376 lb-ft of torque. Both are said to average 30.1 mpg.
Base gasoline-powered M-Classes (ML350) feature Mercedes' all-new 3.5L four-valve-per-cylinder DOHC V6 with 268 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, which has replaced the old 3.2L, 220-hp motor.