2006 Mercedes-Benz M-Class Preview

Topping out the range is the ML500 which sports a big-bore 5.0L three-valve-per-cylinder SOHC V8 that produces

The new M has a column-mounted gearshift with steering wheel-mounted buttons to control the manumatic mode during spirited driving. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

302 horsepower. Mercedes is expected to introduce a new generation of advanced V8 engines in 2006, replacing the existing engine with a 410-horsepower 5.0L V8.

All engines, regardless of their specification, are linked to Benz's unique 7G-Tronic seven-speed automatic gearbox. The intelligent transmission can reduce fuel consumption and increase on-road performance by its ability to 'jump' gears while shifting. Rather than using a floor-mounted shifter, the new M has a column-mounted gearshift with steering wheel-mounted buttons to control the manumatic mode during spirited driving.

Inside, the M-Class features a

The new interior is a showcase for Mercedes' latest passenger comfort equipment. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

moderately reworked interior with emphasis on improving ergonomics and quality. Leather-grained, soft-touch plastics replace the shiny, hard-wearing materials used in the old car, while the design is more modern and in sync with the new-wave Mercedes-Benz style, with themes taken from the upcoming R-Class (Vision GST Concept) and the recently revised SLK.

The new interior is also a showcase for Mercedes' latest passenger comfort equipment. Elevating it to the top of the luxury SUV segment is technology such as THERMOTRONIC multi-zone digital climate control, COMAND APS DVD navigation and hi-fi speaker system, PARKTRONIC parking aid and a variety of sumptuous seating surfaces and accent trims.