Buyers can also specify custom seats with contoured cushions for the utmost in comfort. Powerful bi-xenon headlamps with Active Light System, which have the ability to illuminate around corners, are also available.
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| The larger exterior dimensions of the new M-Class make for a significantly more roomy cabin for all passengers. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press) |
Spaciousness is another area where the M-Class has been improved. Like the current model, it is a five-seater, but the larger exterior dimensions make for a significantly more roomy cabin for all passengers.
Those in back benefit the most, gaining 15 mm (0.6 in.) of legroom, 35 mm (1.4 in.) of knee room and 32 mm (1.3 in.) of elbow room. Cargo room is also up, thanks in part to a more organized load bay. The new M has a total capacity of 883 L (31.2 cu.ft) with the rear seats up, and 2,050 L (72.4 cu.ft) with the 37/63 split-fold rear seats down, an improvement of 30 L (1.1 cu.ft). As for the tailgate, it is electrically operated.
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| Mercedes-Benz is set to raise the bar for the sport utility segment with advancements in passive and active safety. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press) |
As an innovator in safety technology, Mercedes-Benz is set to raise the bar for the sport utility segment with advancements in passive and active safety in the new M-Class. Dual-stage airbags for front passengers, side and curtain airbags and load-limiting seatbelts with pretensioners are standard. Anti-lock brakes with brake assist and electronic stability control system are standard on all models.
The M debuts Mercedes' PRE-SAFE system which actively adjusts the seatbacks of the driver and passenger to the safest position, and tightens the seatbelts, when a collision is imminent.