Inside, all the changes are for the better. Though just marginally wider (71 mm) and longer (150 mm), the new
M-Class cabin feels much bigger than the former model, and rear-seat legroom is much improved. One strange feature, though, is the gear selector, fashioned very much like the unorthodox one found in the BMW 7-Series. Despite driving the vehicle for a week, I never did get completely comfortable with the shifter. I also found it to be a bit of a gas-guzzler.
All in all, though, the new M-Class is just what Herr Doctor ordered. And there's more M-Class news still to come. According to my Mercedes contact, an optional 'off-road' package will be available later this year.
Don't bet against some more AJAC hardware in its future, either.
Specifications (ML350):
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| Inside, all the changes are for the better. (Photo: Mercedes-Benz Canada) |
All in all, though, the new M-Class is just what Herr Doctor ordered. And there's more M-Class news still to come. According to my Mercedes contact, an optional 'off-road' package will be available later this year.
Don't bet against some more AJAC hardware in its future, either.
Specifications (ML350):
- Price Range (MSRP): $55,750 - $86,069
- Body Style: 5-door, unibody SUV
- Configuration: front engine, 4WD
- Engine: 268-hp, 258 lb-ft of torque, 3.5L, 24-valve DOHC V6
- Transmission: 7-speed automatic with manual mode
- Seating Capacity: 5
- Total cargo volume (rear seats upright/folded): 883 / 2,050 L (31.2 / 72.4 cu ft)
- Fuel Economy (city/hwy): 14.6 / 10.6 L/100 km
- Competitors: Audi Q7, BMW X5, Cadillac SRX, Land Rover LR3/Range Rover/Range Rover Sport, Lexus RX330/LX470, Porsche Cayenne, Saab 9-7x, Volkswagen Touareg, Volvo XC90
- Warranty (mo/km): 48/80,000 comprehensive, 60/120,000 powertrain
- Web Site: www.mercedes-benz.ca
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