Although it will continue to be produced in Vance, Alabama, the 2012 Mercedes-Benz M-Class was unveiled today at the automaker’s headquarters in Stuttgart, Germany.
The third generation M-Class, which will go on sale in September in North America, might look like an evolution of the last two generations, but the German automaker promises us that it’s all new underneath.
Developed in Germany and the United States, the M-Class was tested off road extensively in Namibia because, in the words of Mercedes-Benz Vice President of Project Management Dr. Uwe Ernstberger, the automaker’s customers “expect to have everything.”
Regardless, most M-Classes sold will undoubtedly remain on the pavement.
Two for now
Initially, Mercedes-Benz will sell the M-Class in North America in two configurations, the V6-powered ML350 in both gasoline and BlueTEC turbodiesel variants. Later, a 4.6-liter V8 will arrive – likely as a 2013 model.
The three-pointed star brand’s 4Matic all-wheel-drive will be standard for 2012, although a rear-wheel-drive variant will also follow at a later date for sunbelt states.
With a 3.5-liter V6, gas models now put out 302 horsepower and 273 lb-ft. of torque (from 268 horsepower and 258 lb-ft.), although Mercedes-Benz estimates that fuel economy will be up substantially to 17 mpg in the city and 22 mpg on the highway (compared to 15/20).
Diesel models are also more efficient and powerful, with their 3.0-liter units cranking out 240 horsepower and 455 lb-ft. of torque, increases of 30 ponies and 55 lb-ft., respectively. The automaker says that fuel economy should check in at 20/25, up from 18/25. Like the current model, the BlueTEC will be certified for sale in all 50 states.
A new seven-speed automatic transmission with a more efficient torque converter also helps make the best of both V6s.
An air suspension system is optionally available, which aids both on and off-road use. Packaged with the air suspension, a new Active Curve System helps negate body roll by tightening up the anti-roll bars in heavy cornering.
Design upgrades
The look might seem derivative at first, harking back in many ways to the original M-Class first offered in 1997.
A front fascia inspired by Mercedes-Benz’s latest design language, with a jutting-out grille and swept-back headlamps, is the biggest visual indicator of the car’s newness. From the side, the M is more angular and blacked-out D-pillars contribute to a more modern appearance. From the rear, the tail lamps are almost car-like, which gives the M-Class the appearance that it is smaller than it is.
Inside, Mercedes-Benz designers have given the new crossover a more upscale interior than ever before. The center stack sits up high with the automaker’s latest switchgear. The gear lever remains on the steering column, which frees up more central console space for a wide and flexible storage bin.
Rear seat riders are treated to more room and plusher accommodations as well.
Eucalyptus wood trim is standard, but Mercedes-Benz will also offer interior upgrades like leather-like covering for the dashboard and various trims including dark poplar wood, aluminum and matte-finish ash wood.
Safety continues to remain a focus with a more robust architecture designed to reduce impact intrusion into the cabin. All models also include nine airbags and Mercedes-Benz’s full complement of driver aids like Pre-Safe, which prepares the vehicle for an impending collision, Attention Assist, which helps keep drivers more alert and other various laser-based systems.
Nitty-gritty
Look for prices to be announced in August just before the 2012 M-Class goes on sale. Well-equipped even in base configurations, both the gas and diesel models will be available with plenty of options.
A Premium 1 Package adds a rearview camera, power-folding exterior mirrors and Mercedes’ COMAND navigation system. The Premium 2 upgrade adds heated and cooled cupholders, a harman/kardon audio system and a few other items.
Enthusiasts should note the Dynamic Handling Package, which adds the air suspension and Active Curve System, as well as 20-inch alloy wheels.
The Off Road Package, meanwhile, includes a two-speed transfer case and the air suspension for certain markets.
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