Mercedes-Benz ML-Class spy pics
November 2, 2009 by Matt Brogan
Earlier today our spy photographers caught the all-new Mercedes M-class during a first test-drive close to the firm’s headquarters. The car won’t make it to the dealers before the second half of 2011 – and here we have shots of the new SUV in full glory!
Judging from these exclusive spy-pictures, the new ML won’t get longer front and rear overhangs and even the wheelbase doesn’t appear to be stretched compared to the current model. In fact, the new M-class might be a few inches shorter than today’s ML. Whatever the dimensions will be, for efficiency reasons weight is definitely going to be reduced.
Though not many changes over the current model can be seen at first glance, closer inspection reveals that all parts are slightly different. Most visible this is at the rear door, the side mirrors, the position of the door handles, the roof rack and the higher rear window.
Under the bonnet, we expect a similar range of engines powering today’s car, including petrol engines between 3.5 and 6.2 litres (202 and 380kW) and consumption-optimised diesel units with 3.0 and 4.0 litres and an output between 141 and 228kW. We do, however, as well expect Mercedes to offer the new ML with a standard or plug-in hybrid right from the start.
Print it: 
Wow I can’t believe how backwards this vehicle looks. Its like they’ve decided to make a perfectly good looking SUV narrow and boxy…
Perhaps the camouflage and tiny wheels are attempting to convey this idea so when it is unveiled people will be pleasantly surprised.
If anything, I think Merc would be emphasising more of a sporty character in this new model to try compete with the X5 as the current ML isn’t as dynamically capable as the X5.
I cant wait till people realise how pointless Luxury Sports Barges, sorry, “SUV’s” are.
If you want to go offroad, buy a 90’s Patrol
If you want to carry the family comfortably, by an Odyssey.
If you want to have a luxurious car, dont have kids and buy a 5-series or E-Class
If you want to do it all, dump the E-class, order the leather on the Odyssey and find a Patrol. Or maybe a Pajero Exceed?
At least the older models had real 4WD ability… though the prices made this pointless, who the hell would take that multi-thousand dollar paintjob and even more expensive over-sized set of rims on a narrow rutted track?
These new ones are TOTALLY pointless. Theyre simply more respectable than a people-mover, and so people buy them if they can afford the petrol. Ridiculous.
“If you want to go offroad, buy a 90’s Patrol
If you want to carry the family comfortably, by an Odyssey.
If you want to have a luxurious car, dont have kids and buy a 5-series or E-Class”
How naive of you. Luxury 4WD’s combine all three of the abilities that you mentioned, in one neat desirable package. You have no right to abuse the people that buy these cars if they can afford them, and if you don’t own one or have driven one! And another thing, the best thing about these modern all rounders is that they can do all these duties effortlessly. So even if the buyers don’t take these cars offroad (90% don’t), at least they still can if they want to. And carry the kids. And have a luxurious interior. And tow a camper. Which is more than any of the cars you mentioned. Maybe if you put in some effort and earned enough money, you too could come to realise what benefits these cars give. Otherwise don’t complain about something you know nothing about.
I like them, but I dont really see the point.
Would YOU take an X5 off-road?
Although you have a point with pricing. A V8 M-Class seems to cost less than a V8 E-class, and you get a higher seating position.
I still think a luxurious people mover, like the R-Class, is a better car… people just have a stigma associated with having a people mover.