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The New Mercedes-Benz M-Class

2006 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
2006 Mercedes-Benz M-Class

6th September, 2005


It's time for round two for the Mercedes-Benz M-Class!

With state-of-the-art technology such as two powerful new engines, the seven-speed automatic transmission 7G-TRONIC fitted as standard, the now even more effective four-wheel drive system 4-ETS, AIRMATIC air suspension and the anticipatory occupant protection system PRE-SAFE®, the M-Class is set to do battle against the many competitors (for example the highly desirable Volkswagen Touareg and the highly competitive Land Rover Discovery 3, the Range Rover Sport and the Range Rover Vogue). Following its premiere at the 2005 Detroit Motor Show, the new M-Class is now ready for its introduction to the Australian market this month.

You need look no further than the design of the new M-Class, with its blend of strongly contoured surfaces and taut lines, to see the character of the second-generation M-Class. The swept-back windscreen, striking front mudguards and rising shoulderline of the new car set the unashamedly sporting tone, a theme developed by the proportions of the body: the new M-Class is 150 mm longer (now 4780 mm), 71 mm wider (now 1911 mm) and 5 mm lower (now 1815 mm with roof rails) than its predecessor. The wheelbase has grown by 95 mm to 2915 mm.

Two of the three engines available for the 2006 model are new and outstrip the output and torque of the power units for the outgoing model to the tune of up to 38 percent. Cutting-edge drive-system technology and impressive aerodynamics (the Cd value is down to 0.34 from the previous 0.40) combine to reduce fuel consumption by as much as ten per cent.

A new V6 diesel engine, available in the form of the ML 320 CDI, is celebrating its premiere. It features third-generation common-rail direct injection and the latest in piezo injectors. The unit delivers 165 kW and places a maximum torque of 510 Newton metres on tap from 1,600 rpm. The diesel model burns just 9.4 litres of fuel per 100 kilometres (combined consumption), making the new M-Class one of the most economical off-roaders in its class. Another new arrival is the V6 petrol unit powering the ML 350, with 200 kW and a maximum torque of 350 Newton metres. The engine range is headed by the eight-cylinder unit in the ML 500, which now has an output of 225 kW.

The unique seven-speed automatic transmission 7G-TRONIC is fitted as standard in all variants of the new M-Class. Intelligent shift management allows the transmission to make optimum use of the engine’s enviable reserves of power, while making a major contribution to fuel economy. The 7G-TRONIC can now be operated electronically using a gearshift lever positioned close to the steering wheel, a new system which Mercedes-Benz calls DIRECT SELECT. Additional steering- wheel gearshift buttons enable the driver to glide manually through the seven gears.

Ready for rough terrain: the off-road package with AIRMATIC

Mercedes-Benz has taken the permanent four-wheel drive and 4ETS traction systems to the next level by incorporating additional functions such as Downhill Speed Regulation, Start-Off Assist and the off-road ABS system. The M-Class can be ordered with two different variants of the four-wheel drive system, allowing it to meet the varying requirements of off-road drivers: in addition to the basic version, the new Off-Road Pro engineering package is optionally available; it enables the M-Class to master even the toughest routes across rough terrain. Its primary features include a two-speed transfer case with an off-road ratio, manually or automatically selectable differential locks (100 percent) between the front and rear axle and on the rear axle, and a modified version of the AIRMATIC air suspension system tailored to off-road driving, which can raise the ground clearance by 110 mm to as much as 291 millimetres and the vehicle’s fording depth to a maximum of 600 millimetres.

The air suspension also significantly improves ride comfort, which is why Mercedes-Benz offers a road-going version of this technology as an option. AIRMATIC teams up as standard with the Adaptive Damping System (ADS), which adjusts shock absorber response to suit the current driving situation. All this accelerates the M-Class into a new dimension in driving dynamics and ride comfort.

Mercedes engineers have also redeveloped the front and rear suspension of the M-Class: the double-wishbone front suspension makes a significant contribution to reduced road roar and tyre vibration, ensuring impressive driving dynamics with its raised aluminium wishbones. The new rear axle has a four-link suspension system.

Standard-fitted light-alloy wheels and wide 235/65 R 17 (V6 models) or 255/55 R 18 (V8 model) tyres emphasise the sporting pedigree of the new M-Class.

A new era in safety: PRE-SAFE® makes its debut in this vehicle class

The Mercedes-Benz M-Class also sets the pace for other off-roaders in terms of safety. Its occupant protection system is underpinned by a self-supporting body structure with large deformation zones in the front and rear ends, and a wealth of state-of-the-art technology from the luxury class as standard. This includes adaptive, two-stage airbags for the driver and front passenger, front and rear sidebags and windowbags, as well as belt tensioners and belt force limiters for all seats. In the event of a rear-end collision, the newly developed NECK-PRO crash-responsive head restraints provide additional protection for the driver and front passenger.

With the option of adding the anticipatory occupant protection system PRE-SAFE® to the mix, the new M-Class raises the bar in its class. This multi-award-winning technology provides a reflex response to critical driving situations where an accident threatens to occur, preparing the car and its occupants for an impending collision. PRE-SAFE® acts in advance to pull the driver and front passenger seat belts taut, bring the fore/aft setting and the cushion and backrest angle of the electrically adjustable front passenger seat (optional) into a more favourable position and close the sunroof (optional) if there is a risk of the vehicle rolling over.

It is by forming an unparalleled synergy of active and passive safety that PRE SAFE® can prepare the car and its occupants for a possible impact. The system is linked to the anti-lock braking system (ABS), Brake Assist and the Electronic Stability Programme (ESPÒ), whose sensors identify dangerous driving manoeuvres. Mercedes-Benz also uses these data for anticipatory occupant protection.

The new M-Class also boasts long-term quality – another Mercedes hallmark. The fully galvanised body is given extra protection from corrosion by means of an organic coating at specific points. Structural areas subjected to high stresses are cavity-sealed, and folds are seam-sealed. Large plastic underbody panels eliminate the necessity for conventional PVC undersealing.

Part of the standard specification for the M-Class is a new type of paint finish employing nano-technology, which made its series-production debut in Mercedes-Benz vehicles. Offering significantly improved scratch resistance compared to conventional non-metallic or metallic paint finishes, nano-particle clearcoat provides a noticeably enhanced sheen.

On a par with the luxury class: greater comfort and more space

The interior of the new M-Class also exhibits typical Mercedes quality, thanks to higher-quality materials, more pleasant touch and feel characteristics and significantly improved spaciousness for all the vehicle’s passengers. For example, at 880 mm, the distance between the front and rear seats is 15 mm greater than that in the outgoing model, achieving a level more familiar in a luxury-class saloon. Knee-room for the rear passengers has been increased by 35 mm and elbow width by 32 mm.

M-Class customers can select the seats for their new Off-Roader to suit their personal comfort requirements. In addition to the standard-fitted front seats with electrically adjustable height, backrest and cushion angle, sports seats with specially contoured backrests can also be specified.

Up to 2050 litres of load capacity offers ample space for luggage and sports equipment

The cushions and backrests of the rear seats are split 60:40 and can be folded down. Removable cushions can be ordered as an option, providing a level loading surface stretching 2.10 metres in length through the rear of the car. The maximum load capacity is 2050 litres (VDA measuring method), significantly more than comparable competitors.

The proven EASY-PACK system makes the boot area of the M-Class easier to load and unload. Among other features, it can be optionally supplied with an electrically operated tailgate and a package designed to secure items safely in the load area.

State-of-the-art support systems familiar from the luxury-class Mercedes models help to relieve driver stress, enhance comfort and further improve safety. The M Class is optionally available with the newly developed multi-zone THERMOTRONIC automatic climate control system (standard on ML 500) and the COMAND APS control and display system with DVD navigation. Bi-xenon headlamps with the Active Light System and cornering light function (optional) enhance driving safety during the hours of darkness.

The story began in 1997

A total of over 620,000 drivers around the world have so far opted for the original M-Class, including over 13,000 in Australia. And the arrival of the second-generation M-Class this month is set to open a new chapter in this automotive story.

Prices

Recommended retail prices for the new Mercedes M-Class range from $79,900 up to $116,900. The individual models are priced as follows:

ML 350
$79,900
ML 320 CDI
$82,900
ML 500
$116,900

Additional vehicles packages include:

Luxury Package $8,000 (Standard on ML 500)
Chrome Package $1,500 (Standard on ML 500)
Sports Package $9,980 (Free of charge on ML 500)
Off-Road Styling Package $1,000
Off-Road Pro-Engineering Package $4,900 (for ML 500)
  $10,150 incl. AIRMATIC (for V6 models)




Technical highlights of the new M-Class*

7G-TRONIC seven-speed automatic transmission:
The world’s first and only automatic car transmission with seven speeds works as a team with all the engines in the new M?Class.
Standard
Active Light System: The headlamps follow the steering movements of the driver. Optional in conjunction with bi-xenon headlamps
Adaptive front airbags: The front-airbags are activated in two stages according to accident severity. Standard
AIRMATIC package: The air suspension system improves on-road comfort and is also available in a special off-road configuration. The Adaptive Damping System is also included in the package. Optional
(standard in the ML 500)
Belt force limiters: This technology reduces the belt forces acting on the occupants during a crash. The front-seat occupants have the benefit of adaptive belt force limiters. Standard
Belt tensioners: Any slack in the seat belt is immediately taken up during a crash. Standard for all seats
Bi-xenon headlamps: Gas-discharge lamps for main and low beam improve driving safety at night. Optional
COMAND APS: This system integrates the operation of the radio, DVD navigation and telephone. Optional
(standard in the ML 500)
Cornering light function: More safety at road junctions and on tight bends. Standard in conjunction with bi-xenon headlamps
Crash boxes: Impact-absorbing elements in the front end can be inexpensively replaced after a minor collision. Standard
DIRECT SELECT: The automatic transmission can be touch-operated by a stalk on the steering column. Standard
Downhill Speed Regulation: This system assists the driver on steep downhill gradients. Standard
EASY-PACK load-securing kit: Aluminium rails, a telescopic rod and lashing belts allow separation of the load compartment and secure stowage of luggage. Optional
EASY-PACK tailgate: A hydraulic system enables the tailgate to be even more conveniently opened and closed at the touch of a button. Optional
Electronic Traction System 4ETS: Wheels with poor traction are automatically braked to transfer the drive torque to the wheels with good traction. Standard
ESP®: This system reduces the risk of skidding and warns the driver of tyre pressure loss. Standard
Headlamp Assist: A sensor on the windscreen recognises low light conditions and automatically switches on the vehicle lights. Standard
KEYLESS-GO: The doors and tailgate can be opened without the use of a key. Optional
Multicontour seat: Inflated air cushions allow the seat contours to be individually adjusted for comfort. Optional (standard in the ML 500)
Multifunction steering wheel: The radio, telephone, navigation system and other systems can be operated from the steering wheel. Standard
Multi-zone THERMOTRONIC: This newly developed system individually regulates the temperature and airflow for the driver, front passenger and occupants in the rear. Optional (standard in the ML 500)
NECK-PRO: In the event of a rear-end collision, the sensor-controlled front head restraints are moved forward by approx. 40 millimetres. Standard
Off-road ABS: This auxiliary function allows braking distances to be reduced on poor road surfaces. Standard
Paint finish: Nano-technology makes the paint more scratch-resistant and ensures a better sheen. Standard
PRE-SAFE®: Preventive safety measures are taken for the occupants if a collision appears likely. Standard
Sidebags: These side-mounted airbags reduce the risk of injury during a lateral impact. Standard
Sound system: A new multi-channel system provides surround sound for every seat. Optional (standard in the ML 500)
Start-Off Assist: This technology prevents the M-Class from rolling back when moving off on gradients. Standard
THERMATIC automatic climate control: This system controls the fan speed depending on the temperature selected, and automatically varies the proportion of recirculated air if ambient temperatures are high to cool the interior more rapidly. Standard
Tunnel closing: Operating the air recirculation switch causes any open windows and the sunroof to close when entering a tunnel or underground car park. Standard
Up-front sensors: Crash sensors in the front end allow activation of the restraint systems as the situation requires. Standard
Windowbags: These large air cushions extend from the A?pillar to the C-pillar like a curtain to reduce the risk of head injuries during a lateral impact. Standard
*Extracts



2006 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
The 2006 Mercedes-Benz M-Class arrives this month in Australia





Mercedes-Benz ML 320 CDI


Engine    
No. of cylinders/arrangement   6/V, 4 valves per cylinder
Displacement cc 2987
Bore x stroke mm 83 x 92
Rated output kW/hp 165/224
Rated torque Nm 510 at 1600-2800 rpm
Compression ratio   18: 1
Mixture formation   Common-rail direct injection, turbocharger, EDC
Power transfer    
Drive system   Permanent four-wheel drive, torque distribution 50:50
Transmission   Seven-speed automatic
Ratios Final drive 3.45
  1st gear 4.377
  2nd gear 2.859
  3rd gear 1.921
  4th gear 1.368
  5th gear 1.0
  6th gear 0.82
  7th gear 0.728
  Reverse -3.416/-2.231
Running gear    
Front axle   Double-wishbone suspension, anti-dive, coil springs, gas-pressure shock absorbers, stabiliser
Rear axle   Four-link suspension, anti-squat and anti-dive, coil springs, gas-pressure shock absorbers, stabiliser
Braking system   Disc brakes all-round, front internally ventilated, drum-type parking brake at rear, ABS, Brake Assist, ESP®, 4ETS
Steering   Power-assisted speed-sensitive rack-and-pinion steering, steering damper
Wheels   7.5 J x 17 ET 56
Tyres   235/65 R 17
Dimensions and weights    
Wheelbase mm 2915
Track front/rear mm 1627/1629
Overall length mm 4780
Overall width mm 1911
Overall height mm 1815
Turning circle M 11.6
Boot capacity* L 551-2050
Kerb weight acc. to ECEG kg 2110
Payload kg 720
Gross vehicle weight kg 2830
Tank capacity/reserve L 95/13
Performance and fuel consumption    
Acceleration 0-100 km/h S 8.6
Maximum speed km/h 215
Fuel consumption** l/100 km 9.4-9.8 (9.6 ADR 81/01)

*Acc. to VDA measuring method; **Combined

Mercedes-Benz ML 350


Engine
No. of cylinders/arrangement 6/V, 4 valves per cylinder
Displacement cc 3498
Bore x stroke mm 92.9 x 86
Rated output kW/hp 200/272
Rated torque Nm 350 at 2400-5000 rpm
Compression ratio 10.7 : 1
Mixture formation Microprocessor-controlled petrol injection with hot-film air mass measurement
Power transfer
Drive system Permanent four-wheel drive, torque distribution 50: 50
Transmission Seven-speed automatic
Ratios Final drive 3.9
1st gear 4.377
2nd gear 2.859
3rd gear 1.921
4th gear 1.368
5th gear 1.0
6th gear 0.82
7th gear 0.728
Reverse -3.416/-2.231
Running gear
Front axle   Double-wishbone suspension, McPherson struts, anti-dive, coil springs, gas-pressure shock absorbers, stabiliser
Rear axle   Four-link suspension, anti-squat and anti-dive, coil springs, gas-pressure shock absorbers, stabiliser
Braking system   Disc brakes all-round, front internally ventilated, drum-type parking brake at rear, ABS, Brake Assist, ESP®, 4ETS
Steering   Power-assisted speed-sensitive rack-and-pinion steering, steering damper
Wheels 7.5 J x 17 ET 56
Tyres 235/65 R 17
Dimensions and weights
Wheelbase mm 2915
Track front/rear mm 1627/1629
Overall length mm 4780
Overall width mm 1911
Overall height mm 1815
Turning circle M 11.6
Boot capacity* L 551-2050
Kerb weight acc. to ECEG kg 2060
Payload kg 770
Gross vehicle weight kg 2830
Tank capacity/reserve L 95/132
Performance and fuel consumption
Acceleration 0-100 km/h S 8.4
Maximum speed km/h 225
Fuel consumption** l/100 km 11.5-11.7 (11.7 ADR 81/01)

*Acc. to VDA measuring method; **Combined

Mercedes-Benz ML 500


Engine
No. of cylinders/arrangement 8/V, 3 valves per cylinder
Displacement cc 4966
Bore x stroke mm 97 x 84
Rated output kW/hp 225/306
Rated torque Nm 460 at 2700-47250 rpm
Compression ratio 10 : 1
Mixture formation Microprocessor-controlled petrol injection with hot-film air mass measurement
Power transfer
Drive system Permanent four-wheel drive, torque distribution 50: 50
Transmission Seven-speed automatic
Ratios Final drive 3.7
1st gear 4.377
2nd gear 2.859
3rd gear 1.921
4th gear 1.368
5th gear 1
6th gear 0.82
7th gear 0.728
Reverse -3.416/-2.231
Running gear
Front axle   Double-wishbone suspension, anti-dive, coil springs, gas-pressure shock absorbers, stabiliser
Rear axle   Four-link suspension, anti-squat and anti-dive, coil springs, gas-pressure shock absorbers, stabiliser
Braking system   Internally ventilated front and rear disc brakes, drum-type parking brake at rear, ABS, Brake Assist, ESP®, 4ETS
Steering   Power-assisted speed-sensitive rack-and-pinion steering, steering damper
Wheels   8 J x 18 ET 60
Tyres   255/55 R 18
Dimensions and weights
Wheelbase mm 2915
Track front/rear mm 162719/162921
Overall length mm 4780
Overall width mm 1911
Overall height mm 1815
Turning circle M 11.6
Boot capacity* L 551-2050
Kerb weight acc. to ECEG kg 2100
Payload kg 730
Gross vehicle weight kg 2830
Tank capacity/reserve L 95/132
Performance and fuel consumption
Acceleration 0-100 km/h S 6.9
Maximum speed km/h 240
Fuel consumption** l/100 km 13.4 (13.4 ADR 81/01)

*Acc. to VDA measuring method; **Combined












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