2008 New York Auto Show: 2009 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
- Competes with: Acura MDX, BMW X5, Land Rover Range Rover Sport
- Looks like: The current M-Class after a few shots of botox
- Drivetrain: V-6 or V-8 with seven-speed automatic
- Hits dealerships: Fall 2008
When we recently tested the 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML550, we were surprised by how good an SUV the M-Class still is in a very competitive segment. In New York next week, Mercedes-Benz will unveil an updated version of the M-Class that promises to improve upon this sleeper of an SUV.
The 2009 model will come in the same trim levels — ML350, ML550 and ML63 AMG — as well as the diesel ML320 Bluetec we told you about earlier. All three gasoline engines, however, will get boosts in power and fuel-efficiency, though Mercedes hasn’t provided exact figures at this time. As for the mileage claims, our ML550 tester was already surprisingly economical considering the power in its V-8 engine.
Outside, the design gets a little curvier, especially around the front grille. The look is more menacing and more organic. Inside there are slight changes to the design, including a new steering wheel. Most importantly, Mercedes says it has changed the old version’s abysmal infotainment unit to a new array of three different choices. We’re hoping the new systems are more akin to the ones in the new C-Class.
There are more photos below of the European models, including comparisons to the 2008 M-Class. We’ll be checking out all of Mercedes’ upgraded models at the New York auto show next week, so stay tuned.
