2012 Mercedes-Benz M-Class: First Look

• Competes with: Lexus RX, BMW X5, Audi Q5
• Looks like: A more domesticated M-Class
• Drivetrain: 302-hp V-6; 240-hp, turbocharged diesel V-6; seven-speed automatic transmission
• Hits dealerships: September

The M-Class SUV has been one of Mercedes-Benz’s best-selling models over the past decade despite just modest changes. For 2012, the model has been redesigned with an all-new exterior, interior, chassis and powertrains. The ML350 4matic and ML350 Bluetec trims will go on sale in September. Both trims come with a standard, permanent all-wheel drive system with special off-road controls.

The new model follows the company’s updates to its cars with more creases and bodylines to create a “busier” design along with de-emphasizing the once gigantic logo that sat in the middle of the grille.

The more sophisticated look is more in line with other redesigned models like the 2011 CL-Class. There’s more definition to the tailgate through wide, wraparound fenders and a prominent beltline crease. The model comes with 19-inch wheels, LED daytime running light, LED taillamps and roof rails standard. Overall, the look is more angular, less macho and more wagon-looking than before.

There’s a dramatic change in the M-Class’s interior, too. The model features long stretches of real, hand-polished eucalyptus wood along the dash. There’s a new standard 7-inch LCD screen that’s moved to the top of the dash to help reduce distraction, says Mercedes. The instrument cluster features a 4.5-inch display. The rear seats have an adjustable seatback angle for added comfort. Heated front seats, Bluetooth audio, six CD changer, HD radio and a USB port are all now standard for 2012 model.

The base ML350 4matic will be offered with a revised 302-horspower, 3.5-liter V-6 that’s mated to a seven-speed automatic transmission. That’s 12% more power than last year’s model. The model will get an estimated 17/22 mpg city/highway with all-wheel drive (the 2011 got 15/20 mpg). There will also be a revised 240-hp, 3.0-liter turbo-diesel engine, which produces 455 pounds-feet of torque. That diesel powertrain is expected to return 20/25 mpg (up from 18/25 in 2011). We’re sure other V-8, AMG, hybrid and two-wheel-drive variants of the M-Class will be announced at a later date.

In terms of new chassis developments, Mercedes claims the M-Class will have the tightest turning radius of any midsized luxury SUV at 38.7 feet, and it will add an adaptive damping system to its suspension.

The 2012 M-Class has nine air bags, including a new knee airbag, and there’s a new standard drowsiness detection system, which monitors the attentiveness of the driver.

Continue below for more photos. We’ll have more details as soon as Mercedes makes them available