(continued from above)
The 2012 Mercedes-Benz M-Class features the new active and passive safety
features that are now familiar for Mercedes-Benz. A characteristic body design
together with a comfortable and versatile interior enhances the driving
experience in the new M-Class.
The all-new 2012 M-Class will make its
U.S. retail debut in September 2011 and includes two models: ML350 4Matic and
ML350 BlueTEC.
Dr. Thomas Weber, Member of the Board of Management of
Daimler AG for Group Research and Mercedes-Benz Cars development, commented:
"The M-Class embodies all the automotive experience that we have accumulated
over 125 years and thus represents - in short - a quantum leap in terms of
efficiency, safety, agility and design!"
Effortlessly Superior,
High-Quality Design
The body design of this new-generation model,
with the very typical shape of its C-pillar, is full of character and
immediately recognizable as an M-Class. Its styling, high-quality appeal and
excellent ease of operation combine to give it a forceful presence. The front of
the vehicle is dominated by the powerfully self-confident design of the radiator
grille with its centrally positioned Mercedes star, giving it that typical
M-Class look. The new styling of the headlamps conveys a high-quality, exclusive
and innovative impression. The LED daytime running lamps are set in chrome
inserts integrated into the bumpers. A deeper, broad, chrome-effect skid plate
continues down from the lower edge of the radiator grille, reinforcing the
impressive overall appearance.
Seen from the side, the elongated lines
give formal emphasis to the on-road credentials of this vehicle, whose compact
proportions are defined by a large wheelbase and short overhangs. The C-pillar
that is so characteristic of this model series takes its cue from early
generations of the M-Class and differentiates it very clearly in stylistic terms
from its competitors. At the same time, the way the roof line slopes down to the
rear underlines the sporty appeal of the new M-Class. No pillar is visible in
the transition from the rear side window through to the rear windshield. This,
together with the similarly wrap-around effect of the two-part taillights with
LED fiber-optic technology, and the lowered roof with its large roof spoiler,
add up to an overall seamless design. The rear bumper, which features an
integrated chrome load sill guard in a new "wing design," defines the
characteristic appearance of the SUV's rear end. The chrome finish of other
product features, such as the roof rails, the beltline trim strip and the load
compartment handle, emphasize the highquality appeal of the exterior.
In
the U.S., available wheels range from the standard 19" Twin-Spoke alloy wheel
through to 20-inch wheels with an elegant, high-quality appeal.
Mercedes-Benz ML350 BlueTEC 4Matic: Review (2/2)
