View M – Class Brochure

Product information for the Mercedes-Benz 

Sales Organisation 6/2011 

ADVANTAGES 

The new M-Class 

Positioning: Page 2 | Exterior: Page 4 | Interior: Page 12 | Technology: Page 22 | Equipment: Page 26 

Paint finishes & upholstery: Page 34 | Data & dimensions: Page 36 | Competitors: Page 38

2 Positioning | Page 2–3 Exterior | Page 4–11 Interior | Page 12–21 Technology | Page 22–25 

Positioning – for those in control 

The M-Class leads the field in terms of safety, comfort, quality feel, load capacity, emissions and fuel consumption. 

The full-size SUV’s strength lies in its all-round capabilities, in accordance with the motto: “Solutions for Life: capability, 

style, responsibility”. 

The positioning features of the new W166 series are as follows: 

• Capability: is the benchmark for comfort and load compartment capacity and offers ease of handling on- and offroad 

• Style: pioneering interpretation of a contemporary SUV with a powerful exterior and an interior featuring high-quality details 

• Responsibility: significantly reduced fuel consumption, extensive safety features and innovative assistance systems 

>56-431221 

Interior lamps switched on, with ambient lighting (876)

Equipment | Page 26–33 

Paint & upholstery | Page 34–35 

Interior in black/almond beige leather (255), open-pore brown ash wood trim (H09) 

Data & dimensions | Page 36–37 Competitors | Page 38–39 

3


Exterior design




5


Exterior design – masculine and athletic 

ML 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC, 48.3 cm (19-inch) 5-spoke light-alloy wheels (R39), iridium silver (775) 

ML 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC, 48.3 cm (19-inch) 5-spoke light-alloy wheels (R39), 

iridium silver (775) 

Folding exterior mirror 

Striking contours and horizontal lines make the W166 

series more masculine and athletic. Other contributing factors 

include the modified proportions: the vehicle is now 

15 mm wider than the W164, while the roof height has 

been lowered by 19 mm. 

Key elements of the M-Class exterior design include: 

• Elongated lines of the side view emphasise the on-road 

character 

• Design cast from a single mould with continuous tail 

lights and flowing transition from the rear side windows 

to the rear window 

• Characteristic C-pillar in hallmark M-Class style 

• Powerful, self-confident radiator grille with large centrally 

positioned star 

• Large chrome-style underguard typical of an SUV in 

the front and rear bumper



Front design – powerful and exclusive 

ML 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC, iridium silver (775), DISTRONIC PLUS (233) 

Radiator grille with three chromed louvres and large, centrally positioned star 

H7 projection-beam headlamps (185#), switched on, LED daytime running 

lamps, dimmed 


The radiator grille and the front bumper with large underguard 

underpin the impressive look and feel of the front 

view. 

The key elements of the front design are: 

• Straight LED daytime running lamps in front bumper 

• Powerful radiator grille with three chromed louvres 

and large centrally positioned star 

• Front bumper with pronounced chrome-style 

underguard 

Headlamps >55-31082 

• Outboard: projection module for the low beam headlamps 

with H7 halogen bulb 

• Inboard: reflector for main beam (H7 halogen bulb) and 

sidelight (5-watt bulb) 

• Lower section, horizontally across the entire width of 

the headlamp: indicator with two yellow bulbs 

7


Side design – exhilarating profile 

ML 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC, Exterior Sports package (P31), 48.3 cm (19-inch) AMG 5-spoke light-alloy wheels (780), diamond white metallic BRIGHT (799) 

Hallmark M-Class C-pillar, iridium silver (775) 

Aluminium-look running boards with rubber studs (846) 

The side view with its elongated lines and hallmark 

M-Class C-pillar is dominated by the large wheelbase with 

short overhangs. The rearwards sloping roof line provides 

for a sporty silhouette. 

The following elements add to the appeal of the side design: 

• Characteristic, typical C-pillar shape which clearly differentiates 

the M-Class from its rivals 

• High beltline with chrome trim 

• Elongated feature line, which creates an impression 

of power 

• Side skirts with chrome trim 

• Large selection of light-alloy wheels from 43.2 cm 

(17-inch) to 53.3 cm (21-inch) 

• Roof rails in chrome look 

• Aluminium-look running boards with rubber studs 

(optional extra)




Rear design – a robust profile with horizontal lines 


Tailgate with chromed handle 

LED tail light 

The lower roof height at the rear and the horizontal lines 

in the tailgate, tail lights and rear bumper combine to produce 

a robust rear profile. 

• Roof lowered at the rear with large roof spoiler and 

integral third brake light 

• Large tailgate with chromed handle 

• Continuous tail lights with LED fibre-optic technology 

• Rear bumper with reflectors positioned on the side as 

well as large underguard and integral load sill guard, 

each with chrome finish; the tail pipes are not visible 

Tail lights >55-30582 

• In the red upper section across both sections: tail light 

with horizontal fibre optics 

• In the white centre section of the side wall: LED 

indicator 

• In the white centre section of the tailgate: reversing 

lamp with bulb 

• In the red lower section of the side wall: tail light and 

side marker lights with horizontal fibre optics and 

brake light with bulb 

9


Roof systems 

Roof rails in chrome look 

Sliding sunroof (414), open 

Panoramic sliding sunroof (413), open 

Panoramic sliding sunroof (413), closed 

Roof rails in chrome look 

Chrome-plated roof rails are the basic carriers for transporting 

objects on the vehicle roof. With the appropriate accessories, 

bicycles or roof boxes can be securely fastened. 

Sliding sunroof 

The electrically operated sliding glass sunroof features 

convenience functions such as “automatic opening” and 

“automatic closing”. A headliner, which can be moved from 

inside, provides protection against sunlight. 

Panoramic sliding sunroof 

The panoramic sliding sunroof consists of a fixed panoramic 

glass roof and an electrically operated glass sunroof which 

slides over the exterior of the roof. The transparent surface 

area is very large and lets in plenty of light. 

Customer benefit 

The panoramic sliding sunroof offers the following customer 

benefits: 

• Creates a transparent surface area which is double the 

size of that available with conventional sliding glass 

sunroofs 

• Gives the interior a particularly light and welcoming feel 

• Sunblinds provide effective protection against direct 

sunlight 

• Size of opening is around 1/3 larger than conventional 

sliding sunroofs 

• Easy operation thanks to multifunction switch in the 

overhead control panel


Wheels 

>56-431248 

43.2 cm (17-inch) 10-spoke light-alloy wheels 

(25R) 


(03R) 


(R53) 

48.3 cm (19-inch) AMG 5-spoke light-alloy wheels 

(780) 


43.2 cm (17-inch) 7-twin-spoke light-alloy wheels 

(R24) 


(R55) 


(R33) 

50.8 cm (20-inch) AMG 5-spoke light-alloy wheels 

(758) 



(R41) 


(R39) 


(50R) 

53.3 cm (21-inch) AMG 5-twin-spoke light-alloy 

wheels (757) 

11


Interior design – sporty, high-quality and ergonomic 

The sporty character of the new M-Class also permeates the interior with its high-quality finish. The interior is designed 

for optimum ergonomics and superb practicality. 

The following features define the character of the interior: 

• Sporty: the horizontal lines from the exterior design have been adopted and the cockpit is elegant 

• High-quality: spacious, airy interior, high-quality materials and exclusive details 

• Ergonomics: extremely convenient access and lots of space, newly developed user-friendly control and display concept 

Interior in almond beige ARTICO man-made leather (105), brown eucalyptus wood trim (734)


Ambient lighting (876), solar 



13


Interior design – sporty, high-quality and ergonomic 

Interior in black DINAMICA microfibre/ARTICO man-made leather (601), 

longitudinal-grain aluminium trim (739), Interior Sports package (P95) 

Instrument cluster in 2-tube design with multifunction display 

Head unit, Audio 20 CD (523) 

Operating unit, THERMATIC automatic climate control (580) 

Cockpit and steering wheel – easy to see, easy to reach 

The cockpit of the M-Class conveys a typical SUV driving 

sensation with excellent visibility of the controls and 

the road. 

Key features: 

• Essential vehicle information easy to read via the 

two-tube instrument cluster and the large monochrome 

11.4 cm display between the tubes 

• Extremely easy to use with the 4-spoke multifunction 

steering wheel featuring twelve trapezoidal buttons for 

trip computer, radio, telephone, etc. 

• Ergonomic use of the 7G-TRONIC PLUS via the DIRECT 

SELECT lever and the DIRECT SELECT gearshift paddles 

on the steering wheel 

• Good visibility thanks to high seat position 

Centre console – clear and easy to use 

Important display elements and controls are arranged 

clearly and ergonomically on the centre console. One new 

feature is the large, centrally positioned display and the 

Controller for operating the head unit and also the housing 

of sockets for mobile audio devices in the stowage compartment 

under the armrest. 

The elements have the following vertical layout: 

• Large, centrally positioned display (14.7 cm screen 

diagonal with Audio 20 CD, 17.8 cm with optional 

COMAND Online) 

• Vent openings with high-quality design, left and right 

of the central display 

• Head unit control for Audio 20 CD or COMAND Online 

(optional extra) 

• Control panel for the automatic climate control 

THERMATIC 

• Open stowage compartment


Selector lever, DIRECT SELECT gearshift 


Controls, AIRMATIC package (489), ON&OFFROAD package (430) 

Temperature-controlled cup holder (311) 

Glove compartment, preparation for Becker ® MAP PILOT (508) 


Controls – easier to use, extra functions 

The operating comfort of the M-Class has been improved 

thanks to innovative controls and their ergonomic layout. 

Related controls are grouped together in clearly laid out 

clusters. 

The following controls are new or have been changed: 

• Multifunction lever for indicator and windscreen wipers 

positioned at the top, making it easier to see and 

thus easier to operate 

• Cruise control stalk positioned below the multifunction 

lever 

• Ergonomically positioned Controller on the centre 

console for intuitive operation of infotainment, navigation 

and communication systems via the head unit 

central display 

• Seat adjustment controls are positioned in the door as 

standard. There they are easy to see and reach 

• Control for the new electric parking brake below the 

rotary light switch 

Stowage compartments – everything in the right place 

A host of easily accessible stowage compartments in the 

M-Class provide storage for bottles, cups, keys, coins and 

much more besides. The innovative double cup holder 

with temperature control in the centre console can cool or 

warm drinks between 8°C and 55°C. 

The driver and front seat passenger can access the following 

conveniently positioned stowage compartments: 

• Spectacles compartment in the overhead control panel 

• Card holder on the driverʼs side sun visor 

• Illuminated, air-conditioned glove compartment, with 

coin, pen and card holder 

• Stowage compartment or ashtray (optional extra) 

• Stowage compartment with roll-top cover, two cup 

holders (optionally temperature-controlled) and 12V 

power socket 

• Stowage compartment on the right of the handrest and 

Controller (slightly smaller in conjunction with the 

AIRMATIC package (optional extra), not available in conjunction 

with the optional ON&OFFROAD package) 

15


Seats – ergonomic seating comfort 

Sports seats in microfibre DINAMICA/imitation leather ARTICO black (601), longitudinal-grain aluminium trim (739), Interior Sports package (P95) 

Front seats in almond beige ARTICO man-made leather (105), open-pore brown 

ash wood trim (H09) 

Front seats in porcelain designo leather (X27) 

The seats are designed for excellent comfort on long journeys 

and optimum lateral support. The carefully selected 

materials and workmanship add to the interiorʼs high-quality 

appeal. 

The seats particularly excel with the following attributes: 

• Ergonomics and comfort: seats can be adjusted to suit 

the driver’s own requirements, fully electric seat adjustment, 

ease of access 

• Quality feel: high-quality seat design and a large selection 

of materials 

Optional extras include: 

• Climatised seats 

• Active multicontour seat package with massage function 

and luxury head restraints (from CY12) 

• Memory package



Rear seats – lots of room on all seats 

Adjustable rear seat inclination (18-degree range of adjustment in 2-degree increments/10 positions) 

Through-loading feature via armrest in rear (282) 

ISOFIX child seat attachment points (573) 


The rear seats also offer lots of space and excellent comfort 

on long journeys. 

Key features of the rear seats: 

• Armrest with cup holder, optionally with through-loading 

feature 

• 1/3:2/3 split-folding rear seats, forward-folding seat 

cushions that can be turned into a level load space 

• ISOFIX child seat attachment points with TopTether on 

the outer rear seats 

• Largest shoulder room in the segment with sufficient 

space for three child seats 

• Inclination of rear seat backrest can be adjusted 

(18-degree range of adjustment in 2-degree increments/10 

positions) 

17


Interior design 

Interior in black leather (201), open-pore brown ash wood trim (H09) 

Interior in black/tobacco brown/marron leather (254), open-pore brown ash wood trim (H09)



Interior in alpaca grey leather (208), open-pore brown ash wood trim (H09) 

Interior in almond beige leather (205), open-pore brown ash wood trim (H09) 


19


Load compartment – spacious and flexible 

The M-Class provides the largest load compartment in the segment. The rear seats are 1/3:2/3 split-folding seats. 

Intelligent equipment such as the EASY-PACK load-securing kit or the lockable laptop compartment mean that the load 

compartment can be used flexibly. 

The M-Class sets the benchmark with the key load compartment dimensions: 

• Largest load compartment capacity behind 1st row of seats at 2010 l and largest load compartment capacity behind 

2nd row of seats at 690 l 

• Largest load compartment length behind 1st row of seats measuring 1833 mm and largest load compartment length 

behind 2nd row of seats measuring 1046 mm 

• Largest through-loading height at 839 mm 

The load compartment volume includes a stowage space of 90 litres under the load compartment floor. 

Adjustable rear seat inclination (18-degree range of adjustment in 2-degree 

increments/10 positions) 

EASY-PACK tailgate (890) 

Laptop compartment, stowage compartment beneath load compartment 

floor (888) 

Standard equipment 

• 1/3:2/3 split-folding rear seats 

• Backrest angle adjustment in the 2nd row of seats 

• Three adjustable head restraints 

• Four load-securing rings on the load compartment floor 

• Four fixed bag hooks at beltline height 

• Two coat hooks in the tailgate 

• A folding bag hook on the left in the load compartment 

Optional extras 

• EASY-PACK tailgate for convenient opening and closing 

• EASY-PACK load-securing kit with cargo rails allows a 

very wide range of objects to be secured easily 

• Load compartment cover enhances the appearance of 

the rear compartment and protects the load compartment 

from prying eyes 

• EASY-PACK load compartment cover including a 

safety net behind the second row of seats can, when 

correctly installed, protect the occupants from unsecured 

objects in the load compartment 

• Armrest with through-loading feature through an 

opening behind the rear armrest is ideal for transporting 

skis 

• Lockable laptop compartment in the stowage compartment 

under the load compartment floor for laptops with 

a screen diagonal of up to 38.1 cm (15-inch) (only in 

conjunction with compact spare tyre)



Load compartment, 2nd row of seats not folded down, retractable cover 

pulled forward 

Load compartment, 2nd row of seats fully folded 


Load compartment, 2nd row of seats not folded down, retractable cover open 

Load compartment, 2nd row of seats 1/3 folded down Load compartment, 2nd row of seats 2/3 folded down 

EASY-PACK FIXKIT load compartment management (942) 

21


Technology – compelling performance on road and off 

The M-Class drive system and suspension meet the exacting demands of on-road and off-road motoring. They combine 

comfortable, agile handling on road with good off-road capability. The M-Class impresses with exemplary fuel consumption 

and emissions figures which are unprecedented in the SUV segment. 

ML 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC, 48.3 cm (19-inch) 5-spoke light-alloy wheels (R39), 

calcite white (650) 

Drive system for the M276 

Rear wheels with air suspension offroad 

The technical highlights in the M-Class are: 

• New engine line-up with superior power delivery with 

low fuel consumption and emissions figures, all diesel 

engines with BlueTEC technology, petrol engines with 

state-of-the-art direct injection in the shape of 

BlueDIRECT 

• Enhanced 7G-TRONIC PLUS with significant contribution 

to the lower fuel consumption, sportier response 

and easier shifting 

• Standard-fit steel suspension with improved damping 

system thanks to SDC (Sensitive Damping Control) 

shock absorbers for extra comfort and driving dynamics 

• Permanent 4MATIC all-wheel drive system with offroad 

drive program for all engines 

• AIRMATIC package (optional extra), Adaptive Damping 

System (ADS) with air suspension and load detection 

• ACTIVE CURVE SYSTEM (optional extra only in conjunction 

with the AIRMATIC package, not available for 

ML 250 BlueTEC 4MATIC) with active roll stabilisation 

function enhances ride comfort, agility and safety at 

high speeds, when cornering and off road (in conjunction 

with the optional ON&OFFROAD package) 

• ON&OFFROAD package (optional extra) with special 

on-road and off-road modes fine-tunes the vehicle optimally 

to the particular driving situation


4-cylinder diesel engine, OM651 series 

M276 V6 petrol engine 

Chassis and steering 

Offroad transmission mode with offroad button 



Diesel engines 

• ML 250 BlueTEC 4MATIC, OM651 4-cylinder in-line 

diesel engine 

• ML 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC, OM642 V6 diesel engine 

In due course the ML 300 BlueTEC HYBRID 4MATIC is set 

to join the line-up: a very economical hybrid drive based 

on the OM651. 

Petrol engine 

• ML 350 4MATIC BlueEFFICIENCY, M276 V6 

petrol engine 

Chassis 

The M-Class suspension boasts a high level of driving 

dynamics and ride comfort on road. Together with the 

permanent all-wheel drive system 4MATIC it also delivers 

compelling performance off road. 

The following features combine to make the M-Class suspension 

outstandingly versatile: 

• Enhanced and extended dynamic handling control 

systems with improved 4ESP ® /4ETS including ABS, 

BAS, ESP ® trailer stabilisation and Downhill Speed 

Regulation (DSR) as well as start-off assist 

• Offroad-specific handling with suitable configuration of 

dynamic handling control systems, engine and transmission 

can be activated via the standard-fit “off-road switch” 

on the centre console (not available for ML 250) 

• Outstanding handling thanks to the smallest turning 

circle in the segment of 11.8 m 

23


Environment – responsible SUV motoring 


Exhaust aftertreatment with BlueTEC 

Cut-away model 

The noticeable reduction in fuel consumption and emissions 

in the M-Class illustrates that environmental compatibility 

and SUV motoring are reconcilable. But the careful 

use of resources is not limited solely to driving: the international 

environmental certificate “Design for Environment” 

(ISO/TR 14062) attests to the high environmental compatibility 

of the M-Class, from production and usage to end-oflife 

disposal. 

BlueEFFICIENCY >56-431245 

Measures relating to the vehicle, engine and drive system 

have reduced fuel consumption in the M-Class by up to 

28% compared with the outgoing model series. 

The following measures permit reduced fuel consumption 

and low emissions: 

• Innovative engines with direct injection and diesel engines 

featuring BlueTEC technology 

• ECO start/stop function as standard 

• Consumption-optimised 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic 

transmission 

• Demand-responsive components 

• Improved aerodynamics



Safety – the benchmark in the segment 

>56-431244 

Light package (P35) and LED daytime running lamps (standard) 

Instrument cluster, display of Active Lane Keeping Assist, a component of 

Driving Assistance package Plus (23P) 

Onboard airbag system 

Support structures with force dissipation path for frontal impact 


Safe driving 

• Tyre pressure loss warning system alerts the driver 

early on to a loss of pressure detected in a tyre. 

• Light package (optional extra, from 04/12) with 

Intelligent Light System and Adaptive Highbeam Assist 

automatically adjusts the adaptive bi-xenon headlamps 

to the driving situation, thus improving the driver’s 

vision. 

In case of danger 

• PRE-SAFE ® triggers anticipatory occupant protection 

measures if the system detects a risk of accident. For 

example, the front seat belts are tensioned by electromotive 

means. The side windows and the sliding sunroof 

can also be closed if required and the position of the 

front passenger seat can be adjusted. 

• BAS PLUS (included in the optional Driving Assistance 

package Plus) assists the driver where necessary by 

applying additional brake force during braking. 

• PRE-SAFE ® Brake (included with optional Driving 

Assistance package Plus) can apply the brakes if the 

risk of a collision has been detected, and the driver 

fails to respond to the visual and acoustic warnings. 

In an accident 

• Two-stage driver and passenger airbags 

• Thorax/pelvis airbags, a completely new design for improved 

driver and front passenger protection in the 

event of a side impact 

• Pyrotechnic belt tensioners and belt force limiters for 

the front seats and for the rear outside seats 

• Kneebag can protect the driver in the knee contact area 

with the dashboard 

• Active bonnet helps reduce risk of injury to pedestrians 

in collisions 

After an accident 

Depending on the type of accident and the severity of the 

impact, various means can be activated. These include: 

• Automatic unlocking of the doors 

• Engine and fuel pump are shut off automatically 

• Side windows lowered by 50 mm 

• Activation of hazard warning lights 

• Activation of interior lighting 

• Crash interlock for auxiliary heater 

25


Appointments and equipment – everything to enhance 

exclusivity, sportiness and comfort 

The range of equipment offers a host of options for individualising the M-Class: the 4.5 generation multimedia systems 

and numerous packages enhance comfort, exclusivity and sportiness. The comprehensive selection of assistance systems 

add to ride comfort and safety. 

4-spoke comfort steering wheel, instrument panel in ARTICO black man-made leather (U09), longitudinal-grain aluminium trim (739), Interior Sports package (P95)


Instrument cluster, Active Parking Assist display (235) 



27


AMG Exterior Sports package 

ML 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC, AMG Exterior Sports package (P31), 48.3 cm (19-inch) AMG 5-spoke light-alloy wheels (780), diamond white metallic BRIGHT (799) 

Rear bumper, ML 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC, AMG Exterior Sports package (P31), 

diamond white metallic BRIGHT (799) 

ML 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC, AMG Exterior Sports package (P31), 48.3 cm (19-inch) 

AMG 5-spoke light-alloy wheels (780), diamond white metallic BRIGHT (799) 

AMG Exterior Sports package >55-30921 

The AMG Exterior Sports package enhances the exterior 

design and gives the vehicle a sportier and more dynamic 

character. 

The AMG Exterior Sports package offers the following customer 

benefits: 

• Enhances individuality 

• Makes the exterior even more distinctive 

• Makes the exterior even more appealing 

Design 

The AMG Exterior Sports package includes the following 

features: 

• AMG bodystyling (front and rear apron, body-coloured 

side trim panels) 

• 48.3 cm (19-inch) AMG 5-spoke light-alloy wheels, highsheen, 

with 255/50 R19 on 8.5 J x 19 ET59 (780) 

• Sports brakes with 18-inch/19-inch brake discs, perforated 

with brake calliper cover



Interior Sports package 


Sports seats in black DINAMICA microfibre/ARTICO man-made leather (601), longitudinal-grain aluminium trim (739), Interior Sports package (P95) 

Interior in black DINAMICA microfibre/ARTICO man-made leather (601), 

longitudinal-grain aluminium trim (739), Interior Sports package (P95) 

Floor mats, Interior Sports package (P95) 

Interior Sports package >55-30919 

The Interior Sports package enhances the interior design 

and gives the vehicle a sportier and more dynamic 

character. 

The Interior Sports package includes the following features: 

• DINAMICA microfibre/ARTICO man-made leather 

upholstery in black or nappa leather upholstery in black 

• Sports seats with independent seat design front/rear 

and contrasting topstitching 

• Distinctive door centre panel 

• Sports steering wheel in the form of a four-spoke luxury 

steering wheel 

• Brushed stainless steel sports pedals with rubber studs 

• High-quality velour floor mats, set of 4, with the appearance 

of a thick loop pile, nubuk leather edging, 

Mercedes-Benz brushed metal badge with a matt finish 

29


Standard equipment 

Audio 20 CD THERMATIC automatic climate control 

>55-30514 >55-30552 

Head unit, Audio 20 CD (523) Operating unit, THERMATIC automatic climate control (580) 

Audio 20 CD is equipped with a radio, CD player and telephone 

keypad, can be operated via the multifunction steering 

wheel, and includes loudspeakers specially configured 

for the vehicle interior. 

Customer benefits 

Audio 20 CD offers the following benefits: 

• User-friendly operation of all main information and communication 

functions via a shared interface and a colour 

display with 14.7 cm screen diagonal 

• Bluetooth interface with hands-free function and audio 

streaming for playing music files 

• Transfer of addresses from mobile phone to head unit 

via Bluetooth (PBAP – Phonebook Access Profile), if 

function supported by mobile phone 

• Audio content attractively represented by display of 

album cover in audio menu (cover art) 

Design 

Audio 20 CD comprises the following elements: 

• TFT colour display with 14.7 cm screen diagonal 

• Central control unit on centre console 

• RDS/dual tuner and traffic information decoder (TP/TA) 

• CD player, MP3/WMA/AAC compatible 

• Integrated 12-button keypad on head unit 

• Function buttons on head unit 

• Bluetooth connectivity 

The THERMATIC automatic climate control provides two 

climate zones. It increases individual comfort and operating 

comfort. 


The THERMATIC automatic climate control offers the following 

customer benefits: 

• Special function buttons permit manual intervention in 

the automatic system 

• Cooling or heating of the interior to the desired temperature 

for the left and right-hand sides separately 

• Even more operating convenience thanks to automatic 

control of the airflow and distribution 

Design 

The THERMATIC automatic climate control comprises the 

following elements: 

• Rear compartment outlets 

• Air recirculation switch 

• Activated charcoal combination filter 

Function 

The required temperature for the interior is selected by 

means of the rotary controls and enables the left and righthand 

side of the interior to be adjusted separately (2 climate 

zones). Depending on the pre-selected temperature and the 

required air distribution, the air is automatically cooled or 

heated.



Fully power-adjustable front seats Electric parking brake 

With fully power-adjustable front seats, the seat position 

can be effortlessly adjusted to suit the driver or passenger 

via a control unit in the driver and passenger door. 


Fully power-adjustable front seats offer the following 


• Convenient operation 

• Optimal seat position adjustment 

Construction 

Fully power-adjustable front seats include the following 

components: 

• Control unit in driver and passenger door 

• Electric motors in seats 

Operation 

The fully electric front seats are adjusted via switches in the 

front doors. When the relevant switch is operated, electric 

motors in the seats adjust the seat position. 

The following seat settings can be adjusted in this way: 

• Seat height 

• Backrest position 

• Seat inclination 

• Longitudinal seat position 


>55-30167 >55-29251 

Fully power-adjustable front seats, longitudinal-grain aluminium trim (739) Electric parking brake 

A handle below the light switch allows simple, reliable operation 

of the electric parking brake. 


The electric parking brake offers the following customer 

benefits: 

• Omission of pedal means more space in footwell 

• Light-action handle operation for extra convenience 

• Assist functions make driverʼs job easier 

Design 

The electric parking brake comprises the following 

elements: 

• Control buttons 

• Wiring 

• Duo-servo parking brake integrated into the rear-wheel 

brakes 

Operation 

The brake can be released by letting out the control button 

when the ignition is turned on. 

The brake is automatically released when: 

• The engine is running 

• The selector lever is in position D or R 

• The bonnet and boot are closed 

• The driver is belted in 

• The accelerator pedal is depressed 

31


Optional extras 

ON&OFFROAD package Driving Assistance package Plus 

>55-30928 >55-31097 

Controls, AIRMATIC package (489), ON&OFFROAD package (430) Instrument cluster, DISTRONIC PLUS (233) display, Driving Assistance package 

Plus (23P) 

The ON&OFFROAD package gives the driver more control 

over the handling characteristics of the vehicle – both on 

and off the road. The driver can choose between various 

pre-defined drive programs via a switch. These drive programs 

are designed to adapt the vehicle configuration as 

best as possible to the driving situation and road quality. 


The ON&OFFROAD package offers the following customer 

benefits: 

• Pre-defined drive programs for various road qualities 

• Optimised and interconnected vehicle configuration for 

the selected program 

• Drive program and effects displayed in COMAND display 

• Gradient and angle of inclination indicated in COMAND 

display 

Construction 

The ON&OFFROAD package includes the following 

components: 

• Drive program switch 

• Manual mode for automatic transmission 

• 100% differential locks on middle differential 

• Front and rear axle with adapted 4ETS 

• Off-road ratio 

• Underbody protection beneath engine 

• Reinforced underfloor panelling 

• Special off-road algorithm for ABS, ETS, EPS ® and 

air suspension 

The Driving Assistance package Plus is a combination of 

various complementary safety and comfort features. These 

include DISTRONIC PLUS, Brake Assist BAS PLUS, PRE- 

SAFE ® Brake, Active Blind Spot Assist, Active Lane Keeping 

Assist and automatic child seat recognition. 

Customer benefit 

The Driving Assistance package Plus offers the following 


• High level of stress-relieving comfort, especially on long 

journeys and in tailbacks 

• Assistance in many driving situations 

• Shorter stopping distances when braking in an 

emergency 

• Optimises braking performance by taking the vehicle’s 

surroundings into account 

• Reduces the consequences of rear-end collisions 

• Visual and audible warning if hazards occur 

• Indication of vehicles in the blind spot and specific, 

course-correcting braking action if required 

Design 

The Driving Assistance package Plus has the following 

features: 

• DISTRONIC PLUS 

• Brake Assist BAS PLUS 

• PRE-SAFE ® Brake 

• Active Blind Spot Assist 

• Active Lane Keeping Assist 

• Automatic child seat recognition




ACTIVE CURVE SYSTEM Temperature-controlled cup holder 

Without/with ACTIVE CURVE SYSTEM (468) 

>55-30923 >55-30997 

The ACTIVE CURVE SYSTEM reduces the vehicleʼs roll 

angle when cornering through its active suspension stabilisers. 

This enhances ride comfort for the vehicle occupants 

and boosts driving dynamics both at medium speed (winding 

rural roads) and also at high speed (motorways). 

Costumer benefit 

The ACTIVE CURVE SYSTEM offers the following customer 

benefits: 

• Reduced roll angle when cornering 

• Speed-dependent driving dynamics (more agility and 

driving pleasure at medium speed, greater directional 

stability at high speed) 

• Greater ride comfort for vehicle occupants 

Design 

The ACTIVE CURVE SYSTEM comprises the following 

elements: 

• Active suspension stabilisers on each axle 

• Hydraulic pump with oil reservoir 

• Valve blocks front/rear 

• Electronic control unit 

• Pressure sensors and lateral acceleration sensor 

Temperature-controlled cup holder (311) 

The temperature-controlled cupholder for the driver and 

front passenger holds bottles, cans and mugs securely in 

place where they are convenient to reach. It maintains 

the temperature of hot and cold drinks within a range of 

8°C to 55°C. 

Customer benefigt 

The temperature-controlled cupholder offers the following 


• Keeps the temperature of both hot and cold drinks 

within a range of 8°C to 55°C 

• Fixes bottles, cans and mugs in place, preventing 

spillage 

• Drinks are always ready to hand for the driver and front 

passenger 

Design 

The temperature-controlled cupholder has the following 

components: 

• PTC element 

• Control buttons 

• Control lamp 

• Diecast insert 

• Rubber mat 

• Temperature sensor 

Function 

The temperature-controlled cupholder is controlled by a 

switch in the centre console. A control lamp shows whether 

the cooling or heating function is active. 

33


Paintwork 

>56-431235 

Non-metallic paints 

black (040) 

Metallic paints 

obsidian black (197) 


iridium silver (775) 


citrine brown (796) 

Non-metallic paints 

calcite white (650) 


tanzanite blue (359) 


palladium silver (792) 

Special paints 

diamond white metallic BRIGHT (799) 


tenorite grey (755) 


pearl beige (794)


Upholstery and trim 

>56-431235 

Fabric 

black (001) 

Leather 

black (201) 

Leather 

black/ almond beige (255) 

Trim 

longitudinal-grain aluminium trim (739) 

Trim 

brown burr walnut wood trim 

elements (731) 


ARTICO man-made leather 

black (101) 

Leather 

almond beige (205) 

Leather 

black/ alpaca grey (258) 

Trim 

brown eucalyptus wood trim (734) 



almond beige (105) 

Leather 

alpaca grey (208) 

DINAMICA microfibre/ 


black (601) 

Trim 

open-pore brown ash wood trim (H09) 


alpaca grey (108) 

Leather 

black/tobacco brown/marron (254) 

Nappa leather 

black (801) 

Trim 

anthracite high-gloss poplar wood 

trim (729) 

35


Technical data 

ML 250 BlueTEC 4MATIC ML 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC ML 350 4MATIC 

Arrangement/No. of cylinders L4 V6 V6 

Valves per cylinder 4 4 4 

Displacement (cm³) 2143 2987 3498 

BlueEFFICIENCY 

Rated output (kW [PS] at rpm) 150 [204]/4200 190 [258]/3600 225 [306]/6500 

Model variant number 166004 (W166) ML 250 166024 (W166) ML 350 166057 (W166) ML 350 

BlueTEC 4MATIC 

BlueTEC 4MATIC 

4MATIC BlueEFFICIENCY 

Market launch 11/2011 11/2011 11/2011 

Engine series OM651 OM642 M276 

Engine variant DE22LA DE30LA DES35 

Rated torque (Nm at rpm) 500/1600 –1800 620/1600 – 2400 370/3500 – 5250 

Acceleration 0 –100 km/h (s) 9.0 7.4 7.6 

Top speed (km/h) 210 224 235 

Emissions category Euro 6 Euro 6 Euro 5 

Cd value 0.32 0.33 0.34 

Transmission gearshift type Automatic Automatic Automatic 

Turning circle (m) 11.80 11.80 11.80 

Curb weight/payload (kg) 2150/800 2175/775 2130/770 

Perm. gross vehicle weight (kg) 2950 2950 2900 

Max. roof load (kg) 100 100 100 

Perm. trailer load, braked/unbraked (kg) 750/2950 5 750/3500 750/3500 

Open luggage compartment capacity behind rear seat (l) 690 690 690 

Open luggage compartment capacity behind driver’s seat (l) 1210 1210 1210 

Max. luggage capacity – behind driver’s seat (l) 2010 2010 2010 

Tank capacity/reserve (l) 70/11.0 70/11.0 78/10.0 

Fuel consumption, urban (l/100 km) 7.0 – 7.6 7.8 – 8.4 10.9 –11.3 

Fuel consumption, extra-urban (l/100 km) 5.4 – 5.8 6.3 – 6.8 7.1– 7.4 

Fuel consumption, combined (l/100 km) 6.0 – 6.5 6.8 – 7.4 8.5 – 8.8 

CO2 emissions combined (g/km) 158 –170 179 –194 199 – 206 

Wheel designation, front 7.5 J x 17 H2 7.5 J x 17 H2 8 J x 18 H2 

Wheel designation, rear 7.5 J x 17 H2 7.5 J x 17 H2 8 J x 18 H2 

Tyres/wheels, front 235/65 R17 235/65 R17 104V 255/55 R18 

Tyres/wheels, rear 235/65 R17 235/65 R17 104V 255/55 R18 

1 Load in ready-to-drive condition with driver (68 kg), luggage (7 kg), tank 90% full 2 At perm. GVW 3 Incl. number-plate adapter (5 mm) 4 With trailer coupling incl. protective cap (optional extra) 

5 2950 kg corresponds to a retrofit arrangement; if the manufacturer’s optional equipment is subsequently installed, the towed load is 3500 kg 

The very latest – certificated – data may be found at http://productinfo.mercedes-benz.com


2.399 

ca. 2.014 

26°1 

ca. 11,8 m 

880 

1.458 

1.648 

1.926 


ca. 2.991 

202 1 

4.149 

2.708 

349 

1.796 

1.540 

1.485 

475 

508 

2.915 

4.804 

1.059 

4.922 3+4 


Dimensions (ML 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC/ML 350 4MATIC BlueEFFICIENCY) 

357 

1.528 

1.482 

729 

490 

17° 1 

992 

902 

1.663 

2.141 

1.700 

1.046 

ca. 5,7 m 

1.009 

1.122 4 

The ML 250 BlueTEC 4MATIC comes with a chassis lowered by 10 mm as standard. The dimensions, shown in mm, are average values for the unladen, 

standard-specification vehicle. 

25° 1 

839 

2.195 

1.987 

761 

min. 13° 2+4 

37


Competitors 

>56-431741 

M-Class BMW X5 Porsche Cayenne 

Highlights Highlights Highlights 

(+) Latest injection and BlueTEC technology 

(+) Segment-leading assistance systems 

(+) Largest load compartment of up to 2010 litres 

(+) Fuel consumption < 160 g 

(+) 6-cylinder in-line petrol engines, fully variable 

valve lift 

(+) Agile suspension with “Dynamic Drive” roll 

control 

(+) Intuitive iDrive operation and heads-up 

display 

(+) Full-hybrid model: V6 and electric motor 

with clutch 

(+) Rear axle differential: with 100% inter-wheel 

lock for off-road operation 

(+) Dynamic permanent all-wheel drive and 

ceramic brakes 

Drive systems & the environment Drive systems & the environment Drive systems & the environment 

The entire M-Class engine range is characterised 

by high performance combined with exemplary 

efficiency. The ideal partner is the equally 

smooth, fast-shifting 7G-TRONIC PLUS. 

The advanced injection and turbocharging 

technology of the R6 and V8 engines leads to 

impressive power delivery. The lack of a start/ 

stop function is a major weakness, however. 

Handling Handling Handling 

The optional AIRMATIC and the ACTIVE CURVE 

SYSTEM with roll stabilisation, available for 

the first time, provide additional comfort and 

driving dynamics. Top feature for off-road: the 

ON&OFFROAD package incl. six transmission 

modes. 

The dynamic suspension has adequate comfort 

reserves. The lack of off-road features compromises 

performance on difficult terrain. There 

are major shortcomings when towing a trailer 

on slippery roads. 

Safety Safety Safety 

Thanks to unique selling points such as 

ATTENTION ASSIST, Night View Assist PLUS, 

active Lane Keeping Assist and PRE-SAFE 

Brake ® , the new M-Class is a leader in its 

segment. Thanks to the active bonnet, the 

same is also true when it comes to pedestrian 

protection. 

Hardly any assistance systems apart from a 

(passive) lane-change assistant. The bi-xenon 

headlamps only have variable light distribution 

on bends. Nor are there any sidebags in the 

rear. 

Comfort Comfort Comfort 

Seat design has been conceived for comfort on 

long journeys and optimum lateral support. The 

backrest can be adjusted to the cargo position 

or folded forward completely for a load compartment 

of up to 2010 litres. 

Options such as a third seat row or a massage 

function in the front are welcome plus points. 

The 2-section tailgate is another typical 

BMW feature. The luggage capacity is up to 

1750 litres. 

Multimedia systems Multimedia systems Multimedia systems 

High-quality Harman Kardon ® Logic7 ® surround 

sound system with an output of 830 W. Practical 

features: free internet access with billing via 

personal mobile phone contract and quick loading 

of pages via UMTS. 

The BMW Individual sound system has an output 

of 825 W. There are two negative aspects 

to the internet access: a contract with BMW is 

required, and pages are slow to load owing to 

EDGE technology. 

Particularly the V8 models including the 

8-speed torque converter automatic achieve 

performance levels worthy of a sports car. 

Very high on-the-road fuel consumption is the 

price to be paid, however. 

The suspension with roll stabilisation exhibits 

pleasing agility and high cornering speeds. Ride 

comfort is however only average, even with air 

suspension. 

Little attention is given to active safety in the 

Cayenne. The available passive systems include 

a lane-change assistant and proximity cruise 

control with a brief braking impulse when a 

collision threatens. 

Numerous seating variants with functions such 

as seat ventilation improve travelling comfort. 

The rear seat unit can be flexibly moved by up 

to 160 mm. The maximum load capacity is just 

1690 litres. 

The high-end Burmester surround sound system 

with an output of over 1000 W is exclusive 

and expensive. It provides the rear seat entertainment 

with concert-hall-quality sound.


VW Touareg 

Highlights 

(+) Full-hybrid model: V6 and electric motor 

with clutch 

(+) V8 TDI with 250 kW (340 hp) and 800 newton 

metres 

(+) “Dynamic Light Assist” and autonomous 

emergency braking 

Drive systems & the environment 

The V6 TDI engine is available in two output 

levels: in combination with the 8-speed torque 

converter automatic it is an efficient unit, 

however the V6 FSI petrol engine feels underpowered 

and is not economical. 

Handling 

The well-balanced air suspension is typical of 

this vehicleʼs character. In the more powerful 

V6 TDI model, off-road performance is considerably 

improved by the optional “Terrain-Tech 

package”. 

Safety 

Preventive belt tensioning and autonomous 

emergency braking score positive points. 

The innovative “Dynamic Light Assist” excludes 

oncoming traffic and vehicles ahead from the 

high-beam light cone. 

Comfort 

The seats also reinforce the claim to comfort, 

with e.g. active ventilation. As in the Cayenne, 

the rear seat unit can be moved by 160 mm. 

A maximum load capacity of 1642 litres is however 

rather disappointing. 

Multimedia systems 

Good sound quality is provided by the Dynaudio 

surround sound system with 620 W, although 

this cannot make up for one major disadvantage: 

no rear seat entertainment system is 

available. 


Summary 


Thanks to new and enhanced technology as well as ultimate flexibility, the new 

M-Class occupies the leading position in its segment. Here, the worldʼs most aerodynamically 

efficient standard SUV has faced competition from the “dynamic” 

BMW X5 (since 2007), among others. The lack of a complete air suspension system, 

however, would suggest that the X5 is not capable of achieving maximum 

performance in terms of either ride comfort or off-road handling. 

The Touareg and Cayenne share the same heritage (since 2010) – but while the 

VW has taken the more comfortable, practical route, the Porsche occupies a significantly 

sportier position. Their operating systems, with touchscreen monitors, 

have also been laid out differently. In the case of the Cayenne, the centre console 

is inundated with buttons, whereas the layout in the Touareg is much less cluttered. 

An identical offering from both, on the other hand, is the so-called parallel 

hybrid version with V6 TFSI petrol engine (245 kW/333 hp) and electric motor 

(34 kW/47 hp). Purely electric operation, however – up to a maximum of two kilometres, 

at up to 50 km/h – remains for the most part a theoretical concept, and 

there is certainly no comparison with diesel consumption values. Furthermore, 

the hybrid is almost exclusively offered in a full equipment version. 

This is a problem common to all competitors with the expensive Porsche at the 

forefront: compared with the M-Class, generally significantly inferior standard 

equipment. Even a Bluetooth connection for mobile phones attracts an additional 

charge. But overall, the M-Class impresses as the best all-rounder – thanks to its 

leading credentials, primarily in terms of comfort and fuel consumption, innovative 

safety equipment and the largest load compartment in the segment. 

39

The new M-Class. 

The main sales arguments: 

Sporty and unmistakable: the M-Class 

Distinctive contours and horizontal lines make 

the W166 series more masculine and athletic. 

Characteristic features include the elongated side 

lines, the hallmark M-Class C-pillar and the typical 

SUV large chrome-style underguard. 

Large range of innovative assistance systems 

The M-Class offers numerous innovative 

assistance systems: highlights include Active 

Parking Assist and the Driving Assistance 

package Plus (23P) with Active Blind Spot Assist 

and Active Lane Keeping Assist. 

Important dates: 

• Premiere in Stuttgart: 8.6.2011 

• Sales release: 11.7.2011 

• Europe premiere at IAA Frankfurt: 13.9.2011 

• ECE market launch: 21.11.2011 

High-quality ergonomic interior 

The sporty character of the new M-Class also 

permeates the interior with its high-quality finish. 

The interior is designed for optimum ergonomics 

and superb practicality for driver and passengers. 

The latest generation of technology 

The new COMAND Online (527) offers internet 

access, integrated Speed Limit Assist and an 

improved 3D map display. 

Spacious all-rounder 

The M-Class sets the standard with its 2010 litres 

of load compartment capacity behind the first row 

of seats. There is room for three child seats on the 

rear seats, while four large golf bags will fit behind 

the rear seats. The trailer coupling (550) can be 

used to tow loads of up to 3500 kg. 

Powerful and efficient engines 

The M-Class engines deliver up to 23% more 

power, while the fuel consumption is up to 28% 

lower than comparable output classes in the 

W164 series. Comprehensive BlueEFFICIENCY 

measures such as the ECO start/stop function 

also help reduce fuel consumption. 

Find out more: enter the ADVANTAGESonline ID (e.g. >56-431221) from the brochure into the search field on ADVANTAGESonline and find out more about the topic! 

http://productinfo.mercedes-benz.com 

For internal use only.

View M – Class Brochure

You also want an ePaper? Increase the reach of your titles

Delete template?

Save as template?