Best spy shots of new Mercedes ML

Our spies capture the most revealing look yet of the new Mercedes ML-Class inside and out.

Auto Express Car Reviews

By Tom Phillips

24th March 2011

Meet the new ML-Class! Our spies have snapped the best pictures yet of Mercedes’ all-new ML-Class SUV testing close to the firm’s base in Germany.

The new car is being developed under the codename W166, and features the firm’s latest design language. Just as with the SLS supercar and new E-Class, the ML features a larger, more upright three-bar grille with a huge three-pointed star at its middle.

The front end features a short, stubby overhang, and while the sheet metal along the car’s flanks is fairly clutter free, the ML retains its shark-fin C-pillar for extra visual drama. At the rear, the ML gets a more squared-off shape and angular LED taillights.

On the inside, the SUV features a larger, plusher interior which gets the latest Mercedes COMAND system and piano-black-backed controls for the stereo.

Under the bonnet, the ML is expected to get Mercedes’ latest engines which, coupled to a loss in weight, should clean up the big off-roader’s act. Engine options are expected to include a 302bhp 3.5-litre V6, a 429bhp 4.6-litre V8, and a 262bhp 3.0-litre diesel. An AMG version arrives in 2012, powered by the new 5.5-litre twin turbo V8.

The ML also adopts the 7G-Tronic seven-speed auto gearbox which is operated by the stalk you can see on the steering column in the interior picture. Stop-start systems are also expected.

Also set to feature are Mercedes’ latest safety systems. This will include blind spot and drowsiness warnings, a fully automated brake that can bring the car to a complete stop even from motorway speeds when an obstruction is detected.

The ML also gets the new brake safety system which debuts in the new A- and B-Class. This detects if a vehicle in front makes an emergency stop and adjusts braking power automatically to ensure that the car sheds as much speed as possible in the available time.

Mercedes is yet to confirm when the new car will arrive, although Frankfurt Motor Show in September seems most likely.

For an alternative review of the latest Mercedes-Benz M-Class visit our sister site carbuyer.co.uk

What Next

For more breaking car news and reviews, subscribe to Auto Express magazine. We'll give you 6 issues for £1 and a free gift!

< Previous Next >

2 Comments

looks like a volkswagen

well...it does!

By tommy060289 on 24 March, 2011, 6:12pm

No Visual Improvements

I agree with the previous comments. My first thoughts were that the lines along the side are very lacking and the contours are flat, ie it looks lke a Touareg. God it's so boring. I have a W164 ML sport, it's looks great and I will be definitely not be thinking of replacing it with the next version just yet. I find even the X3 and Lexus RX much more interesting.

By ml_uk on 24 March, 2011, 8:32pm

You need to register to post comments. Existing members can log in below to comment, otherwise click here to join.