What can be cooked from squid: quick and tasty

In the summer of 2011, Mercedes-Benz officially unveiled the ML-Class 3 generation SUV in the body of the W166, the world premiere of which took place at the Frankfurt International Motor Show in September.

The car is built on the upgraded M-class platform of the previous generation, and with the same wheelbase of 2,915 mm, it became 24 mm longer (4,804 mm), 16 mm wider (1,926) and 19 mm lower (1,796) ...

Configuration and prices Mercedes-Benz ML-Class 2015.

The appearance of the new Mercedes-Benz ML-Class W166 is evolutionary - the car has received a massive front bumper, an oversized radiator grille and optics with smoother outlines.

On the sidewalls of the new Mercedes ML 2013, embossed stampings appeared, and new taillights of a different shape became larger. For new items are offered wheel disks with updated design, available in diameters from 17 to 21 inches.

The interior of the Mercedes ML-Class 2013 has changed more noticeably. Along with improved trim materials, the front fascia design has also changed, in which you feel the style inspired by the flagship sedan.

The middle part of the panel is made of wood, the center console has become wider and sports aluminum inserts. The proprietary COMAND control system has also been updated, and optionally, customers can order a panoramic sunroof.

At first, the new Mercedes ML W166 was offered with three engines. The most modest of these is the 2.1-liter four-cylinder diesel on the ML 250 Bluetec version with 204 hp. (500 Nm).

The more powerful version of the ML 350 Bluetec SUV is powered by a 3.0-liter V6 diesel producing 258 hp. (619 Nm), accelerating the car from zero to hundreds in 7.5 seconds and providing a top speed of 224 km / h.

The ML 350 BlueEfficiency modification is equipped with a 306-horsepower petrol "six", delivering 370 Nm of maximum torque and allowing a top speed of 235 km / h. Top of the range is the ML 500 with a 4.7-liter V8 delivering 408 hp. With it, the SUV starts up to a hundred in 5.6 seconds, and the maximum speed is limited to 250 km / h.

Regardless of the selected engine type, all of them are paired with a seven-speed automatic transmission 7G-Tronic Plus and have a proprietary 4MATIC all-wheel drive system.

Of course, Mercedes-Benz paid great attention to safety, therefore the ML-Class 2013 is equipped with many different systems, including night vision system with pedestrian recognition, driver fatigue detection, blind spot monitoring, automatic braking in a dangerous situation, and also many others.

In turn, the comfort of the driver and passengers is designed to take care of the suspension, which dampens all unwanted vibrations, and an optional Airmatic air suspension is available, which has six different options work, depending on the type of roadway.

Russian prices for the new Mercedes ML-Class 2015 start at 3,550,000 rubles for the base version with a 3.0-liter diesel engine of 249 hp, and for the top-end version of the ML 500 dealers ask for at least 4,650,000 rubles. We are also supplied with a "charged" with a 525-horsepower 5.5-liter engine, which will cost 6,500,000 rubles.

In the summer of 2014, the initial version of the ML 250 BlueTEC reached the dealers, for which they ask from 3,450,000 rubles.

While Mercedes-Benz will always remain the quintessential German automaker, its M-SUV is American at heart. Built in Alabama and aimed at the American market, the ML was one of the first luxury crossovers. Its sizable size and gluttonous engines are much more comfortable in the United States than at home in Germany.

Continuous improvement

Regardless of the origin, each generation of Mercedes-Benz ML cars has been getting better than the last. This is especially true for the second generation (2006-2011), which replaced the original model that had been produced for 8 years, which was notable for lack of reliability and mediocre build quality. Therefore, users strongly recommend that buyers of used M-class cars consider offers from 2006 model year. The third generation (2012-2015) represents a significant evolution of the previous one and has even more power and extended functionality... And in 2016, following the new naming scheme for Mercedes-Benz SUVs, the M-class was renamed the GLE class.

While it is the undisputed choice for a mid-sized luxury SUV, there are many decent and less expensive competitors in the premium segment. Before opting for this German American, users are advised to consider all offers.

Third generation

The latest Mercedes-Benz ML range (chassis 166) debuted in 2012 and remained in production until 2015. The exterior design of the M-Class struck a balance between the traditional lines of this model range and the design of other vehicles from the manufacturer. The series has a proven track record for its consistently high build quality and its all-encompassing sense of reliability. Other key strengths of the class include a varied engine range, comfortable seating, and excellent brakes. However, having just 5 seats is less family-friendly than some of the competitors offering third-row seating.

At the beginning, the III generation of the M-class was represented by 4 models: ML350 with a V6 engine, a diesel ML350 Bluetec equipped with a V8 ML550 and a Mercedes-Benz ML 63 AMG hot rod. All of them were equipped with a 7-speed automatic transmission and (initially) 4Matic all-wheel drive. In 2013, a rear-wheel drive version of the ML350 was added.

The Mercedes-Benz ML 350 models had a 3.5-liter gasoline 302-horsepower 370-Nm V6 engine, and the ML350 Bluetec had a 3-liter V8 turbodiesel with 240 horsepower. with. and 617-N ∙ m of torque. The ML550 was powered by a 402-horsepower, 600-Nm twin-turbo V8, while the ML63 AMG featured a 5.5-liter twin-turbo 700-Nm V8 with 518-horsepower. with., which could be upgraded to 550 liters. with. and 759 N ∙ m by purchasing an additional package. The AMG model was further enhanced by active roll stabilization, sports suspension and steering tuning, 20-inch wheels, stronger brakes and special interior trim.

Restyling 2015

In 2015, 2 engines (and model names) were replaced. The diesel version was replaced by a 2.1-liter 4-cylinder 200 hp engine. with. and a torque of 500 N ∙ m. This model was named ML250 Bluetec. The ML550 was replaced by the ML400, which had a turbocharged 3L V6 delivering 329bhp. with. and a torque of 480 N ∙ m. The ML350 and ML63 AMG retained their engines, but all 4 got an economical auto-stop feature.

Aside from the powerplant change, the changes were modest: in 2013, the electronics were improved, new safety features, massage front seats and an off-road package appeared. In 2014, the ML350 was available with the same Mercedes-Benz ML AMG styling cues as the ML550.

Equipment

All third-generation M-Class models are equipped with standard features such as a sunroof, power liftgate, heated power front seats, the latest COMAND electronics, Bluetooth and emergency communications. Additional options include a panoramic sunroof, ignition and keyless entry, and in later versions, "multi-circuit" front seats with massage functions. The Off-Road Package since 2013 includes Adaptive Air Suspension for improved handling and ride quality, as well as a two-speed transfer case, six-mode terrain selector and underbody protection.

Users were impressed by the Mercedes-Benz ML's high performance and strong brakes. Cornering is confident enough, but the power steering is too little effort and lacks the subtle feedback that drivers have come to expect from cars. German company... Interior quality is excellent as expected, although the rounder dashboard design looks more like a Jeep Grand Cherokee than other Mercedes-Benz models.

Second generation

Produced from 2006 to 2011. While the car was similar in appearance to the current model, this variant featured a set of engines, hydraulic rather than electric steering, poorer interior quality, and less user-friendly electronics compared to today's competitors.

The second generation of M-class cars was offered in only 2 variants. The ML350 came with a 3.5-liter 268-horsepower V6 engine, while the ML500 was powered by a 5-liter V8 with 302 horsepower. with. Both models were equipped in the same way.

In 2007, 2 more options were added to the line. The Mercedes-Benz ML 320 CDI featured a relatively economical diesel engine (215 hp, 540 Nm torque), which was not approved for emissions in California, and the performance-oriented ML63 AMG was equipped with a 6.2-liter V8 with a capacity of 503 liters. with. It also featured a number of other handling and efficiency improvements.

2008 restyling

In 2008, the ML500 was replaced by the ML550. The model boasted a more environmentally friendly 5.5-liter V8 with 382 hp. with. The following year, a 50-state-agreed renamed Mercedes-Benz ML 320 Bluetec appeared, as well as a base rear-wheel drive modification of the ML350. Each ML had a front and rear facelift and an updated COMAND interface with Bluetooth phone connectivity.

In 2010, the diesel model became the ML350 Bluetec and received more torque, but the big news was the addition of the ML450 hybrid. Thanks to a petrol-electric hybrid system developed in collaboration with BMW and General Motors, this ML is powered by a 3.5-liter V6, two electric motors and an improved transmission with a total output of 335 hp. with. Fuel consumption reached 13 liters per 100 km, which is good, but the cheaper Bluetec managed to reduce this parameter to 13.5 liters per 100 km.

Restoring trust

According to reviews, the second generation Mercedes-Benz ML has returned the feeling of unshakable reliability that you would expect from the legendary manufacturer. With the optional air suspension, the ride quality is impressively smooth. The generous driver's space is matched by excellent support for premium multi-contour seats and premium trim. The main drawbacks of the range include fussy electronic steering, lazy acceleration of the V6 engine and operating costs higher than some other high-end SUVs.

First generation

The original Mercedes M-Class (W163) debuted in 1998 with the ML320, which was equipped with a 3.2L 215HP V6 engine. 1999 saw the addition of more standard equipment and the more powerful and luxurious ML430, powered by a V8 powertrain. Improvements in 2000 included an interior upgrade and the ability to fit a third row of seats on all M-Class trims. And since 2001, the TeleAid emergency call system has become a standard.

From 2000 to 2003, Mercedes-Benz was the first in the high-performance luxury SUV market to offer the ML55 AMG. The limited-edition ML had a 5.4-liter 342-horsepower V8 with 510 Nm of torque and a sport suspension.

Bad start

Early Mercedes-Benz ML models suffered from extensive quality control problems that often resulted in hefty repair bills, so users are advised against buying used cars from this period.

The M-class underwent a redesign and improvement in 2002 when more than 1,100 parts were modified and the ML430 was replaced by the ML500. The model with the W164 chassis featured a 5-liter V8 engine with 288 hp. with. Characteristic features there are new bumpers, transparent headlights and modified mirrors. In late 2003, the ML350 replaced the ML320, equipped with a large 3.5-liter 232-horsepower V6 engine.

The beautiful and elegant ML 350 Mercedes has been on the market for a long time. But the path to success was not so simple as it seems to us now. The car first appeared in Europe in 1997, but with the W163 index. The car was in for a complete failure. For residents of European countries, such a Mercedes is completely unsuitable, the Russians considered that it had an insufficiently pretentious design.

It is worth paying tribute to the manufacturers, as they did not give up. And after some time, a crossover reappeared on the market, but completely different. The updated W163 (but already with the ml 350 index) had excellent qualities both inside and out. And already in 2011, manufacturers presented the third generation ml 350.

Exterior

Mercedes ML 350 White

The third generation ml350 is not innovative in terms of the exterior of the car. The manufacturers decided not to change their traditions: the model is made in a classic, restrained style without any frills, which distinguishes it from other brands of cars.

Cold-bloodedness and calmness in appearance - that's what made this car a benchmark among business-class cars.

The highlight of the whole series is that the 166 body looks like a little sloping back and ends with a spoiler. Also, a huge wheelbase has remained a constant attribute of the crossover. The rear lights of the car have become larger and shifted to the fenders. The radiator grille of the renewed ml 350 bluetec 4matic is painted black and has also increased in size.

The running lights are now located in the chrome elements of the car. By the way, there are more chrome elements themselves - the manufacturers wanted to give the car impressiveness and power in this way, which they did well.

In addition, the manufacturers decided to add variety to the color scheme, where many different shades have now been added: from blue tanzanite to beige pearls.

It is also worth noting the overall dimensions of the ML 350 bluetec 4matic. The front bumper of the updated version has become simply huge. The body is made of durable aluminum and magnesium alloys.

Interior

Salon Mercedes-benz ML 350

The salon is also calm and elegant. The seats and steering wheel are upholstered in expensive leather. There are natural wood inserts on the doors and front panel. The lamps integrated directly into the rearview mirror provide soft and pleasant light throughout the interior.

In addition to all of the above, there are changes in the dashboard: now a certain number of buttons are replaced by a dedicated joystick, making the dashboard look more assembled and compact. The steering wheel is now equipped with more buttons.

The center armrest is equipped with a cup holder and a connector for various devices, if necessary, it can be removed. Thanks to this function, three passengers can be accommodated in the rear. But, of course, two people will be much more comfortable.

Even at high speeds, the vehicle has high noise insulation. The trunk accommodates 690 Liters, which is a record for a car of this class. Since the rear seats can be transformed, there can be more space. The deflectors have also changed: the oval shape has remained in the past, it has been replaced by clear rectangles.

Engines

Mercedes 350 ML-Class

The third generation of this Mercedes-Benz is presented to motorists in two versions:

• ML 350 4matic BlueEfficiency. Gasoline engine V6. Volume 3 and a half liters. Power - 306 Horse power , which is just a great indicator for such a colossus. The torque is 370 Nm. The most popular engine in this range.
• ML 350 CDI 4matic. A diesel engine created by the Germans specifically for the Russian market. Power 240 horsepower.
• ML 500. The old, familiar power unit has not disappeared from the lineup. It still develops 400 horsepower.

But it is worth noting that buying a special diesel engine will cost significantly more than a gasoline one. So, the cost of the car will exceed 3 million rubles.

Complete set

The basic equipment of the car includes:

• Climate control system
• Airbag
• On-board electronics display
• Radio cassette
• Controller for the entire interior multimedia system
• Multiple off-road driving modes (switch button located on the steering wheel center tunnel)
• Tire pressure monitoring system
• Optics remote access device
• Heated rear windows
• Windscreen wipers equipped with rain sensor
• Heated front seats
• Traction control system
• Fog lights
• Cruise control
• Automatic speech recognition
• Hill start assist system
• Power seats with memory
• Collision avoidance system
• Anti-lock braking system

As options, manufacturers offer:

• A roof with a panoramic view
• Improved alloy wheels with original pattern
• Improved interior lighting system
• Upgraded climate control system
• Heated rear seats
• OEM navigation system
• Power steering
• Air suspension
• Blind spot and lane monitoring system

Of course, the price of a car depends very much on the options chosen, but each of the packages has a very reasonable price. In general, all additional equipment will cost an additional 500 thousand rubles.

Competitors

Mercedes ml350 is unique in its kind. But even so, many people have doubts about which car is better to choose.

Volkswagen Touareg 3.0 TDI AT
Another five-seater German crossover. This is precisely the reason for the choice between a Merc and a Tuareg. The quality and safety of the machines are at the same high level. But the issues of power, configuration and price are still better to clarify, if in doubt. For example, Volkswagen can boast of better handling on the road, while Mercedes has better ride comfort. It is worth choosing according to your needs and desires.

Specifications

Mercedes-benz 350ML

Mercedes ML 350 is considered one of the best business class cars. The happy owners claim that he does not even drive, but floats along the highway. When driving, no road irregularities are felt (which is a definite plus in Russia), and the crossover copes perfectly with turns. It is worth mentioning once again the excellent sound insulation of the car.

The seven-speed automatic transmission provides smooth gear shifting without any jerking or jerking. In addition, it is able to adapt itself to the driver's driving.

Quite economical fuel consumption is good news - 15 liters for a distance of 100 km in the city and a little over 9 on the track... And this is at high speed!

The new 350 can take acceleration to 100 km / h in 8.4 seconds(and this despite the fact that the weight of 350 w164 is also not small, 2035 kg), and the maximum speed is 225 km / h.

The SUV is equipped with an all-wheel drive system, which will ensure stability and reliability in all situations: starting a movement, wet or icy road, sharp turns.

Suspension ml350 w166 front independent, double wishbone. The rear is also independent, but multi-link, which guarantees smooth movement on Russian roads.

• The prestigious five-seater Mercedes-Benz amazes with its impressive dimensions - 4780 * 1910 * 1820 mm.
• The battery for the Mercedes needs 173 kW and 353 * 175 * 190 mm, and the starter is 1.4 kW, 12 V.
• The wheel size for Mercedes Benz ml350 is 235/65 R17.
• The volume of the gas tank really pleases car owners - 95 liters... It is very convenient for any car consumption.

Advantages and disadvantages

Advantages:

1. Versatility... This SUV can be used as a professional, family (the interior and trunk are really huge, which is just necessary for family trips) and even a sports car.
2. Ease of travel... Car owners note that the cabin provides maximum comfort, and drivers do not get tired even on a long route.
3. Small turning radius. This allows you to turn the car even on a small narrow road.
4. Mercedes ML is easy to drive and agile on the road
5. Quality... German quality in the automotive market is undeniable. And this is one of the biggest reasons why Mercedes finds its buyer so easily.
6. Environmental aspect... When fuel is burned, the minimum amount of harmful substances is released into the atmosphere.
7. Security... Mercedes really are reliable, and the Mercedes benz ml 350 proves this once again.
8. Protection against erroneous gear shifting

Disadvantages:

1. Expensive parts and maintenance... This is a problem for almost all Mercedes in Russia.
2. Tax... Since the power of this car is high (from 200 horsepower), it is necessary to pay for this pleasure regularly. The base rate for such an SUV is 7.5 to 15
3. Eats butter... For some owners of Mercedes ML 350 bluetooth, this has become a real problem. But, as already mentioned, this is a misconception. For its size, the SUV is quite economical.

Price

The price, of course, for the Mercedes-Benz ML 350 is also rather big. After updating and equipping Mersa with new gadgets, it raised the initial cost up to 2900 thousand... People with lower-than-average incomes, accustomed to easier city travel, consider this to be unrealistic money. In addition, there are rumors that the car's doors are knocking or it won't start, but this is not the case. If you follow the maintenance schedule, then everything will be fine. ML350 is ideal for those who like fast driving, convenience and comfort, as well as true connoisseurs of German quality. The car really costs that kind of money.

The crossover segment is developing at a very rapid pace. Many people love large SUVs, but in view of the obvious facts and circumstances, they switch to more compact cars. But it is difficult to completely abandon jeep-like cars. Therefore, the huge SUV is being replaced by a more modest crossover in size.

One of the best SUVs on the market today is a Mercedes product. At the moment, it produces several variations of crossovers, from modest urban compacts to full-fledged huge SUVs.

And literally somewhere in the very center of the line is the updated Mercedes ML model. The car is the perfect creation for urban roads and light off-road conditions. Not surprisingly, the demand for the ML series has always been and remains enormous.

In fact, it was in ML that buyers found the very same the golden mean between the G-Class and GLK models. The capabilities of the new Mercedes ML make it possible to fully satisfy the needs of even the most fastidious drivers.

Well, it is interesting to see what the ML model of 2015-2016 has become, what innovations the manufacturer has come up with, how much the crossover has changed compared to its predecessor.

In short, we can say that the car has become prettier, more technologically advanced and more economical. But such a car deserves a large, full-fledged review.

Photos of design Mercedes ML 2015-2016

In principle, when compared with the previous version of the ML, the novelty has not changed so much. At least the image remained recognizable. This is even good, because ML is loved precisely for its excellent exterior. The changes have taken place in favor of modern requirements and innovations.

The front part is decorated with a large false radiator grille with three horizontal chrome strips, a powerful bumper, also supplemented with chrome, optics that are relevant for our time with an impressive number of LEDs. Daytime running lights are located in the same body with the head optics and are made like cilia. For the fog lights, there are separate sections along the edges of the bumper, and they are also tape-shaped. The ribbed hood and impressive windshield only in the best way emphasize the monumentality and sophistication of the car in front.

From the side we see not just a crossover, but a muscular horse with inflated arches, stampings, powerful doors. The almost perfectly flat roof line is complemented by practical and attractive roof rails. The car was "shod" in light-alloy wheels with a diameter of 20 inches, which perfectly fit into the ideal radii of the wheel arches. We also notice the LEDs here. Namely on the housings of the rear-view mirrors, which repeat the turn signals.

The feed looks monumental and powerful. At the same time, designers do not forget about the practical side for a minute, creating a comfortable tailgate, stylish and effective optics, and underbody protection. Plus we see an impressive spoiler over the glass of the luggage compartment, chrome elements and simply magnificent design solutions around the entire perimeter of the car.

We strongly advise you to look at additional photos and video materials that we have prepared specifically for this review. They will help you fully appreciate all the delights that the specialists from the Mercedes company have prepared for their updated Mercedes ML crossover.

Photos of the interior of the new Mercedes Benz 2015-2016

What do you expect from a salon when it comes to a car like a Mercedes? Excellent quality materials, perfect fit of elements, high level ergonomics and simply great design.

What do we see when we look into the Mercedes ML salon? Everything that was described above. Indeed, the car's interior is perfectly executed. Maybe these are too loud words, but you need to face the facts.

The driver got at his disposal a large, comfortable four-spoke multifunction steering wheel, behind which two large tachometer and speedometer wells are hidden. Between them there was a place for a modern color electronic on-board computer, which provides the ability to obtain a variety of data about the car and its systems.

We move to the right, and we see in front of us a powerful center console, where there was a place for several blocks of buttons, a pair of air ducts and, of course, a color touchscreen multimedia display. Everything is actively decorated with chrome piping.

We can talk endlessly about the chairs, since it is difficult to find competitors in terms of the level of comfort and adjustment possibilities. But still we will get by with a shorter description, adding that in such seats you will feel great, no matter how long your journey may be.

The same can be said about the second row of seats, where there is a clear division into two seats. The comfort of the passenger in the middle will not suffer much from this. The salon is fully five-seater, taking into account the driver, and there is enough space behind in all directions so that three people can comfortably drive and drive and drive ...

Of course, the materials used are of very high quality, even in the simplest configurations. Finding fault with the fit of interior elements, seams or gaps between the plastic is impossible and with a great desire. Mercedes continues to delight its customers with an excellent approach to their work. For this, these cars are so loved.

Equipment

It's no secret that Mercedes equips all its models very, very richly. The Mercedes ML is definitely not an exception, since this is a fairly serious crossover.

It makes no sense to list all the equipment, since it will take an infinite amount of time, however, we will still stop our attention on some of the main options, forming a kind of list. So, the list of the most interesting equipment can include:

• light-alloy wheels 20 inches;
• LED daytime running lights;
• LED fog lights;
• LED repeaters for turn signals on the outside rear-view mirrors;
• multimedia complex;
• satellite navigation system;
• advanced audio system;
• a set of airbags;
• Active Curve System;
• Active Lane Keeping Assist;
• MB COMAND system with three years of navigation system updates;
• electric drive in the front seats;
• adjustable lateral support;
• system of massage, heating and ventilation in the front seats;
• tracking system physical condition driver;
• driver awakening system if he fell asleep;
• parking assistance system;
• tracking system for dead zones;
• panoramic roof, etc.

The price of the new Mercedes ML 2015-2016

Since the beginning of this year, the car has been available in its homeland, Germany. In the spring, the car will be brought to other European countries. Closer to the summer, it is worth waiting for the updated Mercedes ML in Russia.

If we talk about prices, then a fairly decent amount should be prepared. Let's face it, every dollar is worth it to own a car like this.

And the amount required for the purchase will be approximately from 58 thousand dollars. ML400 version starts at $ 63K... Similar prices should be expected here, in Russia.

Specifications Mercedes ML W166 (2015-2016)

Mercedes says that you need to forget about the ML550 version, since a more modest power unit will take the place of this impressive engine in terms of its volume. The volume of the new engine for the ML400 version will be 3.0 liters. The six cylinders and twin turbochargers deliver 329 horsepower and 479 Nm of torque.

The motor is equipped with a seven-speed robotized gearbox, supplemented by paddle shifters for manual gear control. Due to the work of the permanent all-wheel drive system, you can feel all the delights of both the engine and the entire car as a whole.

According to the manufacturer, their twin-turbo three-liter engine consumes about 13 liters of gasoline in the city and about 10 liters on the highway, which gives an average consumption of 11.7 liters per 100 kilometers.

Of course, the line of power units for ML is not limited to one motor. For example, the ML250 version is equipped with a four-cylinder diesel engine with a volume of 2.1 liters and 200 horsepower with a torque of 500 Nm. This motor is intended to replace the old ML350 BlueTec diesel.

The top version of AMG will remain unchanged. The ML63 will be equipped with an eight-cylinder power unit with 518 horsepower and 698 Nm of torque.

All cars are already equipped as standard with the 4Matic all-wheel drive system. But there is an exception for the ML350 that allows you to order a rear-wheel drive crossover.

Video test drive of the new Mercedes ML 2016-2017

Output

Mercedes never ceases to delight us with its successful updates. It would seem that the car has become a little smaller, but it has added in all other components. So the updated Mercedes ML is a modern, high-tech, eco-friendly, comfortable car with impressive off-road capabilities.

Of course, such a crossover will become a real decoration of any garage, and will stand out favorably against the background of the gray stream of cars in the city. The demand for ML continues to be consistently high. But is this amazing ?!

The third generation of Mercedes-Benz M-class, beloved by Russians, was officially presented on the first day of December 2011 in St. Petersburg. The world premiere of the updated crossover from Stuttgart Mercedes-Benz ML (W166) took place a little earlier - in early autumn as part of the Frankfurt Auto Show.

The second generation Mercedes-Benz M-class W164 was successfully sold on both sides of the ocean (the two previous generations sold more than 1.2 million copies worldwide) ... therefore, the designers did not intend to radically change the appearance of the new Mercedes-Benz ML. As usual, the fresh version of the model has slightly increased in size, keeping the size of the base at 2915 mm. In length: +24 mm (up to 4804 mm), in width +16 mm (up to 1926 mm), and only in height, the Mercedes-Benz M-class crossover "in the 166th body" became 19 mm lower (1796 mm) ...

In the M-class, external continuity from generation to generation is evident. The design changes were carried out by the Mercedes-Benz artists with filigree precision and accuracy, giving the new Mercedes M-Class a greater family resemblance to the rest of the concern's models.
The front part of the third generation Mercedes ML with an adult false radiator grille, passing into the mouth of the air intake located on the front bumper fairing. The droplets of the front lighting are beautifully accentuated by the LED daytime running lights below. running lights... The shape and configuration of the aerodynamic bumper of the new Mercedes-Benz M-Class W166 seem to strive to speak of the high potential of the engines used in the crossover. The sidewalls of the car with two characteristic ribs give the body a swiftness, evoking thoughts of a relationship with the SLS AMG.

The body of the Mercedes-Benz ML crossover is as before the "station wagon", but it looks airy and light thanks to the solutions applied in the stern. Lightweight, almost weightless rear roof pillars merge into the rear side glazing. Such a decision of the stern is not inherent in any other car of this class. The roof is not domed backdoor large and practical, allows access to the luggage compartment with a low loading height. Marker lights with sharp edges extend far into the side of the vehicle. The rear bumper competes in aggressiveness with the front one. Large wheel arches easily accommodate discs from R17 to R21, and if desired, R22. The ML turned out to be beautiful, with a very low air drag coefficient, only 0.32 Cx.

The interior of the new Mercedes M-Class has become more spacious, the front width has increased by 34 mm, and in the back row by 25 mm. The front seats with a pronounced profile perfectly fix their riders (the seats will seem huge to the short and thin ones). Premium finishing materials, leather, polished wood is widely used. True, in the basic configuration, buyers will be expected by soft pliable plastic (but Russians rarely buy this configuration of the cabin). Rustic devices with a black-and-white screen of the on-board computer slightly spoil the picture. The multi-function four-spoke steering wheel fits perfectly in your hand. In expensive versions, there is a central console with a large display (17.8 cm) of the Comand multimedia complex, and a monitor (11.4 cm) is simpler in ML. There is climate control. The ergonomics are familiar to Mercedes-Benz owners (the article is a general overview, there is no point in listing the options further, since there are really a great many of them). Passengers in the back row are not as comfortable as in the front.
The interior has not increased in length, but the backrests have received tilt angle adjustment.
The luggage compartment in the travel (five-seater) version is 690 liters, if the second row seats are folded, the volume increases to 2010 liters. It's nice to be inside - everything around is comfortable, light and comfortable.

Talking about the technical characteristics of the third generation Mercedes-Benz ML. Front and rear independent suspension, front double wishbone, rear multi-link, with shock absorbers changing the stiffness. Optionally, the third generation Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with an Airmatic air suspension with an initial Active Curve System for changing the operating parameters of the air bellows and an advanced On and Offroad. The improved package allows you to increase the ground clearance to 28.5 cm and forcibly select one of six driving modes (Auto, Sport, Trailer, Winter, Offroad 1 - light off-road, Offroad 2 - heavy off-road). With an advanced air suspension system, this M-Class Mercedes has serious off-road potential.
Instead of a hydraulic booster, an electric booster from ZF is now installed on all versions of the crossover.
The gearbox is familiar to Mercedes - a seven-speed automatic with an interesting and conveniently located control joystick.
All the third generation M-Class offered by Mercedes-Benz are equipped with a proprietary 4 Matic all-wheel drive system. The feeling of handling and ride comfort of the new ML depends on the suspension installed and the engine used. With a simple spring suspension and shock absorbers with a damping system, depending on the driving style, the car can be comfortable and imposing (unhurried driving), or collected and rigid (aggressive handling). The Mercedes-Benz M-Class equipped with an air suspension is very comfortable, but by adjusting the suspension modes for yourself, it is easy to achieve a sports car's teeth.

Motors of the "third ML", according to the company's engineers, have become 25% more economical, this can only be confirmed by operating experience. From the start of sales, the Mercedes-Benz ML will be available with three engines:

• Turbo diesel four-cylinder 250 BlueTec 2.2 liters (204 hp),
• Turbo diesel V-shaped "six" 350 BlueTec 3 liters (258 HP),
• Gasoline six-cylinder 350 BlueEffisiency 3.5 liters (306 hp).

With a gasoline engine (306 hp), the Mercedes-Benz ML accelerates to a hundred in 7.6 seconds and develops an impressive 235 km / h, while the average fuel consumption is negligible for a car weighing more than 2 tons - 8.5 liters! Diesel units are content with “ridiculous” 6-7 liters of diesel fuel per 100 km of track (in mixed mode).
There are plans to install another eight-cylinder 450 CDI diesel engine on this ML and two petrol engines for the ML 500 and ML63 AMG.

In the US, sales of new items are in full swing, where the new diesel Mercedes ML 350 BlueTec 3 liters (258 hp) costs from $ 50,490. For the petrol Mercedes-Benz ML350 BlueEffisiency 3.5 liters (306 hp) they ask from 48,990 American money.

Sales of the luxury and economical third-generation Mercedes-Benz ML crossovers will begin in Russia in spring 2012. Preliminary Russian prices are already known: the diesel Mercedes-Benz ML350 BlueTec 3 liters (258 hp) will cost from 2,990 thousand rubles, the petrol Mercedes-Benz ML350 BlueEffisiency 3.5 liters (306 hp) is estimated at 2 890 thousand rubles, peremptory Mercedes-Benz ML63 AMG will cost 5 220 thousand rubles