GLE Mercedes ML-Class SUV – W166 (Spy pics & info)

[Nicks]

The lesson from all this? Don’t expect too much off-road potential from the next generation ML Class!

This is pretty dumb conclusion did he mean that we should expect off-road potential from AMG S-class?

 

[Wolfgang]

This is pretty dumb conclusion did he mean that we should expect off-road potential from AMG S-class?

They could have used chains on the ML....

http://www.4x4abc.com/Carlos_adventures/Mount_Washington.html

 

[HighestOfHigh]

As the world's automakers go back to the drawing board on what they need to compete in today's market, both structurally and in terms of product, parts sharing and efficiency are increasingly becoming key concepts. The next-generation of the Mercedes-Benz ML-Class SUV could embrace both concepts with a much closer link to the next G-Class and R-Class (or their successors) as well as more forward-looking powertrains.

Due in the middle of 2011, the next-gen ML is still largely a matter of speculation. Spy shots of an early prototype reveal a smaller body than the current ML, though the wheelbase appears unchanged. We also have several shots of the interior as well.

A few reports have suggested that a diesel-electric hybrid ML-Class is in the works, although a gasoline-electric hybrid like that in the upcoming ML450 Hybrid is almost certain. A plug-in variant of the ML hybrid is even possible, featuring an 80-horsepower electric motor paired with a twin-turbocharged and direct-injected 3.5-liter V-6 and capable of travelling up to 18-miles on electric power alone is also thought to be in the works.

That plug-in hybrid system will draw on elements from the other hybrid programs within Mercedes, including the S400 powertrain. But other elements, including parts and underpinnings, will be shared more closely across the R-Class successor and G-Class vehicles to help achieve economies of scale while still maintaining separate identities. The chassis underpinning the new SUV is also the same design found in the 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee, one of the lasting legacies from the now defunct DaimlerChrysler.

The ML’s dominant position as the consumer 4x4 of choice within Mercedes' lineup won't change, though the focus will increasingly be on efficiency rather than performance. Accordingly, European models will likely get a 2.2-liter four-cylinder diesel engine rated at 204 horsepower. A V-6 diesel rated at 225 horsepower and a 333 horsepower V-6 gasoline engine is also thought to be in the plans. The V-8 engine will gain direct-injection and twin-turbochargers for the AMG model, which is expected to deliver at least 570 horsepower.

- Spy Shots: 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML-Class - MotorAuthority

 

[Merc1]

A 333hp V6 is hopefully onboard for every 2011 "350" model Mercedes throught out the entire range.


M

 

[SKY]

A 333hp V6 is hopefully onboard for every 2011 "350" model Mercedes throught out the entire range.


M

I like it very much too.

 

[Bilal]

What actually happened...

To view this content we will need your consent to set third party cookies.
For more detailed information, see our cookies page.

Accept third party cookies

Seems like a joint effort to me?

 

[GBOY]

4x12 ... LOL! You have to admit, the S-Class is amazing

 

[Merc1]

Listen to the engine...whose engine are we hearing, the ML or the S or the CL???

What they really needed was a G550. It is so interesting to see a Mercedes helpless....don't ask me why.

M

 

[Yaz]

I might be wrong but I don't think that's a 4matic ML. The rear wheels spin and it slides sideway when it's pulling with the S. That's probably the reason they needed the S and hooked them that way (rear wheels closer to each other).


And Marcus I think that's the CL63's engine we're hearing. You can see the wheels spininning.

Oh and why do the brakes squeal on the ML? Could it be they're ceramics or maybe too cold?

 

[Gullwing]

What they really needed was...

Better tires on the ML

 

[Der Hofmeister]

More >> Mercedes-Benz-Blog -- Unmistakable. Unique. Classy. Mercedes-Benz.: PREVIEW – The future Mercedes-Benz SUV range

 

[fortuner]

Looks very promising i look forward to this next gen ML.

 

[SKY]

ML 450 with 408hp and the 500 with 435hp? I would not put my money on this. The difference is too low. I´d expect better a 408hp 450 and a 450hp 500.

Btw, it seems Mercedes won´t produce more V8 diesels, but powerfull hybyds instead.

 

[Der Hofmeister]

ML 450 with 408hp and the 500 with 435hp? I would not put my money on this. The difference is too low. I´d expect better a 408hp 450 and a 450hp 500.

Btw, it seems Mercedes won´t produce more V8 diesels, but powerfull hybyds instead.

The ML 420 CDI version, by all chances, won't be discontinued, but up to now, the specifications of the engine to be used are not known.

Expect a new name, like ML 450 CDI.

 

[cmitch]

I might be wrong but I don't think that's a 4matic ML. The rear wheels spin and it slides sideway when it's pulling with the S. That's probably the reason they needed the S and hooked them that way (rear wheels closer to each other).


And Marcus I think that's the CL63's engine we're hearing. You can see the wheels spininning.

Oh and why do the brakes squeal on the ML? Could it be they're ceramics or maybe too cold?

Definitely not a 4matic. The front wheels didn't turn while the back was spinning. I guess MB is trying to target the low-end SUV customer.

 

[klier]

Why isn't the whole MB crew having an opinion about the interior pic???

What's up with you guys???

 

[Shining Star]

Why isn't the whole MB crew having an opinion about the interior pic???

What's up with you guys???

Didnt' notice it with all the hype surrounding the CLS and F800. I have my doubts about the legitimacy of the photo, but the interior certainly looks good. The center stack appears real, considering what the spy photos have showed us, but the rest could be a guess.

 

[bmer]

The new COMAND system is what I personally find the most interesting feature in the interior. Looks like it might have a touch-pad. Perhaps something similar as the one in the new Audi A8. The other controls are probably for the off-road functions.

 

[cmitch]

Why isn't the whole MB crew having an opinion about the interior pic???

What's up with you guys???

I think the W164 interior is much more stylish. This one looks like they're trying to make it too much like a C-Class.

 

[PHYBENZ]

The roof looks very steeply sloped from the angle...