Shining Star
Chicane Challenger
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M-Class (W166/C292) [Official] 2012 Mercedes-Benz M-Class (W166)
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The Mercedes-Benz W166 is the third generation M-Class ("ML") range of mid-size luxury SUVs. Facelifted versions renamed to GLE and GLE Coupé. Model codes: W166 (SUV), C292 (SUV coupé). Production: July 2011–2019. Model years: 2012–2019.
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It will to those who previously walked away from the ML and shopped for an Audi or BMW based on the fact the ML had a smaller interior. The GL is too large and in some cases too expensive to be a viable alternative.
Wolfgang
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MB prob compared the new M-Class to the E-Class?
rear headroom: 992 mm ( 20 mm more than W212 E-Class )
rear legroom: 729 mm ( 18 mm more than W212 E-Class )
Should the experienced Mercedes-Benz salesman point out the M-Class rear seat may be more spacious than even the E-Class?
Wolfgang
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Gorden Wagener makes some comments in the first vid. 
The Best From Two Worlds: The New M-Class
By Guest Reporter Marcus Schlueter
Seven million test kilometers – that’s the equivalent of 175 times around the world. Dimensions that are difficult to imagine, but in pursuit of one precise goal: to be best of its class on the SUV market. The list of specifications was long and the in-house engineers had to start from the extremely high level of the predecessor model in order to make top marks in the single disciplines of safety, driving dynamics and comfort through to fuel efficiency.
Finally last week – the third generation of the Mercedes-Benz M-Class was presented to the world press. I took a closer look at the premier performance.
In only three days, about 250 journalists from over 24 countries were invited by Mercedes to attend. A variety of workshops provided the opportunity to learn more about the highlights of the M-Class and to finally see the vehicle without the distraction of any stickers when the car was revealed to the cameras in a ceremonious setting.
The idea to build an SUV that would include as yet unattained all-round capabilities began 14 years ago. The first M-Class made its debut in 1997 and established a new segment of the market for premium SUVs. While there was room for optimization potential in on-road driving performance, in comparison to its off-road performance, the goal was to make sure all those gaps were closed in the new generation.
This causes me to wonder why we set so much store in off-road capabilities even though most SUVs are mainly driven on roads. On-site experts provided me with the answer: In this segment our clients expect an all-rounder that can do both: first-class driving dynamics on the road and no concessions in off-road performance.
During the different workshops I attended, I learnt about the following techniques. ECO start/stop and the 7G-TRONIC PLUS system, lightweight construction using aluminum components through to the world-record holder in aerodynamics with a cW value of 0.32. The ACTIVE CURVE SYSTEM with active roll stabilization was one of the most impressive highlights for me. The name speaks for itself and clearly promises a great deal more driving pleasure. The system compensates for the roll angle of the body through bends while at the same time increasing driving stability and therefore safety especially at high speeds.
What does this mean in concrete terms and how does the driver benefit:
To sum up: The third generation of the Mercedes-Benz M-Class unites the best of both worlds. On the one hand it carries strong off-road vehicle genes, and on the other, the propensity to make its passengers feel like they are sitting in the comfort of a premium limousine. The completely overhauled interior is just one of the features that contributes to the high-level of luxury for driver and passenger.
An extensive range of measures puts the M-Class at the top of its segment of the market for noise and driving comfort. To ensure that driving pleasure continues without impairment even after several 100,000 kilometers, the development engineers have not only put chassis and body to the test in the form of test runs all over the world but have also subjected the vehicle to a series of stringent tests in the laboratory. The car body testing facility or road simulation test bench are considered to be among the toughest of tests.
But why don’t you take a look yourself. I, for one, am already looking forward to the possibility of driving the M-Class.
The Best From Two Worlds: The New M-Class
The Best From Two Worlds: The New M-Class
By Guest Reporter Marcus Schlueter
Seven million test kilometers – that’s the equivalent of 175 times around the world. Dimensions that are difficult to imagine, but in pursuit of one precise goal: to be best of its class on the SUV market. The list of specifications was long and the in-house engineers had to start from the extremely high level of the predecessor model in order to make top marks in the single disciplines of safety, driving dynamics and comfort through to fuel efficiency.
Finally last week – the third generation of the Mercedes-Benz M-Class was presented to the world press. I took a closer look at the premier performance.
In only three days, about 250 journalists from over 24 countries were invited by Mercedes to attend. A variety of workshops provided the opportunity to learn more about the highlights of the M-Class and to finally see the vehicle without the distraction of any stickers when the car was revealed to the cameras in a ceremonious setting.
The idea to build an SUV that would include as yet unattained all-round capabilities began 14 years ago. The first M-Class made its debut in 1997 and established a new segment of the market for premium SUVs. While there was room for optimization potential in on-road driving performance, in comparison to its off-road performance, the goal was to make sure all those gaps were closed in the new generation.
This causes me to wonder why we set so much store in off-road capabilities even though most SUVs are mainly driven on roads. On-site experts provided me with the answer: In this segment our clients expect an all-rounder that can do both: first-class driving dynamics on the road and no concessions in off-road performance.
During the different workshops I attended, I learnt about the following techniques. ECO start/stop and the 7G-TRONIC PLUS system, lightweight construction using aluminum components through to the world-record holder in aerodynamics with a cW value of 0.32. The ACTIVE CURVE SYSTEM with active roll stabilization was one of the most impressive highlights for me. The name speaks for itself and clearly promises a great deal more driving pleasure. The system compensates for the roll angle of the body through bends while at the same time increasing driving stability and therefore safety especially at high speeds.
What does this mean in concrete terms and how does the driver benefit:
- On the straight improved driving comfort because here, the rotary actuators decouple the anti-roll bars on the front and rear axles thus opening the anti-roll bar so that it cannot react to one-sided stimulus from potholes or bumps in the road.
- Increased driving comfort and dynamics on winding stretches of road, as moments of torsion and the twisting angle are actively impacted by the anti-roll bars. In addition, the moment of torsion of the anti-roll bars remains constant even in the event of one-sided stimulus, for example when driving over a pothole on an outside curve. The differing regulation of the front and rear axles distributes the roll moment variably, enabling the self-steering behavior to be adjusted to the current driving situation. When out driving on country roads the handling of the vehicle is especially agile and on motorways, particularly stable.
- In extreme off-road situations at low speeds, the two anti-roll bars on the front and rear axles are decoupled. This opens the anti-roll bars and enables improved axle articulation.
To sum up: The third generation of the Mercedes-Benz M-Class unites the best of both worlds. On the one hand it carries strong off-road vehicle genes, and on the other, the propensity to make its passengers feel like they are sitting in the comfort of a premium limousine. The completely overhauled interior is just one of the features that contributes to the high-level of luxury for driver and passenger.
An extensive range of measures puts the M-Class at the top of its segment of the market for noise and driving comfort. To ensure that driving pleasure continues without impairment even after several 100,000 kilometers, the development engineers have not only put chassis and body to the test in the form of test runs all over the world but have also subjected the vehicle to a series of stringent tests in the laboratory. The car body testing facility or road simulation test bench are considered to be among the toughest of tests.
But why don’t you take a look yourself. I, for one, am already looking forward to the possibility of driving the M-Class.
The Best From Two Worlds: The New M-Class
I'm not sure how all the measurements are taken, but there is NO question the E-class has more rear leg room than the current ML. Yet the current ML shows to have more knee room than the E, with the new ML having even less. My conclusion is you can not trust these measurements. you have to sit in the car. If you notice the front seat measurements in the E vs. the new ML, you'll see that the E is substantially larger. And naturally this determines where the driver will position the seat and thus how much knee room one will have in the back. Duhhhhhh. Of course the ML seat position is higher and this means you need less knee room because the leg is more bent. The lower the seat position, the more knee room you need.
Rear seat room was a big disadvantage for shoppers comparing to the RX (a shorter vehicle), the X5, the Cayenne, and the Q7. Being a family vehicle, rear seat room is a high priority. We'll just have to see in person. But it makes no sense to make a vehicle longer and not improve something that was already a competitive disadvantage.
The GL has zero/zilch/nada more space in the front and rear seats. It is an exact copy of the ML in that area, other than the GL seat has an adjustment to make the seat back more upright to increase 3rd row knee room. The GL has a longer wheelbase, and is overall a much bigger vehicle. But the front and rear cabin are the same. Yes it is more expensive. But it doesn't gain in these areas. Although it is amazing how many people will look at both and perceive that the ML has a larger back seat.
Rear seat room was a big disadvantage for shoppers comparing to the RX (a shorter vehicle), the X5, the Cayenne, and the Q7. Being a family vehicle, rear seat room is a high priority. We'll just have to see in person. But it makes no sense to make a vehicle longer and not improve something that was already a competitive disadvantage.
Wolfgang
Kraftwagen König
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this 164 ML RX X5 Q7 comparo likes them.
PS. MBUSI changed the supplier on the 166, hopefully a further improvement.
Totally different issue Wolf.
The backseats in the ML are great. The seat cusion is deep, seat is well padded, and it is better than many makes. If you notice the new one has a shallower cushion. From 525 to 490. Not a good sign, IMO. I've sat in the back of the new Gr. Cherokee and was not impressed with the leg room. If that is any indication, who knows.
The problem is knee room. It doesn't matter how comfy the seat is, if the driver's seat is jammed up against the rear passenger. A problem you will not have in the Q7. However, the Q7 seat itself inferior.
The thing that bugs me is this is un-called for. MB should know where it falls amongst the competitors. Almost every vehicle goes up in wheelbase during a redesign. It obviously didn't do its homework on this, or they would have designed it so there wouldn't be any question. They even mention the importance of backseat comfort, yet the dimensions indicate a contradiction.
The backseats in the ML are great. The seat cusion is deep, seat is well padded, and it is better than many makes. If you notice the new one has a shallower cushion. From 525 to 490. Not a good sign, IMO. I've sat in the back of the new Gr. Cherokee and was not impressed with the leg room. If that is any indication, who knows.
The problem is knee room. It doesn't matter how comfy the seat is, if the driver's seat is jammed up against the rear passenger. A problem you will not have in the Q7. However, the Q7 seat itself inferior.
The thing that bugs me is this is un-called for. MB should know where it falls amongst the competitors. Almost every vehicle goes up in wheelbase during a redesign. It obviously didn't do its homework on this, or they would have designed it so there wouldn't be any question. They even mention the importance of backseat comfort, yet the dimensions indicate a contradiction.
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Thank you tennmb. I knew you would understand where I was comming from. The front cabin of the E is larger than the ML. The front seats in the ML will thus be pushed further back reducing the available room, even compared to its predecessor. The wheelbase has grown, so why hasn't interior room? Where has the space gone? You said it perfectly, the percieved lack of space compared to rivals, particularly the similarly sized lexus RX, was already a competitive disadvantage. This new one seems to have gotten a little worse. And again, why mention the importance of rear seat comfort when all key dimensions indicate they've gone backwards in terms of space. There has been a little stuff up somewhere along the line. Unless the GL will be offered with more rear space this time around and positioned to take on the Q7 and X5 at the upper end.
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The active curve system sound very interesting. I can't seem to get my head around the way it works, but I look forward to the reviews on it.
These little mechanical innovations on MB's suspension set ups seem to do the job.
These little mechanical innovations on MB's suspension set ups seem to do the job.
Wolfgang
Kraftwagen König
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As far as I can tell, and I haven't verified if true, that's a Bruno Sacco feature, going back to the first ML in 1998. Remember at the time he was concerned with urban space, and wanted to make the ML short to make efficient use of urban space, similar to the thinking behind the W168 A-Class, and smart fortwo. The first ML is thus only 180" and often easier to park e.g. in San Francisco where parking space is at a premium, than the successors, or e.g. an S-Class. Having driven various MLs since 1998, and being rather tall, knee room is no problem because we usually sit like this:
"W166 M-Class w/ efficient Sacco seating"
didn't it remain at 2915 mm?
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Sorry the length increased, the wheelbase remained the same.
Wolfgang
Kraftwagen König
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some active curve info.
View attachment 079daa7a73034e4570ee9baa5f38860c.jpg
In short:
ACTIVE CURVE reduces roll in curves and offroad, enhancing comfort and dynamics
mid speed (curvy country roads), highspeed (autobahn, highways) and offroad.
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No it isn't standard, but I agree it seems a good feature
Yes, and now MB should do what BMW does and ship every single test vehicle with the option!
Wolfgang,
I cannot thank you enough for sharing these dimensions. In fact I still have on file since 21 April 2005 the similar dimension for the W164 which you posted on this forum. The total height with the liftgate open is crucial for me because my ceiling height is 2150 mm. The total height of 2128 mm for the W164 liftgate leaves me a comfortable clearance of 22 mm. The electronic height limiter on the 2006 ML-500 keeps the liftgate well below my shoulders, hence useless. Despite the fact that the W166 is 19 mm lower standing height than the W166 its liftgate height stands at 2195 mm???. That is 45 mm above my ceiling and 67 mm higher that the W164. The only option which will make me re consider the W166 is having the “Programmable Liftgate Height” like the Porsche Cayenne S. My final decision for the model and brand will be in May 2012. That will give MB enough time to fine tune this model and remove all the gremlins.
I cannot thank you enough for sharing these dimensions. In fact I still have on file since 21 April 2005 the similar dimension for the W164 which you posted on this forum. The total height with the liftgate open is crucial for me because my ceiling height is 2150 mm. The total height of 2128 mm for the W164 liftgate leaves me a comfortable clearance of 22 mm. The electronic height limiter on the 2006 ML-500 keeps the liftgate well below my shoulders, hence useless. Despite the fact that the W166 is 19 mm lower standing height than the W166 its liftgate height stands at 2195 mm???. That is 45 mm above my ceiling and 67 mm higher that the W164. The only option which will make me re consider the W166 is having the “Programmable Liftgate Height” like the Porsche Cayenne S. My final decision for the model and brand will be in May 2012. That will give MB enough time to fine tune this model and remove all the gremlins.
comparo
Mercedes-Benz W166 M-Class (2012+)
Mercedes-Benz W164 M-Class (2006-2011)
Wolfgang,
Many thanks for the info. This is very reassuring. I am a MB fan since 1975 and have an excellent service and outstanding treatment at my MB dealer which is 15 minutes away. The new customization and options galore on the W166 put it closer to the excellent Cayenne S which offers the buyer to reconstruct the car inside out if ¢¢¢ is no object. By next Spring we will find out more about the reliability and drivability of the W166 on this board and through our friends. Also, I will not compromise for the V8, HID lights, Headlight Washers… and other features which are not available on W166 at launch. I will wait until the car is mature.
Many thanks for the info. This is very reassuring. I am a MB fan since 1975 and have an excellent service and outstanding treatment at my MB dealer which is 15 minutes away. The new customization and options galore on the W166 put it closer to the excellent Cayenne S which offers the buyer to reconstruct the car inside out if ¢¢¢ is no object. By next Spring we will find out more about the reliability and drivability of the W166 on this board and through our friends. Also, I will not compromise for the V8, HID lights, Headlight Washers… and other features which are not available on W166 at launch. I will wait until the car is mature.
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