Mercedes-Benz is using next week's New York auto show to unveil a facelifted version of the second-generation M-Class SUV.
The M-Class has racked up 300,000 sales worldwide since 2005. However, strong competition in the luxury-SUV segment has led the German carmaker to tweak the appearance of the M-Class in a bid to boost its appeal until the planned arrival of the third-generation model in 2012.
Among the changes are a lightly altered front end with a redesigned bumper, larger headlights, more prominent three-slat grille and new fog lamps.
There are subtle changes toward the rear with new exterior-mirror housings, standard roof rails, new taillamp lens design and a deeper bumper with an optional stainless-steel protection plate.
Inside, new leatherlike door trim and a four-spoke steering wheel with shift paddles appear on all models, as do Mercedes-Benz's Pre-Safe occupant-protection system and NeckPro anti-whiplash headrests.
Among the optional equipment is a new entertainment and navigation system incorporating Mercedes-Benz's latest-generation telematics that include Bluetooth and iPod connectivity.
Gasoline engine choices for the standard M-Class remain the same: a 3.5-liter, 272-hp V6 and a 5.5-liter, 388-hp V8. Also, a 3.0-liter diesel V6, rated at 211 hp, is added to the lineup.
They are joined by the powerplant in the facelifted version of the storming ML63 AMG, powered by a 6.2-liter, 510-hp V8. The AMG version also gets a bold new body kit, standard 20-inch wheels, and revised interior with a flat-bottom multifunction steering wheel and upgraded sport seats.
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