Mercedes shows off new ML SUV for 2006

Mercedes-Benzhas revealed the first official photo of the new ML-class SUV that should be onsale in Canadaby the spring of 2005 as a 2006 model.

The ML350 and ML500will debut at the Detroit auto show in Januaryand should appear shortly thereafter at auto shows in Montrealand Toronto.

According to theGerman firm, the new and larger M-class is ''characterized by sweeping frontfenders, dramatic shoulder lines, and a sharply angled windshield'' and has ''steppedup another gear.'' It's a lot smoother than the boxy model it will replace,which is evidenced by a drag-coefficient of 0.34 for the new model instead of0.37 for the current model.

It comes with abunch of new equipment, including three new and more powerful six-cylinderengines and a more powerful version of the current V-8, though we'll only gettwo of them to start, and a seven-speed automatic transmission as standardequipment.

The ML was ahuge hit right out of the gate seven years ago, winning the coveted NorthAmerica Truck of the Year Award and going on to strong sales. But since thenthe market's been flooded by better looking competition with higher quality andmuch superior interiors in its price range, and below.

So Mercedes is hopingthat the new model can regain some of the buzz of the original model, which,like the new one, is built in a plant in Alabama.

To that end, thenew ML is 150 mm longer, 71 mm wider, 9 mm lower and sits on a wheelbase that's95 mm longer than its predecessor, which should have an impact on its interiorroom and provide it with a more hunkered-down, less truck-like attitude.

According to theoffice in Stuttgart,''you need look no further than the design of the new M-Class, with itsbeguiling blend of heavily contoured surfaces and taut lines to admire themajestic character of the second-generation SUV. The swept-back windscreen,striking front wings and rising shoulder line set the unashamedly sportingtone, a theme developed by the proportions of the body.''

The new M-Classis 150 mm longer, 71 mm wider and 9 mm lower on the road than its predecessorand its wheelbase has grown by 95 mm to 2915 mm.

This model usesand all-new unibody platform as well as a redesigned suspension that is said to''deliver more on-road driving performance and comfort.''

According toMercedes-Benz North America, ''new and useful technology abounds in the 2006 ML,including a standard seven-speed automatic transmission, an even more effectivefull-time four-wheel-drive system, and such optional features as height-adjustableAIRMATIC air suspension.''

The revisedfour-wheel traction control now incorporates such functions as a downhill drivingaid and Hill-Start Assist.

The ML350 usesan all-new 3.5-liter V-6 that delivers 268 hp, and the ML500 comes with a302-hp 5.0-liter V-8. As yet, there are no plans to import either of the dieselengines, though that could certainly change.