Mercedes-Benz is in the process of officially unveiling its new M-class SUV to journalists in Germany right now, and we’ve gotten confirmation of several variants for the crossover. While the ML will launch with conventional gasoline and diesel powertrains—more on that in our full rundown here—we have learned that the company will again offer an AMG version, as well. We would guess on the engine being the same twin-turbo 5.5-liter V-8 that powers the latest generation of larger AMG products, like the CL63 and S63. The engine is good for well over 500 hp and 500 lb-ft in its various applications, and can be further strengthened by adding the company’s Performance pack option.
For the more fuel-conscious, the ML also will be sold in two hybrid variants: One will pack a gasoline-electric drive system similar to the one installed in today’s ML450 hybrid, and the other will feature a new diesel-electric system. It’s worth noting that as of today, only Peugeot sells a diesel-electric hybrid; while the engineering for such systems is complicated and costly, they have the potential to surpass the efficiency of modern gasoline-electric combos. The catch, of course, is that a decision hasn’t yet been made on whether the diesel-electric hybrid will be sold in the States. For pricing reasons—the thing will probably cost a fortune—we’re guessing not.
Finally, for shoppers demanding three rows of seats and a price tag better befitting country-club braggadocio, we’ve confirmed that the next-gen Mercedes-Benz GL should appear some time next year.
Tags: AMG, Mercedes-Benz, Mercedes-Benz GL-class, Mercedes-Benz M-class |
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