Mercedes-Benz 2001 M-Class User manual

2011 M-Class

For more information, please visit MBUSA.com/M‑Class
Introducing the 2011 M-Class.
What drives us to continually reinvent, redefine and reimagine what a vehicle can do? When Mercedes-Benz
introduced the original M-Class more than a decade ago, it forever altered what people expect from SUVs.
But it didn’t change what they count on from the Three-Pointed Star. The first luxury SUV to feature 4-wheel
independent suspension, 4-wheel traction control and electronic stability control, after all, came from the
same engineering leadership that brought each of these innovations to passenger cars. No matter how times
change, the ingenuity to lead drivers into the future remains a way of life for the people who invented the first
automobile 125 years ago. And it’s why the M-Class continues to guide the way with advanced low-emission
power, top safety scores, the right balance of space and size, and innovations that give its driver and passengers
the Star treatment. Elevating your driving enjoyment, satisfaction and confidence will always be what drives us.
Five-star safety. Five-star comfort.
One Star leads the way.

ML 350 4matic shown on covers with Black paint, and optional brushed aluminum running boards, and Appearance, Lighting and Premium 1 Packages.
ML 350 shown above with Black paint, and optional brushed aluminum running boards and Premium 1 Package.

ML 350 BlueTEC shown with optional Alpine Rain metallic paint and KEYLESS-GO. Please see endnotes at back of brochure.

More than powerful. More like influential.
Performance that’s milestones ahead. From the gasoline-powered ML 350 V-6 and ML 550 V-8, to the clean diesel V-6 of the ML 350 BlueTEC, every M-Class offers
torque-rich performance over a wide range of speeds, with certified Ultra Low Emissions across the 50 states. A nimble independent suspension and available 4matic™
all-wheel drive1 seamlessly collaborate to handle a sudden turn in the weather as eagerly as an unexpected twist in the road. But the precise handling, refined ride
and rugged capability of an M-Class do more than inspire your sense of security and satisfaction. The countless innovations in performance and safety it’s pioneered
have influenced every SUV that’s followed in its tracks. An M- Class is driven not just by a powerful engine, but by the motivation to lead like a Mercedes-Benz.
Far-reaching. With an estimated 25 highway mpg,2 the
ML 350 BlueTEC can go up to 600 miles on a tank of fuel,
even B5 Biodiesel. BlueTEC technology starts by turning
its cleaner combustion into an earth-moving 400 lb-ft of
peak torque, and finishes by converting its nitrogen oxide
emissions into pure, earth-friendly nitrogen and oxygen.
Smooth-shifting. The M-Class delivers responsive power
via a 7-speed automatic transmission. Seven gear ranges
balance impressive acceleration and efficient cruising, while
smaller steps between gears keep it all smooth. Adaptive
logic paces shifting to match your current driving style, or
take charge with steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters.
Easy-going. When the going gets tough, the M-Class
takes it in stride. If you’re stopped on an incline, Hill Start
Assist helps prevent unwanted rollback when you start
to drive away. And 4matic models feature a one-button
Off-Road Driving mode, plus Downhill Speed Regulation to
help you crawl down steep hills at a sure, steady pace.

Five-star safety. The M-Class has once again earned the highest
safety ratings in its class — five stars in all frontal and side collision
tests — from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.3
PRE-SAFE. During certain vehicle maneuvers, the industry-exclusive
PRE-SAFE system can detect vehicle instability which suggests that
a collision or rollover is imminent. PRE-SAFE can then tighten the
front seat belts, and even close the windows and sunroof, all in an
effort to better prepare the occupants before an accident occurs.4
Standard 10-way air bag protection. Within the high-strength
steel-reinforced uni-body structure of the M-Class, eight air bags
offer a total of 10 ways of protection. In addition to dual-stage front
air bags, there are also four side-impact air bags, as well as side
curtain air bags for the outboard occupants in both seating rows.5
Advanced restraints. The M-Class provides a 3-point seat belt
and adjustable head restraint at each of its five seating positions.
Outboard front and rear seat belts are equipped with Emergency
Tensioning Devices (ETDs) and belt-force limiters. In a rear impact,
NECK-PRO active front head restraints help to prevent whiplash.
Post-collision response. If an air bag or seat-belt ETD deploys,
the standard Mercedes-Benz mbrace™ system can initiate a call
to our 24-hour emergency response center — even if you can’t.6
In addition, the POST-SAFE system automatically shuts off the
engine and fuel supply, turns on some cabin lights and the hazard
flashers, and unlocks the doors to assist rescuers.
Accident avoidance. Two systems first introduced by Mercedes-
Benz help you avoid potential collisions. ESP, our Electronic Stability
Program, monitors how the vehicle responds to your steering and
braking, and takes action to help keep it on course during evasive
maneuvers.
1 Brake Assist can apply full braking pressure if it detects
an emergency braking situation — based on how quickly you step on
the brake pedal — potentially shortening your stopping distance.7
More stable towing. The M-Class can tow up to 7,200 lbs when
equipped with the optional trailer hitch.8 Standard Trailer Stability
Assist integrates with the sensors for ESP to help detect the onset
of trailer sway. If it senses oscillation, it strategically applies the
front brakes of the M-Class to help bring it all under control.
Protective in nature, and by heredity.
Top-rated safety runs in the family. From patenting the crumple zone 60 years ago to introducing the Electronic Stability
Program (ESP®) to both cars and SUVs in the 1990s, Mercedes-Benz has fathered countless safety innovations that ultimately
find their way into virtually every automobile. Today’s M- Class looks to the future — and looks out for yours — with PRE-SAFE,
®
an exclusive breakthrough that can actually detect and prepare for a collision before it happens. So while its best-in-class
government safety ratings might put the M-Class at the top of your list, to Mercedes-Benz, it’s just being part of the family.

ML 550 shown with Arctic White paint, and optional KEYLESS-GO and Lighting Package. Please see endnotes at back of brochure.

A brilliant reflection of its core values.
Style and substance, both designed to stand the test of time. Well-defined muscle, polished presence and a confident stance: Everything that makes the M-Class
so alluring from the outside is why it’s so appealing through and through. Muscular bodywork reveals its strength, poise and agility. Distinctive 19" wheels express the
individuality of each model, with aggressive Sport body styling setting the ML 550 even further apart. Lustrous aluminum and stainless steel details underscore the
enduring solidity of every M-Class, while standard rain-sensing wipers are just one example of its forward-thinking innovation. Even its paint is innovative: Infused with
microscopic ceramic nano-particles, it helps the M-Class resist the ravages of time, and retain the radiant glow that so beautifully reflects the depth of its character.
Enlightened. The optional Lighting Package combines the
night-piercing brilliance of Bi-Xenon headlamps with corner-
brightening Active Curve Illumination, plus headlamp washers
and LED taillamps. Dramatic white LED Daytime Running
Lamps are included on the ML 350 and ML 350 BlueTEC,
while the ML 550 adds corner-illuminating front fog lamps.
Emboldened. Aggressive in style and performance, large
19" wheels are standard on the ML 350, ML 350 BlueTEC
and ML 550 — with a unique 5-spoke design for each model.
The ML 350 BlueTEC also includes runflat tires.9 An optional
Appearance Package for the gasoline-powered ML 350 adds
20" twin 5-spoke wheels and brushed aluminum roof rails.
Embellished. Front to back, top to bottom, finely crafted
metallic details offer lasting style and protection. Stainless-
steel skid plates guard the bumpers. Polished chrome and
aluminum accent the grille, side trim, cargo-loading sill and
exhaust tips. Rubber-studded brushed aluminum running
boards are standard on the ML 550, optional on the others.

ML 550 shown with optional Obsidian Black metallic paint and Premium 1 Package. Please see endnotes at back of brochure.

ML 350 BlueTEC shown with Cashmere interior and optional heated front seats, KEYLESS-GO,
wood/leather steering wheel and Premium 1 Package. Please see endnotes at back of brochure.

Blind Spot Assist. When traveling at speeds above 20 mph, this new M-Class option can alert the driver to some unseen vehicles
in the next lane.12 When sensors in the rear bumper detect a vehicle to either side, an indicator illuminates in the appropriate side
mirror. Should you activate your turn signal while the system is sensing an adjacent vehicle, an audible warning will sound.
Rear view camera and PARKTRONIC. Two available options can help you negotiate tight spaces. The rear view camera,
13 part
of the Premium 1 Package, shows a live image on the in-dash COMAND screen. The PARKTRONIC system helps you detect nearby
obstacles using ultrasonic sensors in the front and rear bumpers along with audio-visual indicators in the cabin.
Audio options. The Premium 1 Package expands your listening choices with SIRIUS® Satellite Radio,
14 HD Radio™ stations, iPod®
integration,
15 an in-dash memory card reader, and a 4GB Music Register for storing your MP3 files on the in-dash hard drive. The
Premium 2 Package adds a 610-watt harman/kardon LOGIC7® audio system with 11 speakers and Dolby® Digital 5.1 surround sound.
Sensitive to you, and your surroundings.
The simple pleasures of advanced technology. The M-Class is thoughtfully engineered to keep you in touch with the outside world
and your inner well-being. Controls and features are designed to operate with an elegantly intuitive logic. Its COMAND system unites a
6-DVD/CD audio/video system with a high-resolution 6.5" in-dash display, while its optional navigation10 responds to your natural voice,
monitors traffic, and offers Zagat® Survey ratings for restaurants, hotels and golf courses. A multifunction steering wheel lets you adjust
the audio, personalize vehicle settings and use the standard Bluetooth® interface11 with fingertip ease. And its optional rear view camera
and Blind Spot Assist help you sense what’s behind you or beside you. The M-Class is always on the lookout to brighten your outlook.

ML 350 shown with Cashmere interior. Please see endnotes at back of brochure.

Constant attention to your ever-changing needs.
Rigid standards, flexible choices. The versatile M-Class cabin is designed and crafted to accommodate your family, attend to your needs, and adapt to virtually any
whim. Front seats power-adjust eight ways, while 60/40-split folding rear seats offer lasting comfort for passengers or instant space for added cargo. The steering
column and driver-seat lumbar support each adjust four ways, to help you feel content and in control. Finely tailored upholstery, hand-polished Burl Walnut wood trim
and brushed metal accents create an air of refinement — while dual-zone automatic climate control refines the air with filtration of dust and pollen. And to help you
enjoy the changing seasons, M-Class luxuries range from a standard glass sunroof to available heating of the front seats, the rear seats, and even the steering wheel.
Supportive. The Premium 1 Package includes a 3-position
memory for the power driver seat — including the settings
for the power steering column and side mirrors. Heated
front seats are standard on the ML 550 and optional on the
other models. Heated rear seats are available on all models.
Sun-loving. The power tilt/sliding sunroof, windshield
and front doors all feature heat-absorbing tinted glass,
to help keep the cabin cooler in summer. If you park your
M-Class on a hot day, you can open the windows and
sunroof via the SmartKey remote before you get back in.
Spontaneous. The flexible cabin accommodates up to five
adults, 72.4 cu ft of cargo, or — thanks to its 60/40-split
rear seats — any combination in between.
16 A power liftgate,
included in the Premium 1 Package, fully opens or closes
at the touch of a button for easier loading and unloading.

The ML 63 AMG.
Thoroughly thoroughbred.
One man, one engine. Beyond all the racing trophies earned in the storied legacy
of AMG — the high-performance arm of Mercedes-Benz — one small plaque tells an
even greater story. Affixed atop each AMG engine, it bears the signature of the
single master technician who assembled it from race-proven components with his
own hands. The superlatively engineered vehicle which houses this engine will go
forth to achieve imposing results in virtually every dimension of performance. But
no matter what numbers it generates — horsepower and pound-feet, mph and rpm,
or seconds and g’s — every measure of an ML 63 AMG starts with “one.”
AMG-developed 6.3-liter V-8. A new dual-power-dome hood conceals the handcrafted
V-8 heart of the ML 63 AMG. With 503 hp @ 6,800 rpm, 465 lb-ft of torque @ 5,200 rpm,
and the throaty growl of an AMG sport exhaust system, 60 mph arrives in 4.8 seconds.17
SPEEDSHIFT PLUS. The paddle-shifted 7-speed automatic transmission offers the
three driving modes of SPEEDSHIFT PLUS. Each setting alters the shifting and throttle
response at the driver’s command. Sport mode delivers 30% faster shift speeds than
the standard Comfort mode, while a true Manual mode quickens shifts by up to 50%.
AMG-enhanced chassis. The self-lowering AMG-recalibrated AIRMATIC air suspension
responds instantly to handle with poise and precision. A Sport mode is driver-selectable.
Massive perforated brake discs measure 15.4" in front and 14.4" at the rear. Lightweight,
highly rigid 20" AMG 5-spoke wheels are standard, while 21" AMG wheels are optional.
Racy refinement. With nearly every M-Class luxury fitted as standard equipment, the
ML 63 AMG delivers a uniquely rewarding mix of capability and performance. Exclusive
upgrades include multicontour, heated and Active Ventilated front seats upholstered in
rich AMG Premium leather, along with AMG instrumentation featuring a RACETIMER.
Learn more at MBUSA.com/AMG

ML 63 AMG shown with Palladium Silver metallic paint. Please see endnotes at back of brochure.

Connecting your life.
Stay in touch with mbrace. Your vehicle is more than a source of enjoyment, it’s a vital part of everyday living.
The Mercedes-Benz mbrace™ system can make it easier — from planning a trip, to remembering where you parked,
to handling an unexpected emergency.6 You can access a world of security, convenience and destination planning
services from your vehicle, your computer or even your smartphone. With advanced, reliable technology, plus
24-hour support from helpful experts, mbrace helps keep you, your life and your Mercedes-Benz connected.
From your smartphone. The mbrace Mobile Application
for your iPhone® or BlackBerry® lets you locate your vehicle
from up to a mile away, remote-unlock its doors, find a
nearby dealer, and contact Roadside Assistance, Customer
Service or even Mercedes-Benz Financial with a touch.
19
From your computer. Beyond the support you’ll find
at mbrace.MBUSA.com, the Search & Send feature lets
you look up destinations on Google™ Maps using any web
browser. You can then send the address directly to your
vehicle’s navigation system with just a few clicks.
From your vehicle. Three buttons inside your Mercedes-
Benz can connect you to emergency services, our 24-hour
Customer Assistance Center, or our Roadside Assistance
service.
18 Numerous mbrace services are also integrated
with your vehicle’s optional COMAND navigation system.
Please see endnotes at back of brochure.

Mercedes-Benz mbrace™ packages.
Support — when and where you need it. Two service packages are available, each including an attractive complimentary trial period allowing you to experience
the many ways that Mercedes-Benz mbrace can help connect and protect you and your vehicle. The standard mbrace Package (::) includes all of the Safety and
Security services, as well as Search & Send,™ one of the most popular Navigation and Destination Planning features. It also includes four reassuring Convenience
features, such as the ability to locate your vehicle using your smartphone. The mbrace PLUS Package (+) offers unlimited use of our expert Concierge services,
spoken turn-by-turn Route Assistance — even if your car does not have a navigation system — plus traffic and weather reports based on your location.
Safety and Security
Automatic Collision Notification :: +
With mbrace, your vehicle can call for help even if you
can’t. If an air bag or Emergency Tensioning Device is
activated, mbrace initiates a call to the Mercedes-Benz
Emergency Response Center to notify them of the
incident, and provide information on your vehicle and
its location. A Customer Specialist will then attempt to
make voice contact with you. If you request help, or do
not respond, they will notify local emergency response
services, and stay on the line until help arrives.
SOS/Emergency Call :: +
Roadside Assistance Connection :: +
Stolen Vehicle Location Assistance :: +
Automatic Alarm Notification :: +
Crisis Assist :: +
Safe Ride :: +
Navigation and Destination Planning
Search & Send :: +
A convenient way to plan your trips before you leave
your home or office, Search & Send lets you use
Google Maps to find a destination online, then send it
directly to your Mercedes-Benz. Once you’re in your
vehicle, just push the i-Button and the address will be
downloaded into your vehicle’s navigation system. You
can then start route guidance immediately, or save the
information in your navigation system’s memory.
Point of Interest +
Destination Download
Route Assistance +
Location-Based Traffic +
Location-Based Weather +
Convenience
Mercedes-Benz Concierge +
Subscribing to mbrace PLUS gives you unlimited
access to Mercedes-Benz Concierge services,
a network of experienced, professional personal
assistants who can fulfill virtually any request,
around the clock, right in your vehicle.
Remote Door Unlock :: +
Vehicle Finder (via Mobile Application only) :: +
Dealer Connect :: +
Vehicle Information :: +
Mercedes-Benz mbrace is the evolution of our existing groundbreaking in-vehicle services, offering national support along with expanded and enhanced features.
To learn more about mbrace, see your dealer, call 866-990-9007 or visit MBUSA.com/mbrace.
:: mbrace Package features
+ mbrace PLUS Package features

ML 350 shown with optional Iridium Silver metallic paint, KEYLESS-GO, PARKTRONIC, and Lighting Package. Please see endnotes at back of brochure.

A personal expression, and a lasting impression.
No automaker has more experience in creating a great experience. With a history of firsts that started with the invention of the car in 1886, every Mercedes-Benz
embodies a unique biography of automotive achievement. And yet the most compelling memoir will be the one you create for yourself. An extensive array of thoughtfully
innovative options and accessories helps you tailor the style, capabilities and comforts of your M-Class to fit the life you live — from brushed aluminum running boards
to a selection of 20" alloy wheels, and from a Class III trailer hitch8 to a heated steering wheel. For added convenience, several M-Class option packages combine the
most sought-after features at significant savings over their individual value. Wherever you go with your new M-Class, this is the start of a memorable journey.
Accessories. Fine-tune your car’s aerodynamics, attitude
and appearance with Genuine Mercedes-Benz Accessories
that are exclusively engineered for your M-Class. From
wheels to cargo carriers to chrome trim and all-season floor
mats, they fit your lifestyle as well as they fit your vehicle.
Visit MBUSA.com/M-Class
Individual options. A flexible menu lets you match your
M-Class to your wishes. Among your choices, the Rear Seat
Entertainment system includes dual 8" LCD flat screens, as
well as dual DVD sources plus inputs for external devices,
two remote controls and two sets of wireless headphones.
Turn the page for more options.
Option packages. M-Class packages combine popular
features with exceptional value. The Premium 1 Package,
for example, includes navigation, a rear view camera, power
liftgate, power-folding mirrors, driver-seat memory, a 115V
household-type power outlet in the cargo area, and more.
Turn the page for more packages.

Build your own M-Class at MBUSA.com/M-Class
ML 350 ML 350
BlueTEC ML 550
OPTION PACKAGES
Premium 1 Package:
• Hard-drive navigation,10 4GB Music Register for storing MP3 files
• SIRIUS® Satellite Radio14 with SIRIUS Traffic,™ iPod®/MP3 media interface,15
HD Radio™ receiver, and Gracenote® media database
• Enhanced Voice Control for audio, telephone and navigation
• 10-way power driver seat with 3-position memory
• Power tilt/telescoping steering column, included in driver-seat memory
• Auto-dimming driver-side and inside rear view mirrors, with digital compass
display in inside mirror
• Power-folding side mirrors
• Power liftgate
• 115-volt AC power outlet in cargo area
• Rear view camera13

Premium 2 Package (includes all items in Premium 1 Package, plus):
• harman/kardon LOGIC7® surround- sound system with Dolby Digital 5.1
• KEYLESS- GO

Full Leather Seating Package:
• Leather upholstery on all seats
• Premium interior lighting

Lighting Package:
• Bi-Xenon headlamps with Active Curve Illumination and headlamp washers
• LED Daytime Running Lamps (ML 350 and ML 350 BlueTEC only)
• Corner-illuminating front fog lamps (ML 550 only)
• LED taillamps

Appearance Package:
• 20" twin 5-spoke wheels
• Brushed aluminum roof rails (standard on ML 550)
— —
INDIVIDUAL OPTIONS
Metallic paint
20" AMG 5-spoke wheels
Brushed aluminum running boards with rubber studs

—


—




4matic™ all-wheel drive  
Blind Spot Assist12
PARKTRONIC system
KEYLESS-GO









Class III trailer hitch (up to 7,200-lb towing capacity)8
Heated front seats
Heated rear seats
Heated steering wheel (not available with wood/leather steering wheel)
Wood/leather steering wheel (not available with heated steering wheel)












Rear Seat Entertainment system, or system pre -wiring 
ML 350 ML 350 BlueTEC ML 550
SPECIFICATIONS
Engine 3.5-liter gasoline V-6,
268 hp @ 6,000 rpm,
258 lb -ft net torque
@ 2,400–5,000 rpm
3.0-liter turbodiesel V-6,
210 hp @ 3,400 rpm,
400 lb-ft net torque
@ 1,600–2,400 rpm
5.5-liter gasoline V-8,
382 hp @ 6,000 rpm,
391 lb-ft net torque
@ 2,800–4,800 rpm
Transmission 7-speed automatic with steering wheel -mounted paddle shifters
Wheels 19" 5-spoke 19" 5-spoke with
runflat tires9
19" AMG 5- spoke
Suspension 4 -wheel independent 4-wheel independent 4-wheel independent
Drivetrain Rear- wheel drive or
4matic all-wheel drive
4matic all-wheel drive 4matic all -wheel drive
 Standard  Optional — Not Available
ENDNOTES
1 No system, regardless of how advanced, can overcome the laws of physics or correct careless driving. Please always wear
your seat belt. Performance is limited by available traction, which snow, ice and other conditions can affect. Always drive
carefully, consistent with conditions. Best performance in snow is obtained with winter tires. 4matic is optional on ML 350,
standard on other models.
2 2011 EPA estimated fuel economy. Compare the estimated mpg to the estimated mpg of other vehicles. You may get
different mileage depending on how fast you drive, weather conditions and trip length. Your actual highway mileage will
probably be less than the highway estimate. Driving range claim based on fuel tank capacity and highway estimate.
3 2010 model tested. Star ratings are part of the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Safercar.gov program (www.safercar.gov).
Comparative claims based on 2010 competitor information. 2011 information not available at time of printing.
4 PRE-SAFE® closes the side windows and sunroof when the system’s sensors detect side movement that suggests a
possible rollover.
ML 350 ML 350 BlueTEC ML 550
DIMENSIONS
Wheelbase
Overall length
Overall height
Overall width
114.7 in
188.2 in
71.5 in
83.7 in (with mirrors)
114.7 in
188.2 in
71.5 in
83.7 in (with mirrors)
114.7 in
188.2 in
71.5 in
83.7 in (with mirrors)
Curb weight 4,630 lbs (2WD)
4,729 lbs (4matic )
4,927 lbs 4,883 lbs
Headroom, front/rear
Legroom, front/rear
Shoulder room, front/rear
39.9 in/39.8 in
42.2 in/40.0 in
58.4 in/58.3 in
39.9 in/39.8 in
42.2 in/40.0 in
58.4 in/58.3 in
39.9 in/39.8 in
42.2 in/40.0 in
58.4 in/58.3 in
Cargo capacity 29.4 cu ft (behind rear seats, to top of seats)
72.4 cu ft (rear seats folded, floor-to-ceiling)