2012 Mercedes-Benz M-Class: official details, photos and specs012 Mercedes-Benz M-Class: official details, photos and specs

Mercedes-Benz revealed today the all-new 2012 M-Class, its latest crossover which will make its world debut in September, at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show. As you can see from the photos, the 2012 M-Class continues the same design philosophy seen on other models, such as the 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS, the 2012 SLK or the A-Class. The design shows off a new front grille, new headlights as well as a stylish set of tail lamps. In the United States, Mercedes-Benz will offer at the beginning only two models: the ML350 powered by a 3.5-liter V6 delivering 306 hp and 273 lb-ft of torque; the second model will be the ML350 Bluetec diesel, powered by a new 3.0-liter diesel V6 engine delivering 258 hp and 457 lb-ft. Both models will feature four-wheel drive.

Regarding the other powertrains, the German manufacturer will offer the ML250 Bluetec 4Matic, powered by a 2.1-liter four-cylinder turbodiesel engine delivering 204 hp and 369 lb-ft. This model is expected to be the most fuel-efficient as it will deliver a fuel consumption of 39 mpg on the highway. The ML350 BLuetec diesel will deliver 35 mpg on highway. Regarding the performances, the ML350 Bluetec diesel can sprint from 0 to 60 mph (96 km/h) in just 7.4 seconds and has a top speed of 139 mph or 223 km/h.

The ML350 powered by a V6 gasoline engine is a little bit slower, can sprint from 0 to 60 mph (96 km/h) in 7.6 seconds but has a higher top speed, electronically limited to 146 mph or 234 km/h. Other improvements for the 2012 Mercedes-Benz M-Class is the arrival of the new On&Offroad package, which provides six transmission modes in order to match the car’s driving conditions. Regarding the powerful ML500, this model will receive the all-new 4.6-liter V8 engine, replacing the current generation’s 5.5-liter V6. A hybrid version is also expected, powered by a V6 engine! No words about the price yet! [photos via insideline] [via - 4wheelsnews]

2012 Mercedes-Benz M-Class