Got a middling size family and need a luxury ride with some trailblazing capability? Take a look at the 2015 Mercedes-Benz M-Class midsize 5-passenger crossover. This high-end mini- ute flaunts the cachet and the comfort that the German automaker has made famous, as well as a plethora of engine choices, 80.3 cubic feet of toting space (with the rear seatbacks folded) and all the bells and whistles that the well-heeled commuter, mall-hopper or back-woods-vacationer could need.
Featuring a revamped trim lineup for 2015, the M-Class returns the base ML350 while replacing the old ML350 BlueTEC with a new ML250 BlueTEC and the now-historic ML550 with the new ML400. The flagship ML63 AMG, offspring of M-B’s racing division, again sits at the top of the M-Class lineup for the upcoming model year. Meanwhile, all iterations except the ML350 come with standard all-wheel drive (AWD), known as 4Matic in Mercedes-land, with even the entry-level ML350 getting the 4Matic configuration as an option.
Along with the reconfigured trim designations come a couple of new engines. The ML250 BlueTEC replaces the old 3.0-liter turbodiesel V6 with a peppier 2.1-liter turbodiesel inline 4-cylinder (I4) powerplant that now puts out over 300 hp, compared to the past version's 240 hp. Meantime, the new-for-2015 ML400 totes a 329-hp twin-turbocharged V6 engine that’s alleged to be more fuel-efficient via improved variable valve timing (VVT) and auto stop/start technology, while still allowing some 7,200 pounds of trailer-towing grunt when properly equipped.
Of course, the ML350 in both the standard rear-wheel drive (RWD) and available AWD configurations sports the direct-injected (DI) 3.5-liter normally aspirated V6 that’s been tweaked for a bit more fuel efficiency and can tow up to 6,600 pounds of trailer.
Meanwhile, the ML63 AMG returns boasting its over-the-top 5.5-liter twin-turbocharged gasoline-burning V8 that pounds down 518 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque. Mileage estimates again run 13 mpg city/17 highway, and this sport-oriented beast again features 7,200 pounds of towing ability with the proper equipment.
All engines, by the way, remain mated with a standard 7-speed shiftable automatic transmission, complete with steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters.
No official word on added exterior bling or upgrades to this crafty and capable crossover’s various conveniences and comfort adornments for the upcoming year leaves one to guess that the traditional alloy wheels, power sunroof and power liftgate all return for 2015, as do the leatherette upholstery in lower trims and genuine leather seating in higher M-Class variants. Cruise control and telescoping tilt-wheel steering will remain standard across the lineup, as do dual-zone climate control (tri-zone for higher trims), a remote garage door opener and Bluetooth hands-free technology.
M-B’s touted COMAND infotainment system with its 7-inch display, meantime, interfaces with basic mbrace directions and roadside assistance features, while each of these techno-goodies returns integrated with the standard 100-watt audio system in the base ML350. Said system is expected to again sport 8 speakers, a 6-CD changer and an SD card slot, not to mention auxiliary audio input.
Moving to the higher trims, look for extras like memory settings for up to 3 drivers, GPS navigation and, in the ML63 AMG, a sport-tuned suspension, sport front seats and a performance steering wheel.
Options-wise, the less expensive 2015 M-Class variations will remain eligible for many of the goodies that come standard on higher-priced trims as optional equipment. Stuff like a trailer hitch and wiring, smartphone-interfaced MB Apps, rear-seat DVD entertainment and nearly limitless upgrades to wheels, exterior trim and interior accent materials remain available to select trims.
Finally, standard safety equipment in the various M-Class versions for 2015 will again be headlined by 4-wheel antilock brakes (ABS), 11 strategically located airbags, traction and stability control, and front head-restraint whiplash protection. Additionally, standard daytime running lights, turn-signal-integrated mirrors, front fog/driving lights, pre- and post-collision safety systems, mbrace emergency assistance and notifications, and a remote antitheft alarm also return.The ML63 AMG boasts standard lane-keeping assist and Parking Assist with a 360-degree around-view camera, both of which are optional in lower trims, while blind-spot monitoring and forward-collision mitigation technology remain optional throughout the reworked lineup.
Why does my 2015 ML350 allow the rear passenger doors to be opened when the car is locked? The alarm will sound but the doors are still allowed to be opened but the front doors stay locked. Same is true if the locks automatically lock while driving but if I pull to a stop and someone were to try to open a rear door, they would be able to open it but not the front doors. How do I fix this?
Last week the car started emitting a horrible vinegar smell from the ac when first turned on. Took it to the dealership ( still under warranty ) and they want $330 to flush and clean the mold out of the ac unit and replace the filters. Claimed it not covered. Said that we need to turn ac off 5 minutes prior to reaching destination to let moisture out so it doesn't stay in unit and become moldy ! What !? I don't think I should have to babysit an ac unit in a $65K car ! All I can think about is Legionnaires Disease....caused by mold in a ventilation system. Mercedes told us some BS that this is common in all luxury cars. We've owned new BMW, Audi, and Lexus' that have never had this issue. They acted very casual about it, but yet its not covered, AND we'll probably have to have this done every year.
Air Conditioning
Active charcoal air filtration · Automatic climate control front air conditioning · Dual front air conditioning zones
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Driver knee airbags · Passenger airbag deactivation: occupant sensing deactivation · Front side airbags · Front side curtain airbags
Audio System
Antenna Type: diversity · Auxiliary audio input: iPod/iPhone integration · Single disc in-Dash CD · MP3 player: CD MP3 Playback · AM/FM radio · Rear audio: separate rear audio · Satellite Radio: SiriusXM · Total Number of Speakers: 8
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel · Front brake diameter: 12.9 · Front brakes: ventilated disc · Rear brake diameter: 12.8 · Rear brakes: ventilated disc
Comfort Features
Armrests: rear center folding with storage · Center console trim: wood · Floor Mat Material: carpet · Floor Material: carpet · Floor Mats: front · Shift knob trim: alloy · Steering wheel trim: leather
Convenience Features
Cargo area power outlet: 12V · Cargo cover: retractable · Center console: front console with armrest · Cupholders: front · Multi-function remote: keyless entry · One-touch windows: 4 · Power outlet(s): 12V front · Power windows: lockout button · Reading lights: rear · Steering wheel: tilt and telescopic · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio · Storage: cargo tie-down anchors and hooks · Vanity mirrors: dual illuminating
Driver Seat
Adjustable lumbar support: 4-way power · Power adjustments: 8
Exterior Features
Door handle color: body-color · Exhaust: dual exhaust tips · Exhaust tip color: chrome · Front bumper color: body-color · Mirror color: body-color · Rear bumper color: body-color · Rear spoiler: lip · Rear spoiler color: body-color · Rear trunk/liftgate: power operated · Skid plate(s): front and rear · Window trim: chrome
Headrests
Front headrests: adjustable · Number of front headrests: 2 · Number of rear headrests: 3
In Car Entertainment
Connected in-car apps: Google POIs · Infotainment screen size: 7 in.
Instrumentation
Fuel economy display: MPG · Warnings and reminders: low fuel level
Lights
Exterior entry lights: security approach lamps · Headlights: Halogen · Tail and brake lights: LED
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: power
Passenger Seat
Power adjustments: 8
Rear Seats
Type: 60-40 split bench
Roof
Moonroof: one-touch open/close · Roof rails: aluminum
Safety
Active head restraints: driver · Child seat anchors: LATCH system · Crumple zones: front · Impact sensor: post-collision safety system
Seatbelts
Emergency locking retractors: front · Front seatbelts: 3-point · Seatbelt force limiters: front and rear · Seatbelt pretensioners: front · Seatbelt warning sensor: driver and passenger · Second row seatbelts: 3-point
Seats
Driver seat power adjustments: height · Front seat type: bucket · Passenger seat power adjustments: height · Rear headrests: adjustable · Rear seat folding: split · Upholstery: leatherette
Spare Tire
Mount Location: inside · Size: temporary
Spare Wheel
Rim Type: steel
Suspension
Front Shock Type: gas shock absorbers · Front Spring Type: coil springs · Front Suspension Classification: independent · Front Suspension Type: double wishbones · Rear Shock Type: gas shock absorbers · Rear Spring Type: coil springs · Rear Suspension Classification: independent · Rear Suspension Type: multi-link · Stabilizer bar(s): rear
Telematics
Driver assistance app: roadside assistance · Phone: hands free · Phone wireless data link: Bluetooth · Satellite communications: mbrace · Smart device app function: vehicle location
Tires
Type: all season
Tires and Rims
Wheel type: aluminum alloy
Windows
Front wipers: variable intermittent · Liftgate window: fixed · Power windows: remote operation · Rear wiper: intermittent
Air Conditioning
Active charcoal air filtration · Automatic climate control front air conditioning · Dual front air conditioning zones
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Driver knee airbags · Passenger airbag deactivation: occupant sensing deactivation · Front side airbags · Front side curtain airbags
Audio System
Antenna Type: diversity · Bluetooth auxiliary audio input · Single disc in-Dash CD · MP3 player: CD MP3 Playback · AM/FM radio · Rear audio: separate rear audio · Satellite Radio: SiriusXM · Total Number of Speakers: 8
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel · Front brake diameter: 12.9 · Front brakes: ventilated disc · Rear brake diameter: 12.8 · Rear brakes: ventilated disc
Comfort Features
Armrests: rear center folding with storage · Center console trim: wood · Floor Mat Material: carpet · Floor Material: carpet · Floor Mats: front · Shift knob trim: alloy · Steering wheel trim: leather
Convenience Features
Cargo area power outlet: 12V · Cargo cover: retractable · Center console: front console with armrest · Cupholders: rear · Multi-function remote: keyless entry · One-touch windows: 4 · Power outlet(s): 12V front · Power windows: lockout button · Reading lights: front · Steering wheel: tilt and telescopic · Steering wheel mounted controls: paddle shifter · Storage: cargo tie-down anchors and hooks · Vanity mirrors: dual illuminating
Driver Seat
Adjustable lumbar support: 4-way power · Power adjustments: 8
Drivetrain
4WD Type: full time
Exterior Features
Door handle color: body-color · Exhaust: dual exhaust tips · Exhaust tip color: chrome · Front bumper color: body-color · Mirror color: body-color · Rear bumper color: body-color · Rear spoiler: lip · Rear spoiler color: body-color · Rear trunk/liftgate: power operated · Skid plate(s): front and rear · Window trim: chrome
Headrests
Front headrests: adjustable · Number of front headrests: 2 · Number of rear headrests: 3
In Car Entertainment
Connected in-car apps: Google search · Infotainment screen size: 7 in.
Instrumentation
Fuel economy display: MPG · Warnings and reminders: low fuel level
Lights
Exterior entry lights: security approach lamps · Headlights: Auto on/off · Tail and brake lights: LED
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: integrated turn signals
Passenger Seat
Power adjustments: 8
Rear Seats
Type: 60-40 split bench
Roof
Moonroof: one-touch open/close · Roof rails: aluminum
Safety
Active head restraints: driver · Child seat anchors: LATCH system · Crumple zones: front · Impact sensor: post-collision safety system
Seatbelts
Emergency locking retractors: front · Front seatbelts: 3-point · Seatbelt force limiters: front · Seatbelt pretensioners: front and rear · Seatbelt warning sensor: driver and passenger · Second row seatbelts: 3-point
Seats
Driver seat power adjustments: height · Front seat type: bucket · Passenger seat power adjustments: height · Rear headrests: adjustable · Rear seat folding: split · Upholstery: leatherette
Spare Tire
Mount Location: inside · Size: temporary
Spare Wheel
Rim Type: steel
Suspension
Front Shock Type: gas shock absorbers · Front Spring Type: coil springs · Front Suspension Classification: independent · Front Suspension Type: double wishbones · Rear Shock Type: gas shock absorbers · Rear Spring Type: coil springs · Rear Suspension Classification: independent · Rear Suspension Type: multi-link · Stabilizer bar(s): front
Telematics
Driver assistance app: roadside assistance · Phone: hands free · Phone wireless data link: Bluetooth · Satellite communications: mbrace · Smart device app function: horn/light operation
Tires
Type: all season
Tires and Rims
Wheel type: aluminum alloy
Windows
Front wipers: rain sensing · Liftgate window: fixed · Power windows: remote operation · Rear wiper: intermittent
Air Conditioning
Active charcoal air filtration · Automatic climate control front air conditioning · Dual front air conditioning zones
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Driver knee airbags · Passenger airbag deactivation: occupant sensing deactivation · Front side airbags · Rear side curtain airbags
Audio System
Antenna Type: diversity · Auxiliary audio input: iPod/iPhone integration · Single disc in-Dash CD · MP3 player: CD MP3 Playback · AM/FM radio · Rear audio: separate rear audio · Satellite Radio: SiriusXM · Total Number of Speakers: 8
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel · Front brake diameter: 12.9 · Front brakes: ventilated disc · Rear brake diameter: 12.8 · Rear brakes: ventilated disc
Comfort Features
Armrests: rear center folding with storage · Center console trim: alloy · Floor Mat Material: carpet · Floor Material: carpet · Floor Mats: front · Shift knob trim: alloy · Steering wheel trim: leather
Convenience Features
Cargo area power outlet: 12V · Cargo cover: retractable · Center console: front console with armrest · Cupholders: rear · Multi-function remote: keyless entry · One-touch windows: 4 · Power outlet(s): 12V front · Power windows: lockout button · Reading lights: rear · Steering wheel: tilt and telescopic · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio · Storage: cargo tie-down anchors and hooks · Vanity mirrors: dual illuminating
Driver Seat
Adjustable lumbar support: 4-way power · Power adjustments: 8
Drivetrain
4WD Type: full time
Exterior Features
Door handle color: body-color · Exhaust: dual exhaust tips · Exhaust tip color: chrome · Front bumper color: body-color · Mirror color: body-color · Rear bumper color: body-color · Rear spoiler: lip · Rear spoiler color: body-color · Rear trunk/liftgate: liftgate · Skid plate(s): front and rear · Window trim: chrome
Headrests
Front headrests: adjustable · Number of front headrests: 2 · Number of rear headrests: 3
In Car Entertainment
Connected in-car apps: Facebook · Infotainment screen size: 7 in.
Instrumentation
Fuel economy display: MPG · Warnings and reminders: lamp failure
Lights
Exterior entry lights: security approach lamps · Headlights: Halogen · Tail and brake lights: LED
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: integrated turn signals
Passenger Seat
Power adjustments: 8
Rear Seats
Type: 60-40 split bench
Roof
Moonroof: remote operation · Roof rails: aluminum
Safety
Active head restraints: driver · Child seat anchors: LATCH system · Crumple zones: front · Impact sensor: post-collision safety system
Seatbelts
Emergency locking retractors: front · Front seatbelts: 3-point · Seatbelt force limiters: front and rear · Seatbelt pretensioners: front and rear · Seatbelt warning sensor: driver and passenger · Second row seatbelts: 3-point
Seats
Driver seat power adjustments: height · Front seat type: bucket · Passenger seat power adjustments: height · Rear headrests: adjustable · Rear seat folding: split · Upholstery: leatherette
Spare Tire
Mount Location: inside · Size: temporary
Spare Wheel
Rim Type: steel
Suspension
Front Shock Type: gas shock absorbers · Front Spring Type: coil springs · Front Suspension Classification: independent · Front Suspension Type: double wishbones · Rear Shock Type: gas shock absorbers · Rear Spring Type: coil springs · Rear Suspension Classification: independent · Rear Suspension Type: multi-link · Stabilizer bar(s): front
Telematics
Driver assistance app: roadside assistance · Phone: hands free · Phone wireless data link: Bluetooth · Satellite communications: mbrace · Smart device app function: vehicle location
Tires
Type: all season
Tires and Rims
Wheel type: aluminum alloy
Windows
Front wipers: variable intermittent · Liftgate window: fixed · Power windows: remote operation · Rear wiper: intermittent
Air Conditioning
Active charcoal air filtration · Automatic climate control front air conditioning · Dual front air conditioning zones
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Driver knee airbags · Passenger airbag deactivation: occupant sensing deactivation · Front side airbags · Rear side curtain airbags
Audio System
Antenna Type: diversity · USB auxiliary audio input · Single disc in-Dash CD · MP3 player: CD MP3 Playback · Premium Brand: Harman-Kardon · HD radio · Rear audio: separate rear audio · Satellite Radio: SiriusXM · 1 subwoofer · Surround audio: 5.1 · Total Number of Speakers: 14
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel · Front brake diameter: 13.8 · Front brakes: ventilated disc · Rear brake diameter: 12.9 · Rear brakes: ventilated disc
Comfort Features
Armrests: rear center folding with storage · Center console trim: wood · Floor Mat Material: carpet · Floor Material: carpet · Floor Mats: front · Shift knob trim: leather · Steering wheel trim: leather
Convenience Features
Cargo area power outlet: 12V · Cargo cover: retractable · Center console: front console with armrest · Cupholders: rear · Dimming rearview mirror: auto-dimming · Multi-function remote: proximity entry system · One-touch windows: 4 · Power outlet(s): 12V front · Power windows: lockout button · Reading lights: rear · Steering wheel: tilt and telescopic · Steering wheel mounted controls: paddle shifter · Storage: front seatback · Vanity mirrors: dual illuminating
Driver Seat
Adjustable lumbar support: 4-way power · Power adjustments: 14
Drivetrain
4WD Type: full time
Exterior Features
Door handle color: body-color · Exhaust: dual exhaust tips · Exhaust tip color: chrome · Front bumper color: body-color · Mirror color: body-color · Rear bumper color: body-color · Rear spoiler: lip · Rear spoiler color: body-color · Rear trunk/liftgate: power operated · Skid plate(s): front and rear · Window trim: chrome
Headrests
Front headrests: adjustable · Number of front headrests: 2 · Number of rear headrests: 3
In Car Entertainment
Connected in-car apps: Google POIs · Infotainment screen size: 7 in.
Instrumentation
Fuel economy display: MPG · Warnings and reminders: low fuel level
Lights
Exterior entry lights: security approach lamps · Headlights: auto delay off · Tail and brake lights: LED
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: integrated turn signals
Passenger Seat
Power adjustments: 8
Rear Seats
Type: 60-40 split bench
Roof
Moonroof: remote operation · Roof rails: aluminum
Safety
Active head restraints: driver · Child seat anchors: LATCH system · Crumple zones: front · Impact sensor: fuel cut-off
Seatbelts
Emergency locking retractors: front · Front seatbelts: 3-point · Seatbelt force limiters: front · Seatbelt pretensioners: front and rear · Seatbelt warning sensor: driver and passenger · Second row seatbelts: 3-point
Seats
Driver seat power adjustments: reclining · Front seat type: bucket · Passenger seat power adjustments: height · Rear headrests: adjustable · Rear seat folding: split · Upholstery: leather
Spare Tire
Mount Location: inside · Size: temporary
Spare Wheel
Rim Type: steel
Suspension
Front Shock Type: gas shock absorbers · Front Spring Type: coil springs · Front Suspension Classification: independent · Front Suspension Type: double wishbones · Rear Shock Type: gas shock absorbers · Rear Spring Type: coil springs · Rear Suspension Classification: independent · Rear Suspension Type: multi-link · Stabilizer bar(s): rear
Telematics
Driver assistance app: roadside assistance · Navigation system: hard drive navigation system · Phone: voice activated · Phone wireless data link: Bluetooth · Satellite communications: mbrace · Smart device app function: maintenance status
Tires
Type: performance
Tires and Rims
Wheel type: aluminum alloy
Windows
Front wipers: variable intermittent · Liftgate window: fixed · Power windows: remote operation · Rear wiper: intermittent
Air Conditioning
Active charcoal air filtration · Automatic climate control front air conditioning · Dual front air conditioning zones
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Driver knee airbags · Passenger airbag deactivation: occupant sensing deactivation · Front side airbags · Rear side curtain airbags
Audio System
Antenna Type: diversity · Bluetooth auxiliary audio input · Single disc in-Dash CD · MP3 player: CD MP3 Playback · Premium Brand: Harman-Kardon · AM/FM radio · Rear audio: separate rear audio · Satellite Radio: SiriusXM · 1 subwoofer · Surround audio: 5.1 · Total Number of Speakers: 14
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel · Front brake diameter: 15.4 · Front brakes: ventilated disc · Rear brake diameter: 13.6 · Rear brakes: ventilated disc
Comfort Features
Armrests: front center · Center console trim: wood · Floor Mat Material: carpet · Floor Material: carpet · Floor Mats: front · Shift knob trim: leather · Steering wheel trim: leather
Convenience Features
Active parking system: driver controlled brake, gas and gear selection · Cargo area power outlet: 12V · Cargo cover: retractable · Center console: front console with armrest · Cupholders: rear · Dimming rearview mirror: auto-dimming · Memorized settings: 3 driver · Multi-function remote: proximity entry system · One-touch windows: 4 · Power outlet(s): 12V front · Power windows: lockout button · Reading lights: front · Steering wheel: tilt and telescopic · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio · Storage: door pockets · Vanity mirrors: dual illuminating
Driver Seat
Adjustable lumbar support: 4-way power · Power adjustments: 14
Drivetrain
4WD Type: full time
Exterior Features
Door handle color: body-color · Exhaust: quad exhaust tips · Exhaust tip color: chrome · Front bumper color: body-color · Mirror color: body-color · Rear bumper color: body-color · Rear spoiler: lip · Rear spoiler color: body-color · Rear trunk/liftgate: liftgate · Skid plate(s): front · Window trim: chrome
Headrests
Front headrests: adjustable · Number of front headrests: 2 · Number of rear headrests: 3
In Car Entertainment
Connected in-car apps: Google POIs · Infotainment screen size: 7 in.
Instrumentation
Fuel economy display: MPG · Warnings and reminders: lamp failure
Lights
Exterior entry lights: security approach lamps · Headlights: Auto on/off · Tail and brake lights: LED
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: integrated turn signals
Passenger Seat
Power adjustments: 14
Rear Seats
Type: 60-40 split bench
Roof
Moonroof: power glass · Roof rails: aluminum
Safety
Active head restraints: driver · Child seat anchors: LATCH system · Crumple zones: rear · Impact sensor: post-collision safety system · Parking sensors: front
Seatbelts
Emergency locking retractors: front · Front seatbelts: 3-point · Seatbelt force limiters: front and rear · Seatbelt pretensioners: front and rear · Seatbelt warning sensor: driver and passenger · Second row seatbelts: 3-point
Seats
Driver seat power adjustments: height · Front seat type: sport bucket · Passenger seat power adjustments: 4-way power lumbar · Rear headrests: adjustable · Rear seat folding: split · Upholstery: leather
Spare Tire
Mount Location: inside · Size: temporary
Spare Wheel
Rim Type: steel
Suspension
Driver Adjustable Suspension: height · Front Shock Type: gas shock absorbers · Front Spring Type: coil springs · Front Suspension Classification: independent · Front Suspension Type: double wishbones · Rear Shock Type: gas shock absorbers · Rear Spring Type: coil springs · Rear Suspension Classification: independent · Rear Suspension Type: multi-link · Stabilizer bar(s): rear
Telematics
Driver assistance app: roadside assistance · Navigation system: hard drive navigation system · Phone: voice activated · Phone wireless data link: Bluetooth · Satellite communications: mbrace · Smart device app function: maintenance status
Tires
Type: performance
Tires and Rims
Wheel type: aluminum alloy
Windows
Front wipers: variable intermittent · Liftgate window: fixed · Power windows: remote operation · Rear wiper: intermittent