2015 Mercedes-Benz M-Class

NEW FOR 2015:

-ML 400 replaces ML 350

-3.0L biturbo V6 replaces 3.5L naturally-aspirated V6

-Passive blind spot assist standard on all trims

-Eco start/stop function added in ML 400 trim

-New optional 21-inch matte black wheel for ML 63 AMG trim

The 2015 model year brings evolutionary change to the ML's engine compartment. A biturbo 3.0L V6 becomes the entry-level gasoline engine, replacing last year's 3.5L V6; the new motor boasts 329 hp and 354 lb-ft of torque, increases of 27 and 81 respectively. Otherwise, Benz's mid-size SUV carries on as it was: a 3.0L turbodiesel good for 240 hp and 455 lb-ft powers ML 350 BlueTEC models, ML 550 trim comes with a 4.6L biturbo V8 that makes 402 hp and 443 lb-ft, and the performance-biased ML 63 AMG gets a 5.5L biturbo V8 generating 518 hp and 516 lb-ft in standard tune, or 550 hp and 560 lb-ft with the optional AMG performance package.

All four engines are paired with a seven-speed automatic transmission that powers four wheels through M-B's 4MATIC all-wheel drive system.

Standard features shared between ML 350 BlueTEC, ML 400 and ML 550 models include electromechanical power steering, AMG styling package, LED daytime running lights and taillights, cros-drilled brake rotors with branded calipers, power-folding side mirrors, steering wheel-mounted shift paddles, memory package with power-adjustable steering column and lumbar support, ambient interior lighting, illuminated front door sills, Comand Online with MB apps, and satellite radio.

ML 550 trim adds standard navigation and air suspension.

ML 63 AMG trim includes active curve system, air suspension with adaptive damping, silver branded brake calipers, active bi-xenon headlights, adaptive highbeam assist, AMG-specific stainless steel doorsills and pedals, leather dashboard, velour floormats, 4.5-inch colour instrument cluster display with race timer, harman/kardon 14-speaker stereo, and passive blind spot and lane keeping assist systems.

ML 350 and 400 trims get 19-inch wheels; ML 550 uses 20-inchers, and AMG models get 21-inch wheels with high-performance tires.