Press Release
A new era in safety: PRE-SAFE???????????????????? makes its debut in this vehicle class
The Mercedes-Benz M-Class also sets the pace for other off-roaders to follow in terms of safety. Its occupant protection system is underpinned by a self-supporting body structure with large deformation zones in the front and rear ends and a wealth of top-class state-of-the-art technology fitted as standard. This includes adaptive two-stage airbags for the driver and front passenger, front sidebags and windowbags, as well as belt tensioners and belt force limiters for all seats. In the event of a rear-end collision, the newly developed NECK-PRO crash-responsive head restraints provide additional protection for the driver and front passenger.With the option of adding the anticipatory occupant protection system PRE-SAFE???????????????????? to the mix, the new Mercedes Off-Roader raises the bar in its class. This multi-award-winning technology provides a reflex response to critical driving situations where an accident threatens to occur, preparing the car and occupants for a collision. PRE-SAFE???????????????????? acts in advance to tighten the driver and front passenger seat belts, bring the fore-and-aft setting and the cushion and backrest angle of the electrically adjustable front passenger seat (optional) into a more favourable position and close the sunroof (optional) if the vehicle is about to overturn.
It is by forming an unparalleled synergy of active and passive safety that PRE-SAFE???????????????????? can prepare car and occupants for a possible impact. The system is based on a link-up with the anti-lock braking system (ABS), Brake Assist and the Electronic Stability Program (ESP?), whose sensors identify dangerous driving manoeuvres. PRE-SAFE???????????????????? uses the data from these sensors to optimise occupant protection before a collision.
The new M-Class also boasts exceptional long-term quality ??????????????????????????????????????? another Mercedes trademark. Part of the standard specification for the Off-Roader is a new type of paint finish developed on the back of nano-technology, which made its series-production debut in Mercedes-Benz vehicles. Offering significantly improved scratch resistance compared to conventional non-metallic or metallic paint finishes, nano-particle clearcoat provides a noticeably enhanced shine. Like all Mercedes passenger cars, the M-Class also comes with the 30-year MobiloLife mobility and value-retention warranty.
Up there with the best: greater comfort and more space
The interior of the new M-Class also exhibits typical Mercedes quality, thanks to higher-quality materials, more pleasant touch and feel characteristics and significantly improved spaciousness for all the vehicle??????????????????????????????????????s passengers. For example, at 880 mm, the distance between the front and rear seats is 15 mm greater than that in the outgoing model, achieving a level more familiar in a luxury-class saloon. Knee-room for the rear passengers has been increased by 35 mm and elbow width by 32 mm.M-Class customers can select the seats for their new Off-Roader to suit their personal comfort requirements. In addition to the standard-fitted front seats with electrically adjustable height, backrest and cushion angle, sports seats with special backrest contours can also be specified.
Up to 2050 litres of load capacity offers ample space for luggage and sports equipment
The cushions and backrests of the rear seats are split 63:37 and can be folded down. Removable cushions can be ordered as an option, creating a level loading surface stretching 2.10 metres in length through the rear of the car. Maximum load capacity stands at 2050 litres, exceeding that offered by its predecessor model by 30 litres (VDA measuring method).The proven EASY PACK system makes the boot area of the M-Class easier to load and unload. Among other features, it can be supplied as an option with an electri-cally operated tailgate and a package designed to secure items safely in place in the load area.
State-of-the-art assistance systems more familiar from luxury-class Mercedes models help to relieve the stress on the driver, raise comfort and further improve safety. The M-Class is available as an option with the newly developed multi-zone THERMOTRONIC automatic climate control system, the PARKTRONIC parking aid and the control and display system COMAND APS with Europe-wide DVD navigation. Bi-xenon headlamps with the Active Light System and the cornering light function (optional) enhance driving safety during the hours of darkness.
A success story beginning in 1997: blazing a trail for modern SUVs
With its unique design concept, the Mercedes-Benz M-Class led the way for a new generation of off-roaders on its premiere in 1997, and a whole series of international prizes and awards have since underlined its exceptional design, off-road performance, functionality, driving pleasure and safety.A total of over 620,000 drivers around the world have so far opted for the original ???????????????????????????????????Sport Utility Vehicle???????????????????????????????? (SUV), making it one of the most successful models in its class. And the arrival of the second-generation M-Class in spring 2005 is set to open a new chapter in this automotive success story.
