In October 2006, Mercedes-Benz was the first manufacturer to begin a BlueTEC offensive within the U.S. passenger vehicle segment to coincide with the introduction of ultra low-sulfur diesel fuel. The E320 BlueTEC was a huge success right from the beginning and was voted “2007 World Green Car of the Year”. Mercedes-Benz is now pushing forward with this initiative with the R, ML and
GL 320 BlueTEC – the world’s first three diesel SUVs which not only meet the particularly demanding targets specified in the U.S. BIN5 (50-state) standard, but are also positioned to fulfill forthcoming stringent EU6 emissions legislation. This puts them well within all current emissions standards for diesel passenger vehicles worldwide.
With characteristics such as low-end torque, improved fuel economy and high performance, the diesel engine has proven itself as an attractive alternative to gasoline engines even in the U.S., during times of increasing fuel prices and growing sensitivity towards CO2 emissions. In the land of minivans, pickups and SUV’s — where driving habits generally feature consistent highway speeds and long distances cross-country — the benefits of diesel present an attractive solution. At the same time, U.S. lawmakers have set extremely stringent emissions legislation for diesel drivetrains. This is why Mercedes-Benz chose the U.S. for the worldwide debut of its in-house developed BlueTEC technology in the E 320 BlueTEC, as well as for the launch of its latest BlueTEC system with AdBlue injection (technical name – Urea SCR System). This innovative driveline technology enables large, high-performance SUVs to meet the limits set by the U.S. BIN5 standard.
Impressive performance, excellent fuel economy and the lowest emissions
The powerful V6 turbodiesel engine under the hood of the new GL, M and R-Class BlueTEC models demonstrates that excellent fuel economy and the lowest emissions are within the grasp of large SUVs. It has an output of 210 bhp and 398 lb.ft. of torque, while boasting outstanding fuel economy. The GL 320 BlueTEC achieves an estimated 23 mpg (highway), which represents a fuel consumption benefit of approximately 20 to 40 percent over a comparable gasoline engine, and makes the Mercedes-Benz GL 320 BlueTEC by far the most fuel efficient full size SUV in the U.S.
The six-cylinder diesel required a few modifications for its application in the new ML 320 BlueTEC, GL 320 BlueTEC and R 320 BlueTEC with AdBlue injection. The piston cavity profile was reworked for an improved fuel/air mix, while its compression ratio was reduced from 17.7 to 16.5. The VNT turbocharger was also optimized and reconfigured, as was the ECU. All three new SUVs are equipped exclusively with the seven speed 7G-TRONIC automatic transmission.
BlueTEC leads to drastic reductions in NOx emissions
As a modular concept for the effective reduction of fuel consumption and emissions in diesel vehicles, BlueTEC technology developed by Mercedes-Benz encompasses a range of complementary technical initiatives designed to minimize engine emissions, as well as to provide effective exhaust gas after-treatment. A systematic, step-by-step approach reduced all relevant emission factors to an absolute minimum, with the application of technologies such as oxidization catalysts and particulate filters. An important goal, however, is the drastic reduction of NOx emissions – the single exhaust component of a diesel engine that remains, by its very nature, higher than that of a gasoline engine.
In order to address this issue, Mercedes-Benz has developed two versions. In the E 320 BlueTEC sold in the U.S. and its European variant, the E 300 BlueTEC, oxidization catalysts and particulate filters are combined with a long-life NOx storage catalyst and an additional SCR catalyst (Selective Catalytic Reduction). The second BlueTEC version is used in the new GL 320 BlueTEC, ML 320 BlueTEC and R 320 BlueTEC. In these new models, AdBlue – a harmless, liquid urea solution – is injected into the exhaust. This releases ammonia, which, in the SCR catalyst downstream, converts up to 88 percent of NOx emissions into harmless nitrogen gas and water.
The individual components of this innovative exhaust technology include:
· Optimization of engine combustion processes in order to reduce internal emissions as much as possible. This includes electronic engine management, four-valve technology, third generation common-rail direct injection with piezo injectors, variable geometry turbocharger with exhaust gas recirculation.
· Oxidization catalysts minimize emissions of carbon monoxide (CO) and unburnt hydrocarbons (HC).
· The particulate filter, which has been standard in all diesel-powered Mercedes-Benz passenger vehicles in many countries since summer 2005, reduces particulate emissions to a virtually undetectable level that is significantly below current EU4 particulate limits (0.025 gram/kilometer). This also fulfills applicable U.S. requirements.
· Nitrogen Oxides are reduced via a NOx storage catalyst in combination with an SCR catalyst, or via AdBlue injection in combination with an SCR catalyst. These highly effective methods of exhaust gas after-treatment enable a reduction in NOx emissions in BlueTEC vehicles of up to 80 percent.
AdBlue injection is particularly beneficial for large vehicles
The choice between a NOx storage catalyst or AdBlue injection for effective reduction of NOx emissions is dependent upon the individual vehicle design, as well as the respective market conditions. AdBlue technology is beneficial for large sedans, pickups and SUVs because it means that the engine no longer needs to run periodically on a rich combustion cycle in order to purge the NOx storage catalyst, which removes harmful nitrogen oxides from the exhaust gas. Large vehicles with higher fuel consumption would require frequent purging, which would ultimately lead to more fuel consumption.
The urea SCR process requires the injection of AdBlue reducing agent into the exhaust line. AdBlue is an aqueous urea solution, which is stored in a small, separate tank. Upon injection into the hot, pre-treated exhaust gas, the AdBlue solution breaks down into its component parts, water and urea. Above temperatures of around 338 degrees Fahrenheit, the urea is converted into Ammonia (NH3) – the active agent in this process. The ammonia is stored within the catalyst and reduces the nitrogen oxides into harmless nitrogen gas as soon as NOx-bearing exhaust gases pass through the catalyst.
The ECU manages the AdBlue injection to ensure that there is always sufficient ammonia stored in the SCR catalyst without flooding it. This is monitored by a NOx sensor.
One small AdBlue tank is all it takes
The urea solution is stored in a dedicated tank on-board the vehicle, and is carried to the injector nozzle via a feed pump. The tank was designed such that a refill of AdBlue is necessary only at regular maintenance intervals. In the R 320 BlueTEC and the ML 320 BlueTEC the tank holds approximately 7 gallons, while in the GL 320 BlueTEC it has a capacity of 8.5 gallons. This is sufficient to ensure that no extra trips to the dealership are required, even under more extreme operating conditions with higher AdBlue consumption, such as towing. The customer plays no direct role in refilling the AdBlue. Service intervals are 10,000 miles.
New styling and increased equipment levels
With its innovative R, M and GL-Class BlueTEC models, Mercedes-Benz is not only demonstrating the potential of diesel drivetrains, but is also offering tailor-made solutions for upscale demands with the most extensive SUV range in the premium segment. The R-Class offers exceptional comfort on long-distance journeys, and the segment’s most generously proportioned and flexible interior, with seating for up to seven. The M-Class is the most successful Mercedes-Benz sports utility vehicle and started the trend towards modern premium SUVs. And, with the GL-Class, Mercedes-Benz leads the entire SUV sector in terms of first class occupant comfort under all conditions - both on and off road.
Standard equipment has been expanded substantially across the M, R and GL-Class ranges. They all now come with the unique PRE-SAFE® predictive occupant protection system and Active Front Head Restraints, as well as a new telematic system developed by Mercedes-Benz, with improved user interface, higher performance and a host of new functions.
More performance, more comfort – new generation telematics
The SUVs now come equipped with a new generation telematics system developed by Mercedes-Benz. It boasts a substantially improved user interface, high performance and a host of new functions. A hands-free system with Bluetooth technology is integrated as standard, as is an aux-in port for connecting mobile audio devices such as an iPod. A new Universal Media Interface is available as an option, for connecting an external music storage device with the SUV’s on-board electronics and operating system. This feature allows track titles to be displayed on both the instrument cluster and on the color screen in the center console, and enables them to be selected via the keys on the multi-function steering wheel. The battery of the audio device is simultaneously charged.
Customers may choose from two head units. Both include features such as a color display, improved radio reception, speed-regulated volume control, a keypad for inputting phone numbers and radio frequencies, as well as a standard Bluetooth interface that enables wireless connection to the hands-free system. Customers in the U.S. can also order HD radio and SIRIUS satellite radio as part of the optional Premium 1 package. With its new generation telematics, Mercedes-Benz is also offering an optimized Voice Recognition system in the Premium 1 package.
Passengers can also enjoy rich, spatial surround sound courtesy of the optional newest generation harman kardon® Logic7® sound system with 5.1 Dolby Digital Surround Sound. With increased performance and a digital signal processor (DSP), it guarantees outstanding clarity and listening pleasure.
For those in the rear, a new entertainment system is available, complete with two large, dual-source, 8-inch screens and a DVD player, as well as two wireless headsets for greater freedom of movement and two remote controls.
Unique safety equipment as standard
When it comes to safety, Mercedes-Benz vehicles have always led the field in the SUV segment. The R, M and GL-Class now come with the PRE-SAFE® predictive occupant protection system and Active Front Head Restraints as standard.
Mercedes-Benz is the benchmark in diesel cars and trucks
70 years ago, Mercedes-Benz was the first manufacturer to implement Rudolf Diesel’s combustion principle in a passenger vehicle. This technology is significantly more efficient than the gasoline engine and has been optimized over many years. A decisive technological leap in 1997 played a significant role in the development of the modern diesel engine - the introduction of Common-rail Direct Injection (CDI) in combination with four-valve technology. Since then, the abbreviation CDI stands not only for unparalleled fuel economy, but also for a huge increase in torque.
If there were any disadvantages of a diesel versus a gasoline engine it was in certain emissions – primarily soot particulates and nitrogen oxides. However, as of fall 2003, Mercedes-Benz had also tackled the particulate issue, with the introduction of the maintenance-free particulate filter. And even though nitrogen oxide emissions have been reduced by approximately 75 percent over the past 15 years through engine-based initiatives, Mercedes-Benz was still not satisfied. With its innovative BlueTEC technology, which was launched in a passenger vehicle for the first time in 2006 in the U.S., Mercedes-Benz hi-tech diesel powertrains fulfill the world’s most stringent exhaust standards. AdBlue injection now makes the new ML 320 BlueTEC, R 320 BlueTEC and GL 320 BlueTEC the world’s cleanest diesel SUVs.
Restyled M-Class
Dynamic, powerful and even more stylish
· New-look front end and rear add stylish touches
· New multifunction steering wheel and high-quality interior
· State-of-the-art entertainment and navigation units on board
· Extensive best-in-class safety features now as standard
The Mercedes-Benz M-Class is the benchmark among modern SUVs. This unique position is thanks to its characteristically dynamic, elegant design, as well as its combination of impressive on and off-road performance with sedan-like comfort. The M-Class also offers safety features that are unparalleled within the SUV segment. These exceptional characteristics are clearly greatly appreciated by buyers, with around 100,000 delivered to U.S. customers since the second generation M-Class was launched in March 2005. The modern SUV continues to be one of the most successful vehicles in this popular market segment.
Mercedes-Benz has considerably upgraded the 2009MY M-Class, with fresh design detailing and even more extensive level of equipment. The premium SUV now boasts a more powerful and athletic look-and-feel, along with even greater character and on-road presence.
The refined exterior of the M-Class is characterized by crisp, dynamic lines and a clear, powerful design language. The redesigned front end and the modified rear give the new generation M-Class a more muscular appearance, while at the same time conveying aesthetic elegance. In short – it is even more stylish.
The front view features a redesigned front bumper with headlamps that exhibit a distinctive step along their lower edge. This step carries through downwards and around the radiator grille to create bold contours. Larger and set lower down, the grille is a further characteristic feature. Divided by three broad, silver ribs with large, angular air intakes and edged in gleaming chrome, the redesigned grille gives the new generation M-Class a more dominant look, while wide-set fog lamps and a reworked stainless steel skid plate for all models make for a broader, more dynamic appearance.
The rear bumper with inset reflectors has also been restyled for a wider, more aggressive appearance. The standard stainless steel skid plate wraps around the twin exhaust system, giving the vehicle a broader stance. The rear light clusters now boast optional LED tailamps, and new powerfully styled mirrors with increased surface area offer improved visibility.
Interior with high quality trim and equipment
The interior of the 2009MY M-Class line has been stylishly upgraded with top quality materials. The center of the door panel now comes clad in MB-Tex as standard. A further focal point of the upgraded interior is the new, four-spoke multi-function steering wheel with chrome detailing and improved user interface, as well as gearshift paddles as standard. The seats have an attractive, sporty design and the driver seat comes standard with a four-stage power lumbar support.
The new M-Class also comes with an all-new high-performance telematic system developed by Mercedes-Benz, featuring further improvements to the user interface and a host of useful new functions. Also standard are a hands-free system with Bluetooth technology and an aux-in port for connecting mobile audio devices such as an iPod. A new Universal Consumer Interface is available as an option, for connecting an external music storage device with the SUV’s on-board electronics and operating system. This feature allows track titles to be displayed on both the instrument cluster and on the color screen in the center console, and enables them to be selected via the keys on the multi-function steering wheel. The battery of the audio device is simultaneously charged.
Customers may choose from two head units. Both include features such as a color display, improved radio reception, speed-regulated volume control, a keypad for inputting phone numbers and radio frequencies, as well as standard Bluetooth interface that enables wireless connection to the hands-free system. With its new generation telematics, Mercedes-Benz is also offering the optimized Voice Recognition voice-activated system as an optional extra.
Passengers can also enjoy rich, spatial surround sound courtesy of the optional newest generation harman kardon® Logic7® sound system with 5.1 Dolby Digital Surround Sound. With 610 Watts and a digital signal processor (DSP), it brings outstanding clarity and listening pleasure to the new M-Class.
For those in the rear, a new entertainment system is also available, complete with two large 8-inch screens with dual-source capability, a centrally integrated DVD player, as well as two wireless headsets for greater freedom of movement and two remote controls.
Unique safety equipment as standard
When it comes to safety, the Mercedes-Benz M-Class has always been a benchmark within the SUV sector. It will now be delivered with preventative occupant protection system PRE-SAFE® and Active Front Head Restraints as standard.
Fuel economy improved
The M-Class is powered by torquey and economical V6 and V8 gasoline and diesel engines, which are now even more frugal than ever. The 4MATIC permanent all-wheel drive system has proven itself beyond measure both on and off road, while the standard equipment automatic transmission 7G-TRONIC with optimized shift action smoothly delivers engine power to the wheels.
The 2009 M-Class is available with four powerplants ranging from the 210 hp ML 320 BlueTEC, the 268 hp ML 350, and the 382 hp ML 550. Detailed refinements have improved fuel economy against outgoing models. At the top of the range is the 503 hp ML 63 AMG.
At a glance:
new design and technology
Exterior design
· New front bumper design with new grille
· New rear bumper design with integrated rear reflectors
· Stainless steel skid plate standard on all models
· New unique front and rear styling for both ML550 and ML63 AMG
· New brushed aluminium roof rails standard on ML550 and ML63 AMG
· New headlamp design for all models
· Larger exterior mirrors
Interior design
· New redesigned four-spoke multifunction steering wheel with shift paddles.
· Door linings in M-B Tex
· Two types of wood trim: burl walnut or brown bird’s-eye maple
Comfort
· 4-way electrically adjustable lumbar support for driver’s seat
· New upholstery pattern
Infotainment
· COMAND system with 6.5-inch color display and new additional functions
· COMAND including hard-disc navigation, Music Register and voice-operated control
· Universal media interface for connecting an iPod and other audio devices
· Enhanced Voice Control system with whole-word recognition capability
· Surround sound system with twelve speakers and an output of 610 watts
· Rear-seat entertainment system with larger 8-inch screens, wireless headphones and dual-source capability.
Safety
· PRE-SAFE® as standard
· Active head restraints as standard
Chassis
· New 19 and 20-inch light-alloy wheels
· 19-inch 5-spoke light-alloy wheels standard for V8
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