M-class gets Grand

MERCEDES-BENZ has released Grand Edition versions of its M-class, which will be replaced by a new third-generation model in Australia within 12 months.

Not to be confused with the GL-class Grand Edition that was announced in Germany last month and could also be sold here, the M-class Grand Edition equipment package became available for the most popular versions of the five-seat luxury SUV in Australia on June 2.

Offered only on volume-selling six-cylinder versions of the M-class, the Grand package includes a host of interior and exterior additions and adds $11,663 to the price of the ML300 CDI, ML350 and ML350 CDI.

Outside, the extensive extras list includes 20-inch 10-spoke bicolor alloy wheels, LED daytime running lights, an AMG grille in high gloss black with chrome highlights, darkened LED tail-lights, metallic paint and blue tinted thermal insulating glass.



Additional cabin cosmetics include ‘Artico’ trim for the seats, door panels, armrests and upper dashboard, ‘Anthracite’ poplar wood trim highlights with chrome inserts, Designo black fabric roof lining, stainless steel door sill panels, floor mats and a ‘Grand Edition’ console badge.

Grand Edition M-class models also gain a long list of extra standard equipment from more expensive V8 models, including an ‘Easy Pack’ power-operated tailgate, interior ambient lighting, an AMG steering wheel with gearshift buttons, ‘Neck Pro’ front head restraints, heated front seats and a COMAND APS multi-media system including 6.5-inch colour display, satellite-navigation, six-CD/DVD player, 4GB hard-drive and ‘Linguatronic’ voice control.

The Grand Edition upgrades bring pricing (excluding dealer delivery and on-road costs) to $97,443 and $104,089 for the diesel-powered ML300 CDI and ML350 CDI respectively, and to $101,028 for the petrol-powered ML350 Grand Edition.

There are no changes to the 3.0-litre turbo-diesel V6 or 3.5-litre petrol V6 and all three models continue to come standard with a seven-speed automatic transmission.