IndianAutosBlog.com readers have been told about Mercedes India’s interest in assembling the next generation M-Class next year followed by the larger GL-Class in 2013 at their Pune plant. For them, it comes as no surprise that a model has been spotted in Mumbai’ Air Cargo Complex. Currently the GL- and M-Class models are imported from Europe.
This image was snapped by Team-BHP member DocTorque using his Blackberry.
The new ML is powered by a 3.0-liter turbo-diesel V-6 producing 240 horsepower paired to a 7 speed automatic transmission. On-board is a list of fuel saving technologies such as smart oil and water pump, and AC compressor. The fuel economy stands at an acceptable 9.78 Kmpl for the European model, the ARAI figures are expected to be slightly better.
The new Mercedes ML Class you see here will be assembled in India this year. A YouTube user in Europe saw the mule parked on the side of a road and decided to inspect it closely. The GL and M-Class are brought to India presently through the CBU channel. The SKD operation (Semi-Knock Down) will be adopted for these two utility vehicles in 2011.
Regular readers would have seen the 2012 Mercedes Benz ML-Class renderings posted earlier. It is now certain that the next generation model will use the hybrid powertrain developed for the S-Class.
The current generation Mercedes ML-Class which we reviewed earlier, didn’t throw up any major drawbacks even when we put it through some of the roughest possible terrain. The new model will be slightly smaller but the wheelbase will remain same, maybe Mercedes have struck the right balance between offering customers the best possible comfort and handling.
IndianAutosBlog.com readers have been told about Mercedes India’s interest in assembling the next generation M-Class next year followed by the larger GL-Class in 2013 at their Pune plant. For them, it comes as no surprise that a model has been spotted in Mumbai’ Air Cargo Complex. Currently the GL- and M-Class models are imported from Europe.
