These are the clearest spy photos yet of the upcoming 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML, which was caught testing in Germany with minimal camouflage ahead of its market launch later this year.
The new ML could easily be mistaken for a facelift version of the current model as Mercedes-Benz’s styling approach follows an evolutionary path. A closer look reveals a slightly boxier shape with more sculpted lines and new details such as the longer tail lamps and a more angular grille up front.
The interior shots snagged by our scoop photographers show a completely redesigned dashboard with a prominent center console featuring new switchgear and a large LCD screen for the infotainment system.
Underneath the skin, the 2012 ML shares its chassis with the new Jeep Grand Cherokee and Dodge Durango models as one of the last remnants from the former Daimler-Chrysler partnership.
At launch, we expect to see Mercedes’ latest gasoline engines including the 3.5-liter V6 and 4.6-liter V8 units along with the usual array of V6 diesel options. A next-generation hybrid powertrain with plug-in capability is also said to be in the cards, while a flagship AMG model sporting the German firm’s newly developed 5.5-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine in place of the current version’s naturally aspirated 6.2-liter lump will follow shortly after the presentation of the standard ML.
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