Mercedes-Benz is celebrating the successful M-Class with a “Special Edition” model highlighted by noticeably enhanced features and an exciting appearance, at no additional cost. The new 2nd generation model M-Class is due to arrive in Australia late 2005.

Since the it first went on sale in September 1998, over 13,000 Australians have taken delivery of the M-Class luxury off-roader, a vehicle that brought to Australia’s unique market place an unprecedented combination of off-road muscle and street credibility to cope with the sheer variety of Australian conditions.

The unique features of the latest “Special Edition” model include a bonnet that is outfitted with two attractive power domes, an anodized aluminium roof railing, 17-inch aluminium wheels with 275/55 R 17 wide-profile tyres, soft leather and high-quality Alcantara and electrically adjustable sports seats for the driver and front passenger.

With its dynamic appearance and exclusive interior, the new special model M-Class, applicable to 2005 model-year vehicles, will fulfil the wishes of very discerning drivers beginning this month.

Other exclusive features of the “Special Edition” are the tinted glass covering the tail lights, the chrome facing on the door handles, the rear hatch and the special model emblems fixed to the driver’s and front passenger’s doors.

In addition to the standard colours, this M-Class special model is optionally available with the exclusive Cubanite Silver metallic paint.

Inside, the “Special Edition” offers a luxurious setting. The standard electrically adjustable front sport seats with seat heating are covered with leather and have high-quality Alcantara inserts. The same leather, which is available in three colours, is used as trim for the steering wheel, gearshift and selector lever, as well as for the centre sections of the door’s interior.

The unique character of the special model is accentuated by precious wood features available in light birch with a natural grain finish or in black burr walnut. The character is also enhanced by the cockpit instruments that are equipped with white needles and subtle chrome rings; a sliding cover for the centre console with a precious-wood finish and a chrome handle; and velour, logo-bearing floor mats.

The special model combines these exclusive features with proven M-Class technology that ensures high levels of driving safety, comfort and superior off-road performance. The 4ETS permanent, electronically controlled four-wheel drive system functions without a conventional limited-slip differential. Thanks to its towing capacity of up to 2,650 kilograms (braked), an exemplary cargo volume of up to 2,020 litres (VDA measuring method) and a versatile interior, the M-Class is a vehicle that provides tremendous utility and can fulfil just about any job that everyday life throws in its way.

The ”Special Edition” is available with proven five-, six- and eight-cylinder engines and includes numerous enhancements which further accentuate the previous “Luxury” design and equipment package.

Recommended retail prices for the M-Class “Special Edition” are: