MONTVALE, New Jersey — Mercedes-Benz has introduced the 2010 ML450 Hybrid, which it says is the first European full hybrid vehicle to be offered in the U.S.
The midsize utility vehicle mates a 275-horsepower 3.5-liter V6 engine with two powerful electric motors. The system boasts a combined output of 335 hp and torque of 381 pound-feet, as well as EPA ratings of 21 miles per gallon in city driving and 24 mpg on the highway.
At low speeds, the vehicle runs on battery power alone, up to 34 mph. A stop-start system turns off the gasoline engine when the vehicle is coasting and then restarts it automatically under throttle. Energy is stored in a nickel-metal hydride battery pack.
Mercedes is marketing the ML450 Hybrid initially as a lease-only vehicle, priced at $659 a month for 36 months or $549 a month for 60 months.
Inside Line says: The specs are impressive. Now it's time to see what the market demand is like with the factory-subsidized lease deal. — Paul Lienert, Correspondent
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btyler227 says:
10:18 AM, 11/17/2009
I'll sacrifice the power for the better MPG in the X5 35d. To me, better MPG is ultimately better on the environment. Come on IL! Whats the CO2 dump of the ML450h?