2010 Mercedes-Benz ML450 Hybrid to be Available Next Week

In brief: The 2010 Mercedes-Benz ML450 Hybrid crossover hits showrooms tomorrow.

Vehicle in the news

Make/Model: ML450 Hybrid
Manufacturer: Mercedes-Benz

The word

The ML450 is a crossover whose two-mode hybrid system was co-developed by General Motors, Daimler, BMW and Chrysler. While somewhat different, it is very similar to the ActiveHybrid system in the BMW X6.

One of the bigger differences, however, is the focus. This new Mercedes has focused on efficiency, unlike the BMW. The ML450 has an Atkinson-style Mercedes 3.5l V6 engine putting out 335hp/381lb-ft (combined with the motors).

Compared to its cousin the ML350 Bluetech diesel, the ML450 gets 21/24mpg (city/highway) vs. 18/25mpg.

Mercedes has opted not to sell the ML450 Hybrid, however, and is offering it instead only with a lease option. Mercedes USA spokesman Rob Moran says this is "due to a limited supply of batteries available."

And so ...

Hitting showrooms tomorrow, this crossover is a higher-end, European luxury vehicle with interesting options, but no purchase.

Photo credits: Mercedes-Benz