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Popular Science Calls Mercedes-Benz M-Class 'Best of What's New'

11 November 1997

Mercedes-Benz M-Class Wins A Popular Science 'Best of What's New' Award; New Sport Utility Gets Accolade from 'The What's New' Magazine

    MONTVALE, N.J., Nov. 11 -- The Mercedes-Benz M-Class
all-activity vehicle has won a "Best of What's New" award from Popular Science
magazine.  In the tenth annual "Best of What's New," the editors of Popular
Science celebrate the top products and greatest achievements in science and
technology during 1997.
    Going on sale today, the December "Best of What's New" issue of Popular
Science says the M-Class "civilizes the sport-utility while retaining the
ruggedness demanded by today's off-roader."  Also mentioned is the new four-
wheel traction control system which sets the M-Class apart from its
competitors.  "Capping it off is a new type of four-wheel-drive system using
ABS-related technology to maximize traction at the wheel that's gripping the
road.  All for a highly competitive $33,950 base price," says the magazine's
editors.
    Already acclaimed as a segment leader in technology, performance and
versatility, the new Mercedes M-Class establishes new standards for other
sport utility vehicles to follow by combining the benefits of these vehicles
-- true off-road capability, rugged design, generous cargo room and towing
capacity -- with the performance and handling, safety, quality and comfort of
a Mercedes-Benz passenger car.
    The Mercedes-Benz ML320, which is powered by a new 3.2-liter V6 engine,
competes in the heart of the premium SUV segment -- along with vehicles such
as the Ford Explorer and Jeep Grand Cherokee -- and is produced at a new,
dedicated factory in Tuscaloosa, Alabama.
    The Mercedes-Benz M-Class was also recognized recently as the Truck of the
Year by Motor Trend magazine.

SOURCE  Mercedes-Benz of North America Inc.