Under the Hood

Adapted from the engine in the automaker’s S-Class sedan and SL-Class roadster, the all-aluminum, 5.0-liter V-8 in the G500 produces 292 horsepower and 336 pounds-feet of torque. Each engine cylinder uses a three-valve twin-spark setup. An electronically controlled five-speed-automatic transmission sends the power to a full-time four-wheel-drive system with a Low range, which is fully synchronized for shift-on-the-fly operation at up to 15 mph. Mercedes-Benz’s Electronic Stability Program is also installed.

    See also:

    Starting procedure with the SmartKey
    - To start a gasoline engine: turn the SmartKey to position 3 in the ignition lock and release it as soon as the engine is running. - To start a diesel engine: turn the SmartKey to position 2 ...

    Lap evaluation
    This function is only available if you have stored at least two laps and have stopped the RACETIMER. Press or on the steering wheel to select the AMG menu. Press the button repeatedly ...

    Utility
    With all that power under the M-Class' hood, along with its sporty nature and comfortable cabin, it's easy to forget this is still an SUV. That means the M-Class better do a good job of hauling th ...