Internet Strikes Again: 2012 Mercedes-Benz M-Klasse Leaked

It seems that Mercedes-Benz has much tighter security when it comes to its new vehicles than BMW does, as the new M-Klasse was leaked onto the internet only a few days before its official debut, unlike the 1-Series that still had a couple of months to go. Jokes aside, we can finally show you the production-ready of the Merc’ SUV.

The images come from scans of brochures made for the debut that landed in the hands of German automotive magazine Motor-Talk. The most important changes are in the form of a restyled rear fascia and flatter taillamps that better incorporate styling elements from the carmaker’s saloon range.

The 2012 Mercedes Benz M-Klasse will also ditch the traditional moonroof in favor of a panoramic version. The grainy images available on German Car Forum show a reworked interior that offers a far more modern appearance that includes what appear to be more upmarket materials.

How do we know that the new M-Klasse is coming this week? Well, the info was well hidden amongst all the sales figures from the company’s latest report. The most recent reports indicate the unveil will come either today or on Thursday, June 9th. Most likely, the first info will appear today, with a full media attack to come in two days’ time.

As for what’s going to change under the bonnet, various media reports indicate that the ML might be offered with a diesel-electric hybrid powertrain or will include a plug-in hybrid powertrain that will use a 3.5-liter V6 in conjunction with an 80 hp electric motor. Of course, Mercedes will also introduce a petrol-electric hybrid powertrain that should be borrowed from the current ML450 Hybrid.