One of the few surprises at the New York Auto Show was the launch of a new hybrid model by Mercedes-Benz. Based on the ML-Class SUV, this hybrid version was designed and built specifically for the U.S. and Canadian markets.
The Mercedes Blue Efficiency hybrid system is comprised of an electric motor, gasoline motor and battery packs. The 3.5-liter V6 engine makes 275hp and 258 ft-lbs of torque and when combined with the electric motor makes a total of 335hp and 381 ft-lbs of torque. This is 80 percent of the power of the V8 engine as well as 90 percent of the torque of the V8 engine.
As expected, fuel economy is impressive with 24 mpg on the highway and 21 mpg in the city. Compared to V8 versions, the ML450 Hybrid uses 50 percent less fuel. It even uses 30 percent less fuel than a V6.
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Mercedes Launches ML450 Hybrid on AutoGuide.com
Mercedes Launches ML450 Hybrid
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