2008 New York Auto Show Preview: 2009 Mercedes-Benz M-Class

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STUTTGART, Germany — Since it was last redesigned in April 2005, this week Mercedes-Benz unveiled a refreshed M-Class for 2009. The updated Mercedes SUV gets a redesigned front and rear end, new interior appointments and a new four-spoke multifunction steering wheel with added technology.

Reshaped headlamps help define the M-Class' revised front lines, while the rear gets new integrated reflector strips, as well as taillights with a smoked-glass look.

New optional two-tone leather dresses up the cabin and a four-spoke leather multifunction steering wheel with chrome trim puts the latest Mercedes infotainment controls at your fingers. Integrated features include a Bluetooth hands-free system, voice control recognition and an aux-in connection for iPods and the like.

The high-end Mercedes-Benz ML63 AMG gets its own fresh look courtesy of new front and rear aprons with a chromed underguard, and a larger AMG grille. New 20-inch AMG light-alloy wheels complete the standard exterior modifications.

What this means to you: Mercedes gives the 2009 M-Class a mid-generation dose of added refinement. — Kelly Toepke, News Editor