I would be interested in replacing our 2000 ML but when I got as much information as I can glean, which was pretty extensive, I found no reference about a towing package, towing capacities, or even the word towing. It is pretty strange that an SUV wouldn’t be able to be used fully as a Sport or Utility vehicle.

To a large extent we bought our current ML because it has an 1800 lb. payload and 5000 lb. towing capacity. That leaves plenty of room for a variety of uses, which we have done.

Anyone have information or where to get more? The MBUSA site doesn’t have the 2006 information yet.

Jim W.

The only real info I know is that they opted for a unibody construction this time around...that may affect towing capacity somewhat.

It wouldn't be very smart marketing to produce an SUV that has no towing provisions!

__________________
2009 ML350 (106K) - Family vehicle
2001 CLK430 Cabriolet (80K) - Wife's car
2005 BMW 645CI (138K) - My daily driver
2016 Mustang (32K) - Daughter's car

According to Wolfgang's site, the trailer hitch is a factory option (#550), not available as an accesory, that requires the Premium, Appearance or Trim package. It is rated at 5,000 lbs.

I suspect they've beefed up the unibody similar the way Honda has with its new Ridgeline pickup.

Thank you for the reference to Wolfgang's page. It was good to see the 2006 trailer hitch as an option and a 5000# towing capacity (current ML's rated for 7715# in Germany!) even if they were listed a preliminary figures. Looks like the 2006 should tow some kind of load. Now just get that diesel into the US market.

Jim W.

below is a word document that gives some info for the 2006 ML.
please let me know if this was helpful
Ray
mercedessd@cox.net

Thank you, Ray. Reconfirms the hitch option, $490, obviously indicating the ability to tow. Nice chart of all the options. I'll have to make a trip to the dealer - we did get a flyer from them about showing one off.

A concern will be if there are so many changes that the 2006 will have all the growing pains similar to the earlier ML's.

Jim W.

jim,
no problem, i have a dealer ordering guide in pdf i can email to you. it was too large to post here, let me know if you want it.
Ray
mercedessd@cox.net