The exterior of the M-Class is a bullish proposition. And yet its dynamic proportions are defined by subtle contours. Alloy wheels and distinctive wings with brush guard set the tone. The radiator grille with chrome trim, the front apron with underride guard, the distinctive, sweeping exterior mirrors and tinted tail lights, as well as the dual-pipe exhaust system underline the vehicle’s sporty credentials at first glance. Optional clear-glass tail lights with LED technology are also available, as are bi-xenon headlamps with active light function and new LED daytime driving lamps. Practical equipment includes the standard-specification roof rails and optional trailer coupling.

It is not only the optional two-tone interior design which deserves the valuation "luxurious": the materials, with their enhanced quality feel and superb workmanship do so, too. The steering wheel – equipped as standard with gearshift paddles, by the way – is trimmed in fine nappa leather. The door centre panels are covered as standard (and the dashboard optionally) in high-quality ARTICO man-made leather. Behind their covers, powerful loudspeakers can be heard, but can hardly be seen. Optionally, the M-Class can be equipped with an instrument cluster with two-colour leather cover and elegant leather upholstery.