Mercedes to make design changes to updated M-class

The facelifted Mercedes-Benz M-class is expected to go on sale in the international market in the first half of 2015.

The updated ML will take some of its front-end styling cues from the Concept Coupé SUV. A new four-bar grille can be seen in the centre of the car, with a prominent Mercedes badge and new air intakes lower down on the front bumper. This look will also bring the ML in line with the upcoming ML-Coupé, which is due to arrive in international markets in the second half of 2015, as well as the recently-launched GLA.

Other changes compared to the current car - which was launched in 2011 - include headlight clusters similar to the ones used on the latest S-class and C-class models, as well as a redesigned rear end, which features a prominent boot lip and metallic detailing lower down. New trim and material upgrades to the M-class's interior should help push its premium credentials, while a larger central infotainment screen will come with the latest generation of the German marquee's COMAND infotainment system. The car is also likely to come with the same touch-sensitive controller as the latest Mercedes models, including the new V-class.

Reports suggest that Mercedes could also bring in a new hybrid model to compete against Porsche's Cayenne S E-Hybrid. Sources also suggest a new version, dubbed ML400 that could replace the ML350 as part of the updated range. That model would use the same 3.0-litre direct-injection V6 petrol engine and have the same 328bhp output as the SL400. It is also likely that Mercedes will retire its current 7G Tronic seven-speed automatic transmission in favour of a new nine-speed variant.