2011 Mercedes ML-Class Owner's Manual - Page 172

170 Driving tips Driving in mountainous terrain Approach/departure angle gradient-climbing capability depends on the off-road conditions. RBefore tackling steep downhill gradients, select shift range 1. RDrive slowly. RAvoid high engine speeds - drive at a suitable engine speed (maximum 3000 rpm). RUse the braking power of the engine when driving down a slope. Observe the engine speed, do not overrev the engine. RCheck the brakes after driving off-road for a long time. Driving and parking : Approach/departure angle, front ; Approach/departure angle, rear G Warning! : Steel-spring vehicles 27° :27 ; 22° 26° Never turn the vehicle around on steep inclines. The vehicle might roll over. If the vehicle cannot complete the attempted climb, back it down in reverse gear. : Vehicles with the AIRMATIC package Raised level Highway level 31° 25° :28 ; i Hill start assist will aid you when pulling away on a hill. For more information, see "Hill start assist" (Y page 142). Maximum gradient climbing ability On good road surfaces, the maximum gradient climbing capability of your vehicle is 100%, which corresponds to an approach/ departure angle of 45°. Note that the vehicle's gradient-climbing capability depends on the off-road conditions. Accelerate carefully and make sure that the wheels do not spin when driving on steep terrain. 25° 18° : 29° 24° ; AMG vehicles Raised level Highway level RComply 26° 21° 28° 24° with the rules for off-road driving. RDo not drive at an angle on slopes, inclines or gradients, but instead follow the direct line of fall. The maximum gradient-climbing capability of your vehicle is 100%, which corresponds to an approach/departure angle of 45°. Note that the vehicle's 27 Vehicles 28 Vehicles i If the load on the front axle is reduced when pulling away on a steep uphill slope, the front wheels have a tendency to spin. 4ETS recognizes this and brakes the wheels accordingly. The rear wheel torque is increased and it is easier to pull away. with the AMG Sports package. with the AMG Sports package.