Large, circular air vents and padded rails along the bottom of the center console lend the impression of rugged capability while a somewhat dainty
gear selector stalk juts from the steering column.
The influence of Mercedes» saloons can be seen on the dashboard and centre console, most notably on the multi-function steering wheel, which features touch - sensitive controls for the infotainment system, an electric handbrake and
the gear selector stalk mounted on the steering column, as opposed to the more traditional gearshift in the centre console.
Not exact matches
The other weirdness is the
gear selector, which I have never liked because it's where the wiper
stalk is supposed to be.
It receives new instrument graphics, a column - mounted
gear selector — Mercedes» so - called direct shift
stalk that frees up space on the center console for larger cupholders and added oddment stowage, round ventilation units and higher - quality trim panels.
In a car with such a mature, masculine character, the dainty
gear -
selector stalk seems even more sad than it does in Mercedes» other cars.
I'm not a fan, though, of the
gear -
selector stalk being on the steering wheel.
The additional function buttons to note are the drive mode
selector adjacent to the
gear lever and the damper setting toggle button that replaces the lane - keeping assist button on the left - hand column
stalk.
Today's Mercedes - Benz automatic transmission
gear selector is placed in a
stalk on the right side of the steering column.