Although we still have a good amount of time to wait before the next generation Mercedes M-Class is unveiled, spy photos of the 2012 model have begun to surface.  As you would expect from a model roughly two years away from its unveiling, the ML is heavily disguised, leaving us to speculate what exactly is in store for the next version of the SUV.

Early rumors indicate a diesel-electric hybrid M-Class is in the works, a strong possibility considering a gas-electric hybrid M-Class should be arriving later this year.  Other rumors indicate the model could receive a plug-in variant – one that features an 80hp (60kW) electric motor paired with a twin-turbocharged and direct-injected 3.5L V6 while boasting the ability to travel up to 18 miles on electric power alone.

At this point it's far too early to state specifics of the 2012 Mercedes ML, but it's safe to say the number one task Mercedes engineers face in developing the next M-Class is deciding how best to implement alternative drive systems and subsequently better the SUV's fuel efficiency.

We'll keep you posted as new details of the 2012 Mercedes M-Class are released; in the meantime, keep scrolling for few more pics (click to enlarge), or head over to Motor Authority for the full photo gallery.

Enjoy ladies and gentlemen.