Mercedes-Benz whipped the covers from its all-new, third generation M-Class SUV range at the Frankfurt Motor Show. As you would expect, it’s a stunner, loaded with ground-breaking new technologies and powered by a range of fuel-efficient engines.
Looks are superb – the new M-Class continues the tradition of the distinctive C-pillar shape which is the hallmark of Mercedes’ top-selling SUV but brings a powerful new styling direction and improved aerodynamics (drag CD 0.32 – the best in this segment). It appears longer in the roofline which now has a downward slope, the rear treatment brings distinctive new wraparound tail-lights and a blackout treatment disguises the side windows for an almost coupe-like profile.
Inside is a totally new look highlighted by a sloping dome shape for the dashboard which brings the new Mercedes-Benz M-Class closer to the current E-Class and S-Class sedans for interior style. There’s also extra elbow room front and rear and the 2010-litre cargo capacity is claimed to be the best in this segment.
As you would expect from ‘Benz, safety features are right up to the mark and include an active bonnet for enhanced pedestrian safety.
The 3.5-litre, V6 petrol engine for the ML 350 4MATIC BlueEFFICIENCY gets third-generation direct injection, multi-spark ignition and a new stratified combustion process to improve fuel consumption by 25 per cent to 8.5l/100kms.
Of the diesels, the ML 350 BlueTEC, 3.0-litre V6 delivers better performance and fuel consumption is improved by 24 per cent to 6.8l/100kms.
The entry-level ML 250 BlueTEC replaces the V6 ML 300CDI with a four-cylinder engine delivering remarkable fuel consumption of 6.0l/100kms (28 per cent better than its predecessor). Mercedes says the new ML 250 BlueTEC is good for 1500kms on one tank of diesel.
