Mercedes-Benz has unveiled its new third-generation M-Class SUV. It is bigger - slightly longer and wider - and sits a little lower than the outgoing model. It will arrive here in April/May next year.
Built in its plant in the United States, the German premium carmaker claims the new M-Class comes equipped with a host of improvements that will set a new standard in the SUV segment.
From the outside, you could say the new M-Class has been given a more defined, forceful appearance with new headlamps and grille. A chrome surround bumper, mounted daytime running lights, and the introduction of a deep, broad front to rear protective under guard, combine to give the finished product an even more stylish, high quality look.
Offering the best of both worlds, Mercedes-Benz says its new M-Class links a strong off-road heritage to the comfort of a luxury premium saloon. Inside, the cabin has been made more spacious and comfortable, with more front/rear elbow room and vibration and acoustic control features. Visually, the most striking element is a new dashboard finished in aluminium and wood and a choice of upholstery. Driver comforts are well catered for with a raft of standard and optional high tech infotainment systems.
Equipped with permanent four-wheel drive and new 7-G Tronic seven-speed automatic transmission, the M-Class is powered by engines that work in harmony with weight reductions, low rolling resistance tyres, automatic stop/start function, improved air flow (Cd value 0.32 ) and friction-reducing technology.
High on its list of attributes is a new engine range (two diesel and one petrol ) that delivers fuel economy about 25 per cent better on average than the model it replaces.
In Ireland, the version most likely to appeal will be the new 204bhp ML250 CDI BlueTEC 4-MATIC (or 250 CDI for short ). Powered by a 2.1-litre, four-cylinder turbo-diesel unit, it delivers power similar to its predecessor while consuming 28 per cent less fuel (6-litres/ 100km ) with lower CO2 emissions (158g/km ). Top speed is 210km/h with a 0-100km/h time of nine seconds.
A second diesel version - the new 3-litre, V6, 258bhp ML350 BlueTEC 4-MATIC – is equally frugal delivering a 24 per cent reduction in consumption with lower emissions (179g/km ) despite a 27bhp increase in power. Top speed is 224km/h and 0-100km/h is a faster 7.4 seconds. Both are very impressive.
The same could be said of the new 3.5-litre, V6, 306bhp, ML350 BlueEFFICIENCY petrol version – a model that outperforms its predecessor in every way yet returns a 25 per cent reduction in fuel consumption against a top speed of 235km/h and a 0-100km/h figure of seven seconds.
The new 250 CDI will have an annual road tax of €447 with the 350 CDI coming in at €630.
Mercedes-benz boasts that other notable features of the new M-Class are a new on/off road package that provides six transmission modes, depending on road conditions, air suspension, anti roll stabilization, adaptive damping that moves from firm to soft, electric steering, and a tightest-in-its-segment turning circle combine to boost driving pleasure.
A full suite of safety features includes a comprehensive range of airbags and warning systems, drowsiness-detection,tyre-pressure monitoring, adaptive brake lights, electronic brake assist, and numerous other standard and optional items already familiar from the C, E and S-Class ranges.
Mercedes-Benz sales manager in Ireland Ciaran Allen told the Advertiser that the new M-Class would be priced to maintain what he called “the brand’s competitive position” in keeping with recent policy.
Describing the new M-Class as “an SUV with a social conscience”, Mr Allen said its fuel-saving features and low emissions would enhance its appeal among those seeking an on/off road vehicle that “does not hit the planet or the pocket”.
