Third-gen M-Class sets class benchmarks for efficiency, now on local shores

Now into its third generation, the Mercedes-Benz M-Class packs more refinement, and notably more efficient than before. Through extensive R&D, the new SUV has managed a 25% increase in fuel efficiency. Since its debut, the M-Class has also received a number of accolades, including the "Golden Steering Wheel" award.

In true fashion of three-pointed star, the M-Class packs an extensive array of driver aids, aimed at enhancing the ride comfort and safety of its occupants. Not forgetting the SUV genes running in its blood, the new M-Class is equipped with extensive off-road capabilities, such as the 4MATIC permanent all-wheel drive system, start-off assist (for ease of starting off from a slope), Downhill Speed Regulation (DSR), as well as a special off-road driving mode, activated with a touch of a 'off-road' button.

A trio of BlueTEC diesel and the new generation of BlueDIRECT petrol powerplants are offered for the new M-Class. Starring the lineup is the ML 250 BlueTEC – a thrifty four-cylinder diesel which has an impressive fuel consumption of just 6.0L / 100km – 28% more efficient than the one it replaces. With the standard 70 litres fuel tank, the ML 250 has a range of 1170km. Even more impressively, when coupled with the optional 93 litres tank, the ML 250 can go for 1500km without stopping for re-fuel.

The afore-mentioned is made possible with state-of-art engineering, including a new seven-speed automatic transmission which boasts a new fuel-efficient torque converter, new friction-optimised bearings and axle drives, as well as low rolling-resistant tyres.

Locally, two variants of the M-Class will be offered: the ML 250 BlueTEC 4MATIC and ML 350 4MATIC BlueEFFICIENCY. Prices start from S$307,888 inclusive of COE.

Technical Specifications
 
Mercedes-Benz ML 250 BlueTEC 4MATIC

Engine 
Arrangment: 4 in-line
Displacement: 2,143cc
Max Power (bhp): 204 @ 4,200 rpm 
Max Torque (Nm): 500 @ 1,600-1,850 rpm

Performance / Fuel Economy
Acceleration (0-100km/h): 9 seconds
Top Speed: 210 km/h
NEDC Combined: 6.0L / 100km

Mercedes-Benz ML 350 4MATIC BlueEFFICIENCY

Engine 
Arrangment:  Vee-6
Displacement: 3,498cc
Max Power (bhp): 306 @ 6,500 rpm 
Max Torque (Nm): 370 @ 3,500-5,250 rpm

Performance / Fuel Economy
Acceleration (0-100km/h): 7.6 seconds
Top Speed: 235 km/h
NEDC Combined: 8.5L / 100km