Mercedes Benz M-Class gets the curves under control

Mercedes-Benz' new M-Class pulls styling cues from the C-Class range. Photo / Supplied

Mercedes-Benz has confirmed that its next-generation M-Class SUV will have four-cylinder power for the first time when it arrives in New Zealand around the middle of next year.

The new model, which picks up styling cues from the company's sedans - including sculpted door panels from the new CLS - will carry the 2.2-litre turbodiesel found in the latest C-Class sedan and wagon, reviewed in Driven last week.

The 152kW BlueTec engine will be the most efficient in the M-Class line-up, delivering the same 150kW and 500Nm outputs as the outgoing 3-litre V6-powered ML300 CDI but improving economy by around 28 per cent, or an ultimate range from the fuel tank of 1170km.

Exhaust emissions will be significantly lower at around 158gr/km, thanks to automatic start/stop, better aerodynamics and more efficient electrical systems.

The frugal Euro 6-compliant engine is one of two diesel units for the redesigned M-Class, which will be launched in Europe and the US after its world debut at the Frankfurt motor show in September. A hybrid version is also expected later in the vehicle's production cycle.

Although the wheelbase is the same as its predecessor's, the new M-Class is longer, wider and lower than before, freeing up more space in the five-seater cabin.

It shares chassis components with Jeep's new Grand Cherokee because development began before Daimler's split from Chrysler.

Helping efficiency gains is an upgraded seven-speed automatic transmission allied to the 4Matic four-wheel drive system. It is dubbed "7G-Tronic Plus" and comprises a new economy-biased torque converter.

Selective dampers, active anti-roll bars and locking differentials are available as part of an optional off-road package, this time with six driving modes for the upgraded 7G-Tronic comprising two-speed transfer case, longitudinal differential lock, underbody guard and enhanced Airmatic air suspension functionality to raise ground clearance to 285mm and fording depth to 600mm.

Other technical advances include the fitting of variable damping for the first time with steel springs and an electric steering system that is claimed to offer a best-in-class turning circle of 11.8 metres.

The new M-class will come standard with adaptive front airbags, a driver's knee airbag, side curtain/window airbags and front side thorax/pelvis airbags, but rear side airbags will be optional. There is also a pedestrian-friendlier Active Bonnet and seatbelt reminders for all five seats.

A new system dubbed the "active curve system" is designed to keep the M-Class' body tightly controlled when cornering.

Mercedes-Benz says special attention has been paid to using lightweight materials for the guards and front suspension, while the bodywork has been optimised to give class-leading aerodynamics.

The cabin offers plenty of luxury, with a wide range of wood and leather finishes on offer, and advanced safety systems from the S-Class.