New M-Class Benz beats the thirst

The efficient 250 BlueTec will arrive in NZ first, followed by the muscular ML63. Photo / Supplied

Mercedes-Benz is claiming the new entry-level M-Class will be the most fuel-efficient vehicle in the luxury SUV division when it goes on sale in New Zealand on April 2.

The carmaker cites town-and-around fuel use of 6.4 litres/100km (44mpg,)and CO2 emissions of 165g/km for the introductory 250 CDI Bluetec diesel model, thanks to automatic start/stop, better aerodynamics and more efficient electrical systems.

"The new ML 250 Bluetec consumes 25 per cent less fuel than its predecessor and as such will be the most economical vehicle in its segment - including those rivals with hybrid drive," said Ben Giffin, general manager Mercedes-Benz cars NZ.

It uses a 2.2-litre four-cylinder engine making 150kW/500Nm and starts in price at $99,900 - almost $10,000 down on its entry-level predecessor.

It will be the first M-Class model to arrive, followed soon after by the high-performance ML63 and later the ML 350 CDI Bluetec, ML 350 V6 petrol and ML 500 V8 petrol. A hybrid model is expected in some markets. No word on price for the grunt-busting ML63 and its 412kW/700Nm twin-turbo 5.5-litre V8. "We are still talking about price with our colleagues in Germany," said Giffin.

The M-Class line-up picks up styling cues from the carmaker's sedan line-up, including the sculpted door panels, recognisable from the latest CLS, plus a swept-back headlight design and wide chrome grille borrowed from the CL. Although the wheelbase is the same as its predecessor, the new M-Class is longer, wider and lower than before, freeing up more space in the five-seater cabin. There are more electronic aids, too.

"For the first time, the M-Class chassis with steel suspension features selective damping," said Giffin.

Mercedes-Benz says special attention has been paid to using lightweight materials for the mudguards and front suspension, while the bodywork has been optimised to give class-leading aerodynamics. These green tweaks haven't sacrificed any of the M-Class's off-road abilities, says the carmaker.

The newcomer has six different transmission settings for the revised 7G Tronic gearbox, with two dedicated off-road modes.

Selective dampers, active anti-roll bars and locking diffs will also help when the going gets tough, and are available as part of an optional pack.

A new system dubbed "active curve system" keeps the M-Class' body tightly controlled when cornerning.

Inside, the cabin has a wide range of wood and leather finishes on offer, as well as advanced safety systems from the S-Class.