Mercedes-Benz M-Class: new generation released
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Mercedes-Benz ML 250
Mercedes-Benz ML 250
Mercedes-Benz ML 350
Mercedes-Benz ML 350
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20th May, 2012
The new-generation Mercedes-Benz M-Class is now available in Australia.
Nine airbags and a reversing camera are standard. Prices* commence at $81,400*.
An important claim to fame for the new model is the improved energy efficiency. On average the new model range
consumes 25 per cent less fuel than the previous models. One true champion in terms of fuel consumption is the ML 250
BlueTEC 4MATIC, which boasts a combined cycle consumption of just 6.4 l/100 km (168 g CO2/km). Further strengths of the
premium SUV with permanent all-wheel drive include exceptional safety and well-balanced ride comfort as well as excellent
driving dynamics both on and off the road. What's more, the ML features an array of new chassis developments and
innovative dynamic handling control systems which further enhance both driving enjoyment and handling safety. A
characteristic body design and a variable interior with a high wellness factor add to the richness of the driving
experience in the new M-Class.
Dr. Thomas Weber, member of the Board of Management of Daimler AG with responsibility for Group Research and
Mercedes-Benz Cars Development says: "With the M-Class, it's always been a case of combining the comfort and luxury of
a saloon car with the off-road characteristics and the emotiveness of an SUV." The fact that the new M-Class is as
fuel-efficient as the economical saloon cars displaying the Mercedes star makes the all-wheel-drive model even more
desirable. A range of state-of-the-art engines, a class-leading cd figure (drag coefficient) of 0.32 and extensive
BlueEFFICIENCY measures lay the foundations for outstanding energy efficiency.
According to Dr. Joachim Schmidt, Board Member of Mercedes-Benz Cars, Sales & Marketing: "The M-Class is a story of
success. With more than 1.2 million vehicles sold, it is the best-selling SUV in its segment and also enjoys a loyal
customer base. We will be continuing this success with the new M-Class, which will make an important contribution to our
sales growth over the coming years."
A model of success: the M-Class sets new standards in the world of the SUV
BlueTEC diesel units and the new generation of BlueDIRECT petrol engines ensure excellent economy and an outstanding
life cycle assessment of the new M-Class.
As far as the diesel engines are concerned, now available solely as BlueTEC units with SCR emissions technology, the
focus is firmly on 'downsizing':
- In the ML 250 BlueTEC 4MATIC, the 3.0-litre V6 diesel of the previous ML 300 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY 4MATIC model is
replaced by the thrifty 2.1 litre four-cylinder diesel unit already familiar from, for instance, the E-Class. The
combined consumption of 6.4 l/100 km is 30 per cent lower than that of the previous model.
- The ML 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC features an extensively revamped 3.0-litre V6 diesel which offers far better performance
coupled with a substantial reduction in fuel consumption. This version boasts a combined figure of just 7.3 l/100
km.
Thanks to AdBlue® emission control technology both diesel models comfortably meet the EU6 standard slated for the
European introduction in 2014.
The ML 350 4MATIC BlueEFFICIENCY petrol-engine model, on the other hand, delivers a convincing performance thanks to
the technical details of the new BlueDIRECT engine generation. The key here is the third-generation direct petrol
injection system with spray-guided combustion and new piezo injectors that have an injection pressure of 200 bar,
together with multi-spark ignition (MSI) and a new stratified combustion process. In this case, the combined consumption
of 8.9 l/100 km is 23 per cent lower than that of the previous ML 350 4MATIC model. The ML 350 4MATIC BlueEFFICIENCY
meets the requirements of the EU5 standard, currently the strictest standard in force for petrol models.
Long-distance champion: a high level of efficiency ensures a long range
The range calculated for a full tank of fuel is particularly impressive. With a consumption of 6.4 l/100 km, the new
ML 250 BlueTEC with the standard 93-litre tank, can cover up to 1,450 kilometres between refuelling stops.
The excellent fuel economy is underpinned by a comprehensive package of BlueEFFICIENCY measures as well as by this
state-of-the-art engineering. In addition to the ECO start/stop function that comes as standard with BlueTEC, these
measures include the new seven-speed 7G/TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission with a new fuel-economy converter,
friction-optimised bearings and a transmission oil thermal management system. Low-friction axle drives, electric
steering, the optimised belt drive with decoupler, the on-demand control of all ancillary components and pumps, and tyres
with low rolling resistance also play their part in reducing fuel consumption. What's more, intelligent lightweight
design has stopped the weight from spiralling upwards.
The new M-Class (ML 250 BlueTEC) has a drag coefficient, or cd figure, of 0.32. Intensive simulations undertaken with
the digital prototype, along with final touches added in the wind tunnel, ensure a perfect flow of air around the
vehicle. The key factor determining the low wind resistance is the aerodynamic efficiency of the basic body shell,
including the optimised design of the front bumper, of the A-pillars and of the roof spoiler, plus numerous other
detailed improvements.
The result: a high level of comfort and outstanding driving dynamics on and off the road
Even the standard version of the new M-Class offers a high level of comfort, dynamic on-road handling and outstanding
off-road capabilities. For the first time, the M-Class chassis with steel suspension features selective damping. The
driver is assisted by electric steering, which ensures the optimum level of steering assistance for the current driving
situation. In addition to this, the SUV impresses with the smallest turning circle in its market segment.
For driving off the beaten track, the ML 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC and ML 350 4MATIC BlueEFFICIENCY models are equipped with
extensive off-road features as standard, including 4MATIC permanent all-wheel drive, 4ETS electronic traction control and
an off-road button which activates a special off-road driving mode. Furthermore, the start-off assist system makes hill
starts easier, while the Downhill Speed Regulation (DSR) automatically keeps the M-Class at the speed set using the
cruise control stalk.
The optional ON&OFFROAD package for the new M-Class has six driving modes for optimising driving dynamics and handling
safety, as the optimum drive system control is provided for an extremely wide range of on-road and off-road operating
conditions. The driver can select from one automatic mode, two special off-road modes and three on-road modes using a
rotary control in the centre console. In terms of "hardware", the ON&OFFROAD package comprises an underguard, a two-stage
transfer case with reduction gear, an inter-axle differential lock and enhanced AIRMATIC functionality that allows a
maximum ground clearance of 285 millimetres as well as a fording depth of 600 millimetres.
Active roll stabilisation in the form of the ACTIVE CURVE SYSTEM can be optionally combined with both the AIRMATIC air
suspension with Adaptive Damping System (ADS) and the ON&OFFROAD package. This system uses active anti-roll bars on the
front and rear axles and compensates for the roll angle of the body through bends, increasing agility and driving
pleasure in the process. The system has the additional effect of increasing handing stability and therefore safety,
particularly at higher speeds. Further benefits of the ACTIVE CURVE SYSTEM include superb ride comfort both when
cornering and driving in a straight line, together with enhanced off-road abilities.
Gently does it: attention to detail ensures comfort
The new M-Class promises relaxed and, therefore, safe driving in all possible conditions. By paying close attention to
detail every step of the way, the development engineers in the Mercedes Technology Centre have significantly improved
what they call the NVH comfort level (Noise, Vibration, Harshness). This is an important factor contributing to the
general sense of wellbeing on board, whilst also playing its part in driver-fitness safety, especially on long journeys.
The basis for the high level of NVH comfort is provided by the very rigid bodyshell of the M-Class. Further improvements
have also been made to the drive system and chassis. This is all topped off by aero-acoustic refinements and the
intelligent use of new-style insulation.
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Well thought-out: safety at its best
In line with the Mercedes-Benz brand philosophy, the new M-Class represents the embodiment of the Mercedes-Benz
holistic safety concept of Real Life Safety, which is derived primarily from what happens in a real accident situation.
The extremely robust occupant compartment of the M-Class, together with the front and rear deformation zones, forms an
effective basis for the occupant protection system. Nine airbags, activated on demand in accordance with the accident
type and accident severity, can reduce the loads exerted on the occupants. In addition to active safety systems such as
the standard-fit Brake Assist (BAS) or BAS PLUS (optional ML 250 BT), which can help to prevent an accident or reduce
the severity of an accident, the new M-Class features further enhanced passive-safety measures to help protect
pedestrians, including an Active Bonnet as standard.
Both active safety and driver-fitness safety in the new M-Class are further improved by assistance systems that will
already be familiar, primarily from the S- and E-Class. The standard equipment package includes the drowsiness detection
system ATTENTION ASSIST, the anticipatory safety system PRE-SAFE® and a tyre pressure loss warning system, as well as
adaptive brake lights and Brake Assist (BAS). Active assistance systems such as Active Lane Keeping Assist and Active
Blind Spot Assist are standard on all models except ML 250 BT.
Impressive credentials: the design
The new generation is instantly recognisable as an M-Class by its characteristic body design with the hallmark
C-pillar shape. It combines high levels of design, appeal and ease of use to create a powerful presence. The front of the
vehicle is dominated by the powerfully self-confident design of the radiator grille with its centrally positioned
Mercedes star, giving it that typical M-Class look. Seen from the side, the elongated lines give formal emphasis to the
onroad credentials of this vehicle, whose compact proportions are defined by a large wheelbase and short overhangs. The
C-pillar that is so characteristic of this model series takes its cue from earlier generations of the M-Class and
differentiates it very clearly in stylistic terms from its competitors. At the same time, the way the roof line slopes
down to the rear underlines the sporty appeal of the new M-Class. No pillar is visible in the transition from the rear
side window through to the rear windscreen. This, together with the similarly wraparound effect of the two-part rear
light unit with LED fibre-optic technology, and the lowered roof with its large roof spoiler, add up to an overall
harmonious design. The rear bumper, which features an integrated chrome-effect load sill guard in a new "wing design",
defines the characteristic appearance of the SUV's rear end. The available wheels range from 18-inch through to 20-inch
with an elegant, high-quality appeal. Optionally 21-inch AMG wheels can be fitted to emphasise the sporty look of the
new M-Class.
Upgrade as standard: interior with a first-class ambience
The interior design concept clearly combines an authentic SUV experience with a sense of wellbeing that is usually the
reserve of top-class Mercedes-Benz saloons. While an expressive dome shape embodies the power of an SUV, the gently
sloping contours of the dashboard in the front passenger area afford an outstanding sense of space, thereby highlighting
the vehicle's suitability for long journeys. The spacious, bright interior offers substantially more elbow room than its
predecessor (an extra 34 millimetres in the front and an extra 25 millimetres in the rear), thus enhancing spaciousness.
Eye-catching features on the dashboard include a large trim element that matches the trim used for the doors and,
therefore, provides a harmonious wrap-around effect. The seats in the new M-Class have been designed to offer high
long-distance comfort and optimum lateral support. All of the key settings can be adjusted electrically. New features
include rear seat backrests adjustable for angle and the through-loading feature via the armrest for transporting skis.
Folding both backrests as well as the seat cushions forward provides a level load compartment with a capacity of 2,010
litres up to the roof lining.
The new M-Class comes as standard with the COMAND Online multimedia system with a high-resolution 17.8 cm colour
display provides internet access in the M-Class for the first time. Customers can either browse freely when the vehicle
is at a standstill or use a Mercedes-Benz App with pages that load extremely quickly and are also easy to use when the
vehicle is on the move. Also standard for all M-Class models is, importantly, a reversing camera.
Manufacturer's List Prices* for the new Mercedes-Benz M-Class
| Model |
Fuel |
Engine |
Transmission |
MLP* |
| ML 250 BlueTEC |
diesel |
2,143 cc, 4-cylinder,
150 kW, 500 Nm |
7-speed Automatic
Permanent all-wheel drive |
$81,400* |
| ML 350 BlueTEC |
diesel |
2,987 cc, 6-cylinder,
190 kW, 620 Nm |
7-speed Automatic
Permanent all-wheel drive |
$99,900* |
ML 350
BlueEFFICIENCY |
petrol (95RON) |
3,498 cc, 6-cylinder,
225 kW, 370 Nm |
7-speed Automatic
Permanent all-wheel drive |
$99,900* |
NOTE: * Manufacturer's List Price (MLP) excludes dealer delivery fees and the numerous statutory charges
(commonly known as on-road costs) and options. Additionally, please note that all prices, fees and charges are
subject to change without notice, as are the specifications.
Mercedes-Benz M-Class Technical data
(E&OE)
Mercedes-Benz ML 250 BlueTEC 4MATIC
Engine
No. of cylinders/arrangement 4 in-line, 4 valves per cylinder
Displacement cc: 2,143
Bore x stroke mm: 83.0 x 99.0
Rated output kW: 150 at 4,200 rpm
Rated torque Nm: 500 at 1,600–1,800 rpm
Compression ratio: 16.2:1
Mixture formation: Direct high-pressure injection, common-rail technology, two-stage turbocharging, EDC
Emission control/rating: DPF, SCR with AdBlue© injection, EU6
Power transmission
Transmission: 7G-TRONIC PLUS electronically controlled seven-speed automatic transmission with torque converter lock-up,
twin-turbine damper with centrifugal pendulum, DIRECT SELECT gearshift, ECO start/stop
Drive system: 4MATIC permanent all-wheel drive, ASR, ESP®, 4ETS, E/S/M drive mode switch, optional: ON&OFFROAD
package with two-speed transfer case, multi-plate centre differential lock (up to 100 %) and six on and off-road driving
modes for specific applications
Torque distribution front/rear: 50:50
Chassis
Front axle: Double-wishbone suspension, anti-dive control, coil springs, torsion-bar stabiliser, SDC gas-pressure shock
absorbers
Rear axle: Multi-link suspension, anti-squat and anti-dive control, coil springs, torsion-bar stabiliser, SDC
gas-pressure shock absorbers
Optional suspension: AIRMATIC air suspension with self-levelling and Adaptive Damping System (ADS)
Braking system: Hydraulic dual-circuit braking system with vacuum booster, stepped master brake cylinder, internally
ventilated front/solid rear disc brakes, electric parking brake, ABS, BAS, option of BAS PLUS and/or PRESAFE© Brake
Steering: Electric steering
Wheels: 8.5J x 19
Tyres: 255/50 R 19
Dimensions and weights: when equipped with standard suspension and wheels
Wheelbase mm: 2,915
Track width - front/rear mm: 1,653/1,667
Overall length mm: 4,804
Overall width mm: 1,926
Overall height - min/max mm: 1,788 (standard); 1,758/1,818 (AIRMATIC ADS); 1,758/1,848
(ON&OFF ROAD package)
Overhang - front/rear mm: 880/1,009
Ground clearance mm: 191 (standard); 255 (AIRMATIC ADS); 285 (ON&OFF
ROAD package)
Angle of approach degrees °: 26 (standard); 30 (AIRMATIC ADS); 31 (ON&OFF ROAD
package)
Angle of departure degrees °: 25 (standard); 28 (AIRMATIC ADS); 29 (ON&OFF ROAD
package)
Breakover angle degrees °: 17 (standard); 20 (AIRMATIC ADS); 22 (ON&OFF ROAD
package)
Tilt angle degrees °: 35 (standard); 35 (AIRMATIC ADS); 35 (ON&OFF ROAD
package)
Fording depth mm: 500 (standard); 500 (AIRMATIC ADS); 600 (ON&OFF ROAD
package)
Slope climbing ability %: 80 (standard); 80 (AIRMATIC ADS); 100 (ON&OFF ROAD
package)
Boot capacity litres: 690 (back seat upright)/2,010 (back seat collapsed)
Kerb weight acc. to DIN (EC Directive) kg: 2,150
Payload acc. to DIN (EC Directive) kg: 800
Permissible GVW kg: 2,950
Towing capacity
unbraked kg: 750
braked kg: 3,000
Fuel tank capacity litres: 93
Performance
Acceleration 0–100 km/h seconds: 9.0
Top speed km/h: 210
Fuel consumption and emissions (Combined Cycle)
(in accordance with 1992/21/EC, standard equipment including driver (68 kg), luggage (7 kg) and fuel tank 90%
full)
Consumption litres/100 km: 6.4
CO2 Emissions grammes/100 km: 168
Mercedes-Benz ML 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC
Engine
Number of cylinders/arrangement: 6/V (4 valves per cylinder)
Displacement cc: 2,987
Bore x stroke mm: 83.0 x 92.0
Rated output kW: 190 at 3,600 rpm
Rated torque Nm: 620 at 1,600–2,400 rpm
Compression ratio: 15.5:1
Mixture formation: Direct high-pressure injection, common-rail
technology, VNT turbocharger. EDC
Emission control/rating: DPF, SCR with AdBlue© injection, EU6
Power transmission
Transmission 7G-TRONIC PLUS electronically controlled seven-speed automatic transmission with torque converter
lock-up, twin-turbine damper with centrifugal pendulum and DIRECT SELECT gearshift, ECO start/stop
Drive system: 4MATIC permanent all-wheel drive, ASR, ESP®, 4ETS, off-road driving mode, optional: ON&OFFROAD package
with two-speed transfer case, multi-plate centre differential lock (up to 100%) and six on and off road driving modes for
specific applications
Torque distribution, front/rear axle: 50/50
Chassis
Front axle: Double-wishbone suspension, anti-dive control, coil springs, torsion-bar stabiliser, SDC gas-pressure
shock absorbers
Rear axle: Multi-link suspension, anti-squat and anti-dive control, coil springs, torsion-bar stabiliser, SDC
gas-pressure shock absorbers
Front and rear axle optionally available with ACTIVE CURVE SYSTEM for active roll stabilisation
Optional suspension: AIRMATIC air suspension with self-levelling and Adaptive Damping System (ADS)
Braking system Hydraulic dual-circuit braking system with vacuum booster, stepped master brake cylinder, internally
ventilated front/solid rear disc brakes, electric parking brake, ABS, BAS, option of BAS PLUS and/or PRESAFE© Brake
Steering: Electric steering
Wheels: 9J x 20
Tyres: 265/45 R 20
Dimensions and weights (when equipped with standard suspension and wheels)
Wheelbase mm: 2,915
Track width, front/rear mm: 1,648/1,663
Overall length mm: 4,804
Overall width mm: 1,926
Overall height mm: 1,796 (standard); 1,758/1,818 (AIRMATIC ADS); 1,758/1,848
(ON&OFF ROAD package)
Overhang, front/rear mm: 880/1,009
Ground clearance mm: 202 (standard); 255 (AIRMATIC ADS); 285 (ON&OFF ROAD
package)
Angle of approach degrees °: 26 (standard); 30 (AIRMATIC ADS); 31 (ON&OFF ROAD
package)
Angle of departure degrees °: 25 (standard); 28 (AIRMATIC ADS); 29 (ON&OFF ROAD
package)
Breakover angle degrees °: 17 (standard); 20 (AIRMATIC ADS); 22 (ON&OFF ROAD
package)
Tilt angle degrees °: 35 (standard); 35 (AIRMATIC ADS); 35 (ON&OFF ROAD
package)
Fording depth mm: 500 (standard); 500 (AIRMATIC ADS); 600 (ON&OFF ROAD
package)
Slope climbing ability %: 80 (standard); 80 (AIRMATIC ADS); 100 (ON&OFF ROAD
package)
Boot capacity litres: 690 (back seat upright)/2,010 (back seat collapsed)
Kerb weight acc. to DIN (EC Directive) kg: 2,175
Payload acc. to DIN (EC Directive) kg: 775
Permissible GVW kg: 2,950
Towing capacity
unbraked kg: 750
braked kg: 3,265
Fuel tank capacity litres: 93
Performance
Acceleration 0–100 km/h seconds: 7.4
Top speed km/h: 210
Fuel consumption and emissions (Combined Cycle)
(in accordance with 1992/21/EC, standard equipment including driver (68 kg), luggage (7 kg) and fuel tank 90%
full
Consumption litres/100 km: 7.3
CO2 Emissions grammes/100 km: 192
Mercedes-Benz ML 350 4MATIC BlueEFFICIENCY
Engine
Nunmber of cylinders/arrangement: 6/V (4 valves per cylinder)
Displacement cc: 3,498
Bore x stroke mm: 92.9 x 86.0
Rated output kW: 225 at 6,500 rpm
Rated torque Nm 370 at 3,500–5,250 rpm
Compression ratio: 12.2:1
Microprocessor-controlled, spray-guided direct petrol injection, stratified operation
Ignition: Multi-spark ignition (MSI)
Emission control/rating: 3-way cat. converter, DeNOx cat. converter, EGR, EU5
Power transmission
Transmission: 7G-TRONIC PLUS electronically controlled seven-speed automatic transmission with torque converter
lock-up, twin-turbine damper and DIRECT SELECT gearshift, ECO start/stop
Drive system: 4MATIC permanent all-wheel drive, ASR, ESP®, 4ETS, off-road driving mode, optional: ON&OFFROAD package
with two-speed transfer case, multi-plate centre differential lock (up to 100%) and six on and off road driving modes for
specific applications
Torque distribution front/rear axle: 50/50
Chassis
Front axle: Double-wishbone suspension, anti-dive control, coil springs, torsion-bar stabiliser, SDC gas-pressure
shock absorbers
Rear axle: Multi-link suspension, anti-squat and anti-dive control, coil springs, torsion-bar stabiliser, SDC
gas-pressure shock absorbers
Front and rear axle optionally available with ACTIVE CURVE SYSTEM for active roll stabilisation
Optional suspension:
AIRMATIC air suspension with self-levelling and Adaptive Damping System (ADS)
Braking system Hydraulic dual-circuit braking system with vacuum
booster, stepped master brake cylinder, internally
ventilated front/solid rear disc brakes, electric parking
brake, ABS, BAS, option of BAS PLUS and/or PRESAFE© Brake
Steering Electric: steering
Wheels: 9J x 20
Tyres: 265/45 R 20
Dimensions and weights (when equipped with standard suspension)
Wheelbase mm: 2,915
Track width, front/rear mm: 1,642/1,657
Overall length mm: 4,804
Overall width mm: 1,926
Overall height mm: 1,796 (standard); 1,758/1,818 (AIRMATIC ADS);
1,758/1,848(ON&OFF ROAD package)
Overhang, front/rear mm: 880/1,009
Ground clearance mm: 202 (standard); 255 (AIRMATIC ADS); 285(ON&OFF ROAD
package)
Angle of approach degrees °: 26 (standard); 30 (AIRMATIC ADS); 31(ON&OFF ROAD
package)
Angle of departure degrees °: 25 (standard); 28 (AIRMATIC ADS); 29(ON&OFF ROAD
package)
Breakover angle degrees °: 17 (standard); 20 (AIRMATIC ADS); 22(ON&OFF ROAD
package)
Tilt angle degrees °: 35 (standard); 35 (AIRMATIC ADS); 35(ON&OFF ROAD
package)
Fording depth mm: 500 (standard); 500 (AIRMATIC ADS); 600(ON&OFF ROAD
package)
Slope climbing ability %: 80 (standard); 80 (AIRMATIC ADS); 100(ON&OFF ROAD
package)
Boot capacity litres: 690 (back seat upright)/2,010 (back seat collapsed)
Kerb weight acc. to DIN (EC Directive) kg: 2,130
Payload acc. to DIN (EC Directive) kg: 770
Permissible GVW kg: 2,900
Towing capacity
unbraked kg: 750
braked kg: 3,265
Fuel tank capacity litres: 93
Performance
Acceleration 0–100 km/h seconds: 7.6
Top speed: 210 km/h
Fuel consumption and emissions (Combined Cycle)
(in accordance with 1992/21/EC, standard equipment including driver (68 kg), luggage (7 kg) and fuel tank 90%
full
Consumption litres/100 km: 8.9
CO2 Emissions grammes/100 km: 208
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