Mercedes-Benz ML250 a fuel fighter

The four-cylinder model opens the door to the third generation of the Mercedes-Benz M Class, and has launched with a focus on its fuel economy.

Priced from the $81,400, the entry-level ML250 four-cylinder diesel uses 30 per cent less fuel than its predecessor and, with a combined fuel use of 6.4l/100km, has a range of more than 1400km.

It is also $4380 less expensive than the model it replaces, the ML 300 V6 CDI. Other models on sale this month are the ML350 diesel at $99,000 and the ML350 V6 petrol at $99,000.

In June the $177,900 ML 63 AMG arrives, to be followed in the September by the $119,900 ML 500.

All models come with more equipment, chassis developments and new handling control systems to enhance safety and driver satisfaction. They are also quieter, stronger and safer, with nine airbags.

Standard features include driver-fatigue warning, an accident prediction system, self-drying brakes, tyre pressure warning, self-parking, a reversing camera and electric front seats. Other standard features include a 175mm multi-function display, satellite navigation and internet, Bluetooth, iPod, USB and an MP3-compatible CD/DVD player.

The new ML 350 V6 diesel has a combined figure of 7.3l/100 km. Both diesels meet the EU6 emission standards due in Europe in 2014 and come with auto stop/start and seven-speed automatic transmissions. The ML 350 petrol uses 23 per cent less fuel, at 8.9l/100km, than its predecessor thanks to high-pressure fuel injection, multi-spark ignition and a new stratified combustion process.

Other fuel-saving tricks include a low drag body, low friction axles, electric steering, low rolling resistance tyres and on-demand control of ancillary components and pumps. Both ML 350 models come with a button to activate an off-road driving mode.

In addition, an optional on/off-road package has a low range transfer case, inter-axle diff lock, underbody protection, up to 285mm of ground clearance, a wading depth of 285mm and six driving modes selected via a rotary control on the centre console.

Another option is the active anti-roll bar system on the front and rear axles to offset body roll when cornering.