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NEWS
Mercedes-Benz ML-Class to kick in at $81K
All-new four-cylinder turbodiesel ML takes on all comers at $81,400Mercedes-Benz Australia's will seek to substantially increase its ML executive-class SUV volumes with the arrival of an all-new model this autumn. Set to launch in April, the entry-level model of the new ML-Class range is a $81,400 four-cylinder turbodiesel that features added equipment and out-performs its six-cylinder predecessor.
The new ML 250 CDI features Benz's much lauded 2.1-litre direct-injected twin-turbo four-cylinder diesel. Essentially replacing the 150kW/500Nm ML 300 CDI in this current generation, the first-ever four-cylinder ML is rated at the same power and torque levels but is significantly more efficient.
Indeed, Mercedes says the full-size five-seat SUV will return combined fuel consumption of 6.4L/100km – down from 9.2L/100km. Thanks to a 93-litre fuel tank, that calculates out at a theoretical range in excess of 1450km for the 250 CDI.
On paper, the 250 CDI's pricetag is a $4380 saving compared to the outgoing 300 CDI. In practice Mercedes dealers were offering pretty sharp pricing on the outgoing car. As was the case with its B-Class stablemate, Benz slightly underestimated demand for the superseded model. It claims it will run out of ML stock before the new car arrives.
The ML rivals the new B-Class (see separate story) as arguably the company's most important new model this year. SUVs continue to sell strongly with Benz fighting hard with BMW and others for sales in the segment.
The four-cylinder 250 is expected to account for up to half of all ML volume. In 2011 turbodiesels comprise 80 per cent of the company's total 2077 ML registrations.
Benz has added equipment to the new vehicle which also boasts generational improvements to safety and efficiency. Standard across the new ML-Class range will be Benz's latest COMAND sat nav and infotainment system with full Bluetooth telephony and audio streaming capabilities. The new system also includes traffic radio and a reversing camera. Camera and sat nav were optional on the outgoing car.
Wheels are also upsized to 19-inch on the new 250 CDI, though 18-inch alloys with an offroad-friendly full-size spare are offered as a no-cost option.
The new ML 250 CDI will spearhead the new ML range. Mercedes-Benz Australia expects the ML 350 CDI turbodiesel V6 and range-topping ML 63 AMG V8 petrol to hit the market in May. Other V6 and V8 petrol models will arrive in Q3.
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Written byMike Sinclair
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