The M-Class sets new standards in the world of the SUV

The third generation of the M-Class incorporates the best qualities from a variety of vehicle classes. It is comfortable and luxurious like a saloon, and at the same time emotionally-appealing and highly capable off the road like an SUV. On top

of this, the all-wheel drive vehicle is particularly economical. The outstanding energy efficiency comes courtesy of its state-of-the-art engine range, comprehensive BlueEFFICIENCY measures as well as best-in-class aerodynamics.

A particular characteristic of the new M-Class is somewhat surprising for a spacious off-road vehicle: low fuel consumption. On average the new models consume 25 percent less fuel than their predecessors. One true champion in terms of fuel consumption is the ML 250 BlueTEC 4MATIC fitted with the economical four-cylinder engine, familiar from the S-Class, which gets by on just 6.0 l/100 km and achieves a range of up to 1500 km on just a single tank of fuel.

Thanks to emission control with SCR technology, this model, like the ML 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC, meets the EU6 standard due to be introduced from 2014.

The ML 350 4MATIC BlueEFFICIENCY petrol model, meanwhile, delivers a convincing performance with the new BlueDIRECT direct petrol injection, achieving a low consumption of 8.5 l/100 km while meeting the requirements of the EU5 emissions standard, currently the strictest in force for petrol models. Besides the state-of-the-art engine technology, the economy of the vehicle is underpinned by a comprehensive package of BlueEFFICIENCY measures.

In addition to the ECO start/stop function that comes as standard, these measures include the new seven-speed 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission, electric steering and tyres with low rolling resistance. The intelligent lightweight design and aerodynamics boasting the best drag coefficient in this class as a result of wind tunnel testing, not only contribute to the vehicle's outstanding life cycle assessment, but also improve its handling characteristics – both 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 electric steering ensures the optimum level of steering assistance for the current driving situation. In addition, the SUV impresses with the smallest turning circle in its market segment. For driving off the beaten track, an extensive array of off-road features is available as standard. These include 4MATIC permanent all-wheel drive, 4ETS electronic traction control and a special off-road transmission mode.The Hill-Start assist supports the driver when moving off on hills, while the vehicle automatically maintains the speed which is set using the cruise control lever.

The optional ON&OFFROAD package for the new M-Class has six driving modes for optimising driving dynamics and handling safety in an extremely wide range of on-road and off-road conditions.

As an option, both the AIRMATIC air suspension with Adaptive Damping System (ADS) and the ON&OFFROAD package can be combined with active roll stabilisation in the form of the ACTIVE CURVE SYSTEM.

With its sense of wellbeing in the spacious interior, the new generation of the M-Class promises a relaxed driving experience in all possible conditions. At the same time, driver and passengers can also feel safe thanks to assistance systems in the new M-Class which are already familiar from

the S and E-Class. The standard equipment package includes the drowsiness detection system ATTENTION ASSIST, the anticipatory safety system PRE-SAFE® and also Brake Assist (BAS).

As an option, active assistance systems such as Active Lane Keeping Assist, Active Blind Spot Assist or BAS PLUS can help to prevent an accident or reduce the severity of its consequences. If an accident should occur, however, up to nine airbags, activated as necessary depending on the type of accident, help considerably in reducing the loads exerted on the occupants.

Besides active safety, passive safety has also been further enhanced in the M-Class: the extremely robust passenger compartment forms an effective basis for the occupant protection system. But the SUV also demonstrates a sense of responsibility when it comes to pedestrians too, with the active bonnet fitted as standard, among other measures. The new generation of the M-Class has the right answer for every situation and sets new standards in the world of the SUV.