Mercedes ML350 CDI 4MATIC
Mercedes ML350 CDI 4MATIC
What is it?
A MUCH more credible rival to the BMW X5. Third generation Mercedes M-Class gets an all-new 4×4 platform, an aerodynamic body and much more efficient engines. Cabin quality also takes a step up as does space and versatility. Launched in April 2012, it’ll be available in 3.5-litre diesel V6 ML350 CDI BlueEfficiency form tested here, as well as a somewhat less business friendly V8 ML63 AMG. Prices should start at around £45,000.
What’s hot?
- The huge leap in efficiency made by the revised 3.5-litre diesel…
- …which now does 41.5mpg (up from 32.5mpg)
- And emits 179g/km (down from 230g/km)
- That’s even more efficient than an X5 30d (38.2mpg and 195g/km)
- As well as lower running costs it’s also better to drive than before…
- …with precise steering, great body control and a comfy ride
- Stop-start system is so smooth you’ll barely notice it too
- Revised diesel has 255bhp (up 27bhp) and is fast: 0-62mph in 7.4secs
- Huge 620Nm torque, slick 7-speed auto mean lots of overtaking urge
- It’s super hushed: that aerodynamic body really suppresses wind noise
- Cabin uses great big slabs of quality wood and lots of leather
- More leg and knee space in the back and a bigger boot than before too
- You can order an off-road pack with hill descent control, lockable diffs…
- …and Active Curve Control which features active anti-roll bars
- Residuals should be strong
What’s not?
- Exterior looks a little apologetic; more raised estate car than SUV
- While there’s more space, there’s no proper middle seat in the back
- A BMW X5 is still more agile and sporty to drive
- A similarly priced Land Rover Discovery 4 has seven seats as standard…
- …and is better off-road, if that is important to you
What you need to Know?
| P11D Value: | TBA |
| Monthly Rental*: | n/a |
| Tax Band when posted: | n/a |
| Monthly BiK: | n/a |
| Engine: | 3.0 litre 6-cyl turbo diesel |
| CO2 Emissions: | 179g/km |
| Power/torque: | 258hp/620Nm |
| Economy: | 41.5mpg |
Monthly contract hire (CH) and personal contract hire (PCH) rentals generated by Concept Vehicle Leasing. Based on a 36 month lease at 10,000 miles a year, 3+35 payments.
Business Car Manager Road Test Rating
The first M-Class was agricultural, the second expensive to run thanks to awful CO2 emissions. This third generation ML is one of the best Mercedes yet. It’s incredibly efficient, yet fast and good to drive. It has plenty of off-road ability and does all the things a luxurious Mercedes should – transport you in comfort over great distances in near silence.
It’s not as sporty as a BMW X5 but the ML is still really good to drive and considerably more relaxing. We have no hesitation in recommending the ML 350 CDI, but Mercedes is currently mulling a 2.1-litre four-cylinder diesel ML 250 CDI which should do 50mpg and emit 150g/km of CO2 while almost being as fast as the V6 model. We have only one message to Mercedes UK – bring it here.
