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TECH ROAD TEST – NEW MERCEDES-BENZ ML 280 CDI SPORT
Words and photos by Kim Henson
Recently I have been deliberately test-driving a number of modern vehicles built to provide economical motoring in the harsh economic climate of today. So right at the start of this feature, let me say that it would be ridiculous and inappropriate to suggest that ‘go anywhere’ vehicles such as Mercedes-Benz’ highly acclaimed M-Class models are as fuel-efficient as, say, the average supermini. However, all things are relative, and in recent years (as with most manufacturers) Mercedes-Benz engineers have striven to improve economy and emissions levels ‘across the board’ – and that includes the luxurious ML range of sport utility vehicles.
Another often-overlooked fact is that, despite their generally high level of specification in terms of fixtures, fittings and creature comforts for use on normal roads, today’s all wheel drive vehicles are also built specifically to handle rough terrain when required. For many buyers, especially those living in country districts, this is an essential requirement for a vehicle used in situations that may often include muddy or snowy lanes and ‘difficult’ ground conditions, possibly towing a heavy trailer too. The extra grip provided by machines such as the M-Class models is very much safety-related, and not just desirable… In addition, when driving conditions are especially bad, it can also make the difference between successfully completing a journey, or not.
ENHANCEMENTS
The latest generation of M-Class vehicles has been significantly revised, compared with its predecessors, and improvements have been made in a number of key areas, including styling, interior treatment and power trains. The new range includes the luxurious SE and the ‘dynamic’ Sport model lines, plus the range-topping high performance ML 63 AMG version.
The revised engine choices now include three turbo diesels – 190 bhp 2.8 litre (in the 280 CDI), 224 bhp 3.2 litre (320 CDI) or 306 bhp 4.2 litre (420 CDI), plus two petrol motors – 388 bhp 5.0 litre (ML 500) or 510 bhp 6.3 litre (ML 63 AMG).
Small but important ‘tweaks’ to the engine management system have improved fuel consumption and emissions on the SE versions equipped with the 2.8 and 3.2 litre V6 diesels, resulting in ‘Combined’ consumption decreasing from 29.4 to 30.1 miles per gallon, and with CO2 emissions falling from 254 to 246 g/km. These changes are claimed to make the M-Class range one of the most fuel-efficient and cleanest in its market segment.
Regardless of engine type, all M-Class models are fitted with seven speed automatic transmission (‘7G-TRONIC’). In each case, delivering the power to all four wheels is Mercedes-Benz’ permanent ‘4MATIC’ all wheel drive system, designed to provide optimum grip both on and off road. This incorporates a ‘4ETS’ Electronic Traction System.
M-Class drivers also benefit from a recalibrated off-road anti-lock brake system, Downhill Speed Regulation (DSR), and Hill Start Assist technology.
Aluminium double wishbones are employed in the front suspension, with a multi-link system fitted at the rear. Speed-sensitive power-assisted rack and pinion steering is used, and braking is by an all-disc system with ventilated types at the front.
All variants share an athletic-looking five door hatchback body, which has been endowed with a revised grille (larger and located lower on the vehicle; in ‘sterling silver’ with chrome trim on Sport versions), a new front bumper (with a stainless steel simulated under-guard) and projection beam type headlamps.
The rear bumper now incorporates reflector strips, and the tail lamps feature a ‘smoked glass’ appearance. New aluminium alloy road wheels are now used too; 18 inch diameter for the V6 SE model, 19 inch on the V8 SE version and 20 inch for the Sport.
Sport variants have further identifying features, including a second stainless steel simulated under-guard at the rear of the vehicle, aluminium-finish running boards (‘side steps’) with built-in rubber studs, privacy glass, a chrome-plated scratch guard on the sill of the luggage compartment, and rectangular exhaust tailpipes.
As expected from any Mercedes-Benz range, safety features abound, contributing to a Euro NCAP ‘five star’ rating. M-Class models all feature the anticipatory ‘PRE-SAFE’ occupant protection system, and ‘NECK-PRO’ anti-whiplash front head restraints. The M-Class also features a new generation anti-lock braking system (ABS), plus Four-wheel Electronic Traction Control (4ETS), an Electronic Stability Programme (ESP), Trailer Stability Assist and Acceleration Skid Control.
All variants now come as standard with ‘Parkatronic’ front and rear parking sensors, re-shaped front seats (enhanced for comfort and support) incorporating heating and four way electrical lumbar support control, automatically dimming rear view and side mirrors (the side mirrors fold automatically too), rain-sensing screen wipers, and an electrically operated tailgate (‘Easy-Pack’).
A new generation NTG2.5 telematics system is fitted too, with integrated Bluetooth interface and a telephone keypad, plus ‘aux-in’ connectivity.
Further interior revisions include the adoption of new materials plus a revised, multi-function four spoke steering wheel.
ML 280 CDI SPORT
I recently sampled the 280 CDI Sport version, and in the course of a week clocked up approximately 500 miles (all on tarmac), during which my respect for its all-round capabilities continued to grew.
In fact in another example of the model I had already explored to the full the impressive off-road credentials of the M-Class. Quite simply, its rugged construction, high ground clearance (selectable at the touch of a button for off-road driving), excellent axle articulation and sophisticated 4MATIC all wheel drive system ensures that the vehicle keeps moving, regardless of the terrain and ground conditions.
However, I have found that just one of the joys of the M-Class is that despite its solidly good off-road performance, it is also civilised, comfortable and refined for on-road use.
The 2.8 litre V6 engine is smooth-running and quiet (emitting a subdued, pleasant burble that just hints at the unit’s potential), and delivers its considerable performance in a satisfying way. In other words, despite being a substantial vehicle, this ML is fun to drive. Even when accelerating rapidly – and the car does go very well, when required – there is no evidence of the engine having to work hard; it goes about its business in a capable, fuss-free manner. Once at motorway cruising speeds, the car wafts along in near-silence, with the engine barely more than ticking over, at just 2,000 rpm.
I felt that the ML’s cruise control was very easy to operate, and easy to ‘pre-set’ on the approach to sections of road covered by speed limits. The set speed can be varied very rapidly in five mph increments, so, for example, on the approach to a 40 mph limit from a 60 mph section, the speed can be brought down to 40 mph in a series of smooth ‘steps’.
With maximum torque delivery coming in at just 1,400 rpm (and continuing until 2,800 rpm), the vehicle accelerates strongly, even in high gears (when engaged manually) from low speeds. Most owners will probably leave the gearbox in ‘fully automatic’ mode, in which ratio changes are made almost imperceptibly, both up and down. However, the test vehicle featured steering wheel mounted gearchange ‘paddles’ (‘DIRECT SELECT’), enabling the driver to make manual gearchanges when required, and over-riding the auto system. I found that this system worked rapidly and smoothly too.
The 4MATIC all wheel drive system continually feeds power to all four wheels, and certainly on slippery wet roads (for example), levels of traction provided are reassuringly good.
I found that the suspension provided a well-controlled, comfortable ride over large potholes and bumps, while the large (20 inch) wheels and tyres helped to make light of minor road surface imperfections.
Cornering is good for what is a relatively tall vehicle, although a little body roll is evident on twisting roads. Roadholding is excellent.
Passenger accommodation is exceptionally spacious in both the front and rear of the vehicle, and the high seating position affords a good view of the passing scenery. I found that the driving seat was comfortable on long trips, and gave good support.
The interior is well-equipped and storage spaces abound, including long, narrow bins in the front doors (plus shorter ones for rear seat passengers), plus a central ‘holdall’ compartment and two illuminated cup holders. I particularly liked the footwell lamps, helping to light the way into or out of the vehicle, on opening the doors.
The load compartment is large and easy to access; chromed tie-down loops are provided for securing loose items, and a 12 volt socket can be found here too (there’s another similar socket in the rear face of the front console, and this is available to rear seat occupants).
The tailgate can be opened and closed by a button on the key fob (and can be closed by pushing the switch on the trailing edge of the rear door). A strange thing happened to me (twice) in connection with this, however. With the key fob in my pocket, I was walking away from the vehicle and heard a noise behind me. I turned around and to my surprise, found that the tailgate was opening. Evidently a corner of my mobile phone had touched the ‘tailgate’ button on the key fob, and had activated it…
During my time with the ML, the on-board computer showed an average fuel consumption of almost exactly 28 miles per gallon. This included a mixture of in-town and open road, long-distance driving (and was only one mpg short of the official ‘Combined’ figure of 29.4 mpg). I feel that this is good for a large, powerful ‘go anywhere’ vehicle.
THE BOTTOM LINE
The stylish ML feels solidly-engineered and well put together. It is a sophisticated vehicle incorporating many intelligent design aspects, and the overall package is attractive and easy to operate. It is an effective, quiet vehicle for long distance travel, and when required is excellent in off-road situations. It should also be an impressive tow car (although I didn’t try this aspect), with a braked trailer weight capacity of 3,500 kg. (7,717 lb.).
Fuel consumption is commendable in view of the ML’s size and capabilities.
For the SE version as tested, the basic ‘On The Road’ Price is £41,336. M-Class models currently start at £38,889 (for the ML 280 CDI SE) and rise to £75,807 (ML 63 AMG). Prices are higher than for the previous versions, but enhancements in standard-fit equipment levels are said to be worth much more than the additional outlay. A huge range of extra-cost options is available too.
SPECIFICATIONS IN BRIEF
Engine: V6 cylinder, 24 valve, common rail direct injection 2987cc diesel
Top speed: 127 mph
0-62 mph: 9.8 secs
Max. power: 190 bhp @ 4,000 rpm
Max. torque: 440 Nm (328 lb.ft.) @ 1,400-2,800 rpm
‘Urban’ fuel consumption: 23.2 mpg
‘Extra-urban’ fuel consumption: 34.9 mpg
‘Combined’ fuel consumption: 29.4 mpg
CO2 emissions: 254g/km
Theoretical range on a full tank (applying ‘Combined’ mpg figure): Over 610 miles (plus ‘reserve’, over 80 miles)
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