Four cylinders and a curb weight of over two tonnes – in the automotive sphere these terms seldom make good bedfellows, but that’s what Mercedes-Benz has done with its entry point to the latest ML-Class range; the ML250 BlueTEC 4Matic. Mercedes claims that it is one of the most eco-friendly and fuel-efficient models in its class, but can this model’s compact engine provide the punch needed to make the most of this sizeable newcomer?
Not to sound obtuse, but yes and no. The 2,1-litre twin-turbo diesel at the heart of this particular model develops a modest 150 kW at 4 200 r/min allied with a brawny torque output of 500 N.m between 1 600 and 1 800 r/min. As such, you do get the initial impression that the engine is fighting against the 2 150 kg curb weight of the vehicle when pulling off the mark. Once you’ve reached cruising speeds, however, the engine does a fine job of propelling the ML and manages to do so in a smooth, refined manner. The 7-speed transmission doesn’t hunt around the ratios and is slick in its operation. To those seeking spirited performance, the aforementioned characteristics may not sit too well but there’s a lot to be said for the economy and emissions figures that this engine produces. Mercedes claims an average fuel consumption figure of just 6,5 L/100 km and CO2 emissions of 165 g/km – that’s in a similar ballpark to many compact hatchbacks on the market – so, if you’re happy to accept more leisurely performance than some of its stablemates you’ll be grinning when it comes to lower CO2 levies and a potential tank range of 1 500 km. This frugal performance is not solely down to the engine, however. A raft of BlueEfficiency technologies such as stop/start, enhanced aerodynamics and a wealth of other friction-reducing and energy-saving touches under the bonnet help realise such savings.
In terms of overall dynamics, the ML continues to serve up a driving experience similar to that of many premium saloons. Inside, Mercedes has dispensed with the previous model’s distinctive cylindrical air vents to present a facia that is more car-like in its execution. In terms of perceived quality, the cabin feels very upmarket and there is plenty of room, both fore and aft. The luggage space has taken a considerable hike up from that of the previous cars 344/1 420 dm3 to 690/2 010 dm3. The steering, although fairly light, is precise and the brakes have a progressive but reassuring feel to them. Comfy, quiet and composed; the latest ML has all the makings of a very relaxing and practical long-distance cruiser.
We sampled an air suspension-equipped model both on- and off-road. This set-up proved pliant and ironed out all but the very worst corrugations on the roads we encountered in Limpopo while keeping body-roll to a minimum. The off-road section, comprising a series of deeply rutted sand sections and a number of sharp gravel ramps, was easily dispatched with little drama thanks to all of that low-end torque, the ability to raise the car on its suspension and an off-road preset that tailored the throttle inputs and torque apportioning via the all-wheel drive system.
Much like the opposing figures mentioned at the head of this write-up, the terms premium SUV and efficient are seldom encountered in proximity to one another. But Mercedes has rather cleverly brought these seemingly incongruous terms together in the ML250 BlueTEC. Performance-wise it may prove a bit too leisurely be the enthusiast’s choice (Mercedes has left that up to the soon-to-be-introduced ML500 and the fire-breathing ML63 AMG) but its ability to provide a commendable mixture of on- and off-road performance with wallet-friendly efficiency could well make it the smart choice in the ML line-up.
Model: ML250 BlueTEC 4Matic
Engine: 2,1-litre twin-turbo diesel
Power: 150 kW
Torque: 500 N.m
Fuel consumption: 6,5 litres/100 km*
CO2: 165 g/km*
Top speed: 210 km/h*
0-100 km: 9,0 secs*
Price: R683 500
Maintenance plan: 6 year/120 000 km
*manufacturer-claimed figures
