New Mercedes ML-Class revealed

Mercedes’ all-new ML-Class will be the most fuel efficient large SUV when it launches here in 2012.

This third-gen model, codenamed W166, will offer a 2.1-litre twin-turbo diesel rated at just 5.0L/100km, despite healthy 500Nm/150kW outputs. A seven-speed automatic transmission is standard, and teams with stop-start and brake energy regeneration tech to help the ML250 Bluetec variant achieve the class-leading fuel figure.

Other ML models set to launch include a 3.0-litre V6 ML350 Bluetec and 5.5-litre twin-turbo V8 ML63 AMG (the latter understandably without a ‘Bluetec’ tag). Later next year a diesel-electric ML300 Hybrid will debut, teaming the ML250’s turbo-diesel with a 15kW electric motor.

While the ML’s exterior and interior are all-new – with a CL-style wide-mouthed front grille and deeper, more prominent side character creases – it retains the basic proportion of the current generation. The Merc SUV’s platform is shared with the new-gen Jeep Grand Cherokee, however the ML remains a five-seat-only proposition.