Mercedes-Benz claims to have slashed fuel consumption on the third generation of its M-Class SUV range by 25% compared to the current models.

The brand claims the ML 250 Bluetec 4matic achieves 47.0mpg with CO2 emissions of 158g/km.

The ML includes 4matic permanent all-wheel drive and new developments to the chassis and driving dynamics systems, which the brand says improves both on and off-road performance.

Bluetec diesel engines and new generation Bluedirect petrol units power the new M-Class line-up.

Three models will be available when the new M-Class goes on sale in the spring of 2012. Aside from the ML 250, the ML 350 Bluetec 4matic returns a claimed 41.5mpg with CO2 emissions of 179g/km.

The petrol-engined ML 350 4matic Blue efficiency has claimed average consumption of 33.2mpg and CO2 emissions of 199g/km.

Mercedes has not yet confirmed UK pricing and specification.

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