What's new

Mercedes has introduced a lower powered and less expensive version of the 3.0-litre diesel that powers the ML320 CDI, under the ML280 CDI badge.

Excellent

All the qualities of a Mercedes off-roader with the added advantage of a lower list price. Fuel consumption just above 30mpg (just) too.

Good

It may be the lowest power diesel available in the ML, but it doesn't feel slow. Quite an achievement for a car weighing more than two tonnes.

Average

M-class is still just a five-seater when rivals are increasingly seven-seaters, but then the boot is massive.

Poor

New ML still carries the image of the first generation car - it's seen as a Chelsea tractor by many.

Verdict

Easily the most fleet friendly version of the M-class, sure to be a costs winner due to excellent RVs and low-ish fuel costs.

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