The new Mercedes M-Class," tough enough to take the rough with the smooth"

The old Mercedes ML was beginning to look dated compared to the VW Touareg and Porsche Cayenne. Will the new Mercedes M- Class bring the 4x4 crown back to Mercedes.

The M-Class replaces a 4x4 which was very popular, especially in the US where most were built. Critics noted the ML for its cheap feeling (by Mercedes standards) interior, poor build quality and huge reliability issues. The old M-Class interior always felt plasticky and built down to a price, even after the range's mid-life facelift, but the new one is much plusher with fully padded surfaces and an air of substance. Outside, the style is an assertive update of the original look, which always was attractive. There are some new V6 engines, too - the petrol 3.5 introduced in the SLK with 272bhp for the ML350, and two versions of Mercedes's 3.0-litre turbodiesel with 190 and 224bhp for the ML280 CDI (not likely to be offered in the UK) and ML320 CDI. The top ML500 retains the previous 5.0-litre V8, delivering 306bhp. An AMG version arrives later this year packing a massive 6.3-litre 504bhp engine and a longer-wheelbase (MLL?) derivative with seven seats is planned soon after.

The major sticking point though is the price. Mercedes entry level M- Class priced from £36170 looks expensive when Landrovers Dicovery range will save you a massive £9175 for there entry level 4x4. But has it got the off road capabilty of the Landrover ? Well if you cough up an extra £1200 for the Off-Road Pro pack which includes a low-range transmission setting, lockable centre and rear differentials and the ability to raise the air suspension, though itself an option for another £1200 or so. The M-Class also has Mercedes Benz's version of a Land Rover-type Hill Descent Control, they call it Downhill Speed Regulation.

Quality and Reliability: There's a huge quality improvement here. The new M-Class is designed and built to meet European,  quality standards. With padded surfaces down to floor level, fine fit and finish and the air of substance you'd expect from a Benz, especially an off-road one. Switches and controls operate with a damped, firm action, the only slight doubt is something most owners will never encounter, on extreme off-road terrain the body creaks a little. As for reliability this is a complex car with ample scope for electronic gremlins. Unfortunately, some recent Mercedes Benz's have proved problematic here, so we'll have to wait for the M-Class to prove itself reliable. Durability is enhanced by galvanised body panels, a full-length plastic undertray and scratch-resistant 'nanoparticle' paint, just like body armour for fending off the Tesco carpark idiots.

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