Mercedes M-Class

On paper the efficient, entry-level M-Class has a lot to recommend it, while its upmarket image is unrivalled. It’s also hugely practical and well equipped. However, its four-cylinder turbodiesel engine is a disappointingly gruff performer and the ride is uncomfortable.

The new Mercedes M-Class hasn’t had the easiest start in life. When we tested the range-topping ML 350 CDI, it finished in a distant third place behind the Land Rover Discovery 4 and Porsche Cayenne. As a result, there’s a lot resting on this entrylevel ML 250 BlueTEC. Can it succeed where its more expensive brother failed?

On paper, it certainly challenges the strong eco-friendly credentials of the hybrid Lexus. Thanks to its efficient four-cylinder diesel, the Mercedes promises to match the RX with 44.8mpg fuel economy, while CO2 emissions are just 20g/km higher, at 165g/km.

Better still, apart from its badging, the newcomer is indistinguishable from the pricier V6 version. That means you get an imposing stance and straight-edged styling, plus eye-catching 19-inch AMG alloys. And when it comes to upmarket premium appeal, the three-pointed star badge beats its rivals hands down.

Inside, the M-Class feels just like any other Mercedes. There’s the same upright dash, logical layout and quirky single stalk for the indicators, main beam and wipers. The build quality is top notch, while the column-mounted gearshift is simple and the high-set driving position perfect. It’s not as well equipped as the RX, but you get sat-nav, Bluetooth and Artico fake leather trim.

Yet while the ML 250 isn’t as lavishly appointed as the Lexus, it is more practical. There’s a huge amount of space for occupants, plus the vast boot will swallow 690 litres of luggage. Fold the split/fold rear bench flat and the capacity increases to a van-like 2,010 litres. Unfortunately, the commercial vehicle comparisons also extend to the 2.1-litre four-cylinder diesel’s gruff soundtrack.

Still, with 500Nm of torque, the M-Class turned in surprisingly strong times at the test track. It sprinted from 0-60mph in 8.7 seconds – only a second slower than the more powerful Lexus. Yet on the road it needs to be worked hard to keep up with its rivals here, despite smooth and prompt shifts from the seven-speed automatic gearbox.

Despite bulky dimensions, the Mercedes feels reasonably agile and grippy through a series of corners. The steering isn’t as direct as in the Lexus or VW, but the ML 250 suffers from less body roll. The pay-off for this poise is a firm and crashy ride around town, while at higher speeds, the car can float over big bumps.

However, a proper four-wheel-drive system and standard hill descent control means it has the RX beaten off-road. Without options, the Mercedes costs £6,615 less than the RX, at £45,388. It also has strong residuals and returned a best-on-test 33.0mpg. Yet it’s a more expensive company car than the Lexus, while to get near the RX’s spec you’ll need to spend at least £4,000. Factor in a coarse engine and poor ride, and the M-Class faces an uphill struggle.