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Mercedes-Benz aimed to produce a rival to the Range Rover with its M-class vehicle. It does not match the Range Rover in off-road performance, but the company discovered that less than 5% of off-road vehicles are used off-road. However, the M-class is almost 9,000 pounds sterling cheaper than the most basic Range Rover, and it performs better on the road. The M-class, despite its two-tonne weight, feels like a car to the driver. It is faster than all its rivals, the suspension gives a smooth ride, the steering is precise, and the performance of the V6 engine and gearbox is smooth and refined.

The estimated 32,000 pound sterling Mercedes-Benz ML320 sport utility vehicle provides an even balance between off-road driving and a practical estate car, making it the preferred choice in comparison to the 42,860 pounds sterling Toyota Land Cruiser and the 40,990 pounds sterling Range Rover 4.0 SE. The ML320 has a top speed of 112 mph and can reach 0-60 in 9.7 seconds. The interior is spacious but lacks standard specifications which can be ordered separately.

The 31,000 pound sterling Mercedes ML320 automobile provides a car-like drive in a 4X4 package, offering spacious accommodation which is very versatile. The ML320 achieves a top speed of 112 mph and can reach 0-60 mph in 9 seconds. The interior has been well designed, with plenty of safety features and comfort extras. Standard equipment includes front and side airbags, electric windows and cruise control. The ML320 will be available in the UK in August 1998.

Sport-utility vehicles (SUVs) continue to dominate sales in the automotive industry. Its durability, roominess and safety features as well as its rugged image seem to be the top attractions for most Americans. Among the new SUVs on the market are the Mercedes-Benz ML 320 with its electronic traction system and front and rear suspension, the Oldsmobile Bravada which is capable of easy switch from rear-wheel to all-wheel drive. Others are the GMC Jimmy and Sonoma which boast of its Pass Lock theft-deterrent system., New luxury sport-utilities add class, plus innovative technology, to the 1998 light-truck lineup. Despite the fact that drivers seldom take these vehicles off-road (off-highway is more likely), the sport-utility craze [...]

The Mercedes ML320 sport utility vehicle is so competitively priced it will challenge rival automobile manufacturer Range Rover's top position in sport utility sales. The vehicle has a 3.2-litre V6 engine, a 5-speed automatic gearbox and can accelerate from zero to sixty miles per hour in 9.0 seconds. It is comfortable, well-built and easy to drive on and off the road. It is priced at 28,000 pounds sterling.

The new Mercedes-Benz ML430 is available from Spring 1999 at an estimated cost of 39,000 pounds sterling. The ML430 has a top speed of 112 miles per hour and can accelerate from 0-60 in 8.0 seconds. It has a 4.3 litre V8 engine generating 268 bhp. The V8 differs from the V6 model because it has self-coloured bumpers and seven-spoke alloy wheels. The seats are leather and are heated, there is a safe box under the passenger seat and a trip computer. The ML430 looks like being the best off-road vehicle around.

The Mercedes ML320 costs 28,000 pounds sterling, offering a top speed of 112 miles per hour (mph); 0-60 mph in 9 seconds; and average fuel consumption of 23.7 miles per gallon. Other models planned include a 5.5 V8, 4.3 V8, and 2.7 direct injection diesel. Despite lack of cabin plushness, the M-Class Mercedes offers great accommodation and comfort, good driving position, and in-cabin features.

The Mercedes V230 people carrier costs 22,390 pounds sterling on-the-road, and offers a top speed of 106 mph (miles per hour), 0-60 mph in 12.7 seconds, and average fuel consumption of 18.7 miles per gallon. The V230 is the largest of the people carriers, and despite traction control, and well-weighted brakes and steering, the V230 feels bigger and clumsier than others.