Mercedes-Benz M-Class

Summary

The Mercedes ML is now known as the Mercedes GLE according to the new nomenclature adopted by the German car maker. The only version having the ML badge is the Mercedes M-Guard. This car is made to order and is the armoured version of the midsize Mercedes SUV.

Exterior

The M-Guard looks like a standard ML SUV from the outside. It has more curves as compared to the boxy GL and gets the typical SUV stance. The M-Guard gets VR4 certification for armoured safety.

Interior

The interior is plush and gets all the requisites of a luxury car. The car will be imported on order and is built to protective requirements of resistance level VR4 which covers handguns up to 0.44 Magnum.

Engine Transmission

The M-Guard will be available with the Mercedes 4.6-litre engine which produces 408bhp with 600Nm of torque. The car gets 7G-Tronic transmission.

Performance & Handling

 In spite of the increased weight caused by its armour, the M-Guard achieves the impressive ride, comfort and great agility. It also features as standard an AIRMATIC air suspension system with Adaptive Damper System.

Braking System

It gets disc brakes up front as well as in the rear with ABS, EBD and ESP.

Mileage

The 4663 cc Petrol - powered variant delivers a fuel economy of 10 kmpl in city and 12 kmpl on highways.

Safety Features

The M-Guard will come with a load of safety features along with front, side and curtain airbags except the Distronic due to the unavailability of radio wave spectrum that is reserved by the security agencies in India.

Verdict

The M-Guard is the only armoured SUV offered by any car manufacturer in India and is one of the safest SUVs to be in.

Competition

The M-Guard, owing to its armour, has no direct competition.

Pros

1. Safety
2. Off-road ability

Cons

1. Weight
2. Fuel Economy