Mercedes-Benz ML350 BlueTEC 4MATIC | Diesel Arrives for the Premium SUV "ML"

Mercedes-Benz ML350 BlueTEC 4MATIC |
Mercedes-Benz ML350 BlueTEC 4MATIC

Diesel Arrives for the Premium SUV "ML"

The ML pursues user-friendliness and functionality. A model featuring the "BlueTEC" clean diesel, which effectively removes harmful substances from diesel exhaust, has arrived for this all-purpose SUV.

Text by Fumio OgawaPhotos by Mercedes-Benz Japan

The ML: Combining Functionality and Off-Road Capability

The Mercedes-Benz ML350 BlueTEC 4MATIC is equipped with a diesel engine that is noted for its excellent fuel efficiency, power, and quietness. This model, positioned as a premium SUV, was launched by Mercedes-Benz Japan on May 31, 2010. A key feature is its new technology that significantly reduces harmful components in exhaust emissions.

The ML is also a model that pursues user-friendliness and functionality. Its high eye-point and excellent visibility make it easy to drive, and its off-road capability, thanks to the four-wheel-drive system called 4MATIC, characterizes its all-purpose nature. Now, the ML350 BlueTEC 4MATIC (¥8.14 million) has been introduced with the new generation "BlueTEC" clean diesel engine.

The Effect of "BlueTEC" Clean Diesel

The greatest feature of the "BlueTEC" diesel is its effective removal of the two main harmful components in diesel engine exhaust: nitrogen compounds called NOx and particulate matter known as PM. While improved combustion efficiency in the engine can remove PM, NOx, which burns at relatively low temperatures, remains. Therefore, "BlueTEC" employs a system that injects urea in the final stage of the exhaust system to neutralize NOx. This ultimately breaks down NOx into nitrogen and water.

The substance used is a urea aqueous solution called "AdBlue." It is stored in a 24-liter tank located under the trunk floor and is consumed at a rate of 1 liter per 1,000 km. Therefore, in most cases, replenishment will be carried out by the service center during vehicle inspections.

The engine mounted in the ML350 BlueTEC 4MATIC is a highly efficient 3-liter V6 direct-injection diesel. By optimizing displacement and increasing power with a turbocharger, it achieves both fuel efficiency and power. Characteristic of a diesel engine that generates torque from low RPMs, it is said to offer power performance comparable to a 5-liter gasoline engine, despite its 3-liter displacement. It also notably complies with Japan's Post New Long-Term Diesel Emission Regulations, a first for an imported SUV.

Simultaneously, a limited edition "ML350 BlueTEC 4MATIC Limited for Seven Summits by Ken Noguchi" (¥8.99 million) was released. This is a limited model born from a collaboration between alpinist Ken Noguchi and Mercedes-Benz Japan. Its creation stems from the synergy between its high driving performance, clean diesel technology, and Ken Noguchi's environmental conservation activities. A portion of the sales will be donated to the NPO "Seven Summits Sustainable Society Organization," which Noguchi heads. This NPO also conducts cleanup activities and environmental protection research. The model features special equipment, including a special color and exclusive 20-inch wheels.