2002 Mercedes-Benz ML 270 CDI

Automotive Industries, Nov, 2001 by Andrea Wielgat

For all the diesel fans in North America here is yet another quality diesel engine that will most likely never make it to this side of the Atlantic.

The Mercedes-Benz ML 270 CDI is quiet inside, yet has the torque that diesel drivers know and love.

The 5-cylinder, 2.7L engine makes 163 hp at 4,200 rpm and 272.9 pounds-feet of torque at 1,600 to 2,800 rpm. Most impressive is its fuel consumption at 25 mpg for the 5-speed automatic.

Mercedes updated the ML 270 CDI -- along with all the other engine variants in the range -- for 2002. While the SUV received more than 1,100 modifications for the new model year, the most noticeable is the vehicle's new headlights. Now with clear glass, the vehicle takes on a more elegant, updated look The ML 270 CDI--and the ML 320 -- also sees its body attachments, including bumpers, rub strips and exterior mirror casings painted in the vehicle's color.

One thing that hasn't changed about the 2002 Mercedes-Benz ML SUV is its surprising off-road ability. Mercedes has proven time and time again that while owners may not be using the vehicle for off-road driving, the SUV can handle tough terrain, including the tumultuous landscape of an old East German mine.

Also new for 2002 is the ML 400 CDI and the ML 500. The 250 hp V-8 diesel won't make it stateside, but the 292 hp V-8 ML 500 will. Interested customers can head to dealerships -- the vehicle is already on sale.