On the face of it, the M-class appears to be the perfect all-rounder for the Indian market. Firstly the badge says Mercedes-Benz and that’s an asset not many can upstage. Through DaimlerChrysler India, you have more peace of mind with regard to service and spares, than other imported brands without a base in India. The M-class’ understated looks and styling may not excite potential owners more keen on flaunting their car in the porch of a five-star hotel than racing up a muddy 30-degree slope.

The fundamental strengths of the M-class lie in its solid engineering, superb performance from a state-of-the-art powertrain and that built-to-last feel. The generous ground clearance and tough chassis also means you don’t have to worry about grounding your precious Mercedes or which pothole to avoid. Besides, that lofty driving position, synonymous with all SUVs, makes you feel in command of the road. Of course there are sacrifices. The ride is bumpy, the rear a touch cramped and getting in and out not that easy. So does the emotional appeal or extra utility and safety of an SUV overshadow the benefits afforded by a better performing, more comfortable and refined luxury saloon? The ML 270 CDI’s price may give you the answer. At almost Rs 40 lakh, the M-class is roughly Rs 10 lakh more expensive than even the pricey E220 CDI which, by all accounts, will do the job better 80 percent of the time. Also remember that the famous Pajero rolls onto our streets in May, cheaper by around Rs 8 lakh. And that friends, is a whole Tata Safari free!

Phenomenal SUV but too expensive