MERCEDES-Benz has introduced a new entry-level diesel model to its M-class SUV range.

The ML280 CDI uses the same 3.0-litre V6 diesel as found in the ML320 CDI, but has been detuned from 224bhp to 190bhp.

Although it is fractionally slower than its bigger brother, the ML280 CDI offers identical fuel economy and CO2 emission figures.

It is priced from £35,175, a saving of £1,540 over the ML320 CDI.