My View on Mercedes Benz 2441 SHD
I never thought i`ll need to write this, but here goes.MB has taken huge, huge leaps, and for the good with the 2441. Never Imagined that they would be so good.
The Cabin is designed nicely, but needs little attention on the finish. The Body is on par with Volvo in terms of finish, which means that there is room for improvement, but the quality of the body is way ahead of Volvo. Interiors are very tastefully done, have huge intake, and is worth it.
The Engine is smooth, silent(acceptable levels) and very responsive. The ZF Automatic is just perfect, and provides very smooth shifts, aids heavy acceleration and is very responsive. Kickdowns are aggressive, quick and the bus shifts as per need and without lags. It is actually better than the iShift and Opticruise in terms of pickup and response. However, there is a slight discomofort when the bus is doing 69-72kph, as the bus is slightly jerky. Fuel Efficiency is also very good, as the crew were saying it gave 2.6kpl with the constant 100kph and traffic. Thats a very good figure, if you consider the in-service events and the strict adherence to schedules.
The Brakes are very sharp and responsive, a welcome change from the usual sloppy brakes from Mercedes Benz.
Vibrations are highly acceptable, and the engine sound is just like Volvo B9R, no difference at all. However, last two rows need little more insulation and the Emergency Exit door needs to be properly aligned shut as there is small amount of air leakage. Panels/Passenger Saloon from the inside are of high quality, and are neatly done. However, Daimler may need to give some attention on their window frames from the inside as it needs little more perfection, as they need to give attention to cover the glass-frame-interior panel section properly.
Suspension is very good, it is not too bouncy or stiff, or is not on the stable/glide-y like Scania. It can safely,and accurately be said that it is right in between Volvo and Scania. It can take bad roads and can give a good sleep without spoiling your sleep. Another perfection attained by Daimler.
Frankly speaking, the 2441 and the Volvo B11R are on the same level in terms of Body, but 2441 has better quality and can take quite a beating. Considering all the facts i have mentioned, this can make a mark, if it is marketed properly, and the service issues addressed on a very,very serious note, for which,all of us know the infamous reputation Daimler has.
It has a long way to go if it needs to achieve the finesse and the refinement levels that Scania has offered.
You cannot call this as the generator anymore, as it is gone silent (B9R levels to be precise) and I observed this on the Parveen 2441 which passed us at Chennai.
2441 is a game changer, and both the Swedes are going to have a tough time if it is pitched and maintained well.
Kudos, Mercedes Benz. You have finally stepped up. Hope to see you excel.
Competition is good.