While the ML350 weighs a Mercedes-like 4,788 pounds, it sports the power of a Chrysler
By: Mike Blake
The Luxury Sports Utility market is getting crowded. It seems that every major manufacturer that puts out sports-utes makes a luxury model. But few can do luxury and quality like Mercedes-Benz, and their M-Class vehicles bring luxury and utility to a new level.
From the three-pointed star badge to its wedge-shaped architecture, the Mercedes ML350 screams class on wheels.
It is a combined Daimler and Chrysler approach the engine and transmission parts are built in Germany and the vehicle is assembled in Alabama to make this SUV drive more like a car than a truck. The combination accomplishes that goal.
In the fall of 1997, Mercedes-Benz entered America’s robust sport-utility segment and hasn’t looked back. Looking forward, the new M-Class still has its wedge-shaped styling, but it has streamlined its former boxiness with integrated fender flares and a slimmer, yet sportier demeanor.
While the ML350 weighs a Mercedes-like 4,788 pounds, it sports the power of a Chrysler, with a new 3.5-liter DOHC V-6 that thrusts out 268 horsepower and 258 lb.-ft. of torque. During my test runs, I was able to accelerate from zero-to-60 in 8.5 seconds not bad for a luxury SUV of this bulk. The seven-speed automatic system got me about 18.5 mpg, well within the stickered EPA rating of 16-city/20-highway.
The interior is filled with Mercedes-Benz luxury. The Obsidian Black ML350 has Ash leather inserts and lots of plush leather and bird’s-eye maple wood throughout. The rear seats are so plush that they won’t lay flat, though all it takes is an easy switch flip and the cushion moves out of the way so the seats flatten for more rear cargo room. Eight-way power bucket seats, heated front seats, electrostatic dust filter, auxiliary port for MP3 and iPod devices, and a modular entertainment system round out the cabin.
The Mercedes Navigational system is good, but a bit unperceptive. It is not quite as user-friendly as ones that operate with a touch-screen system are, but it is the best toggle and knob system I have tried this year.
Some Chrysler-influenced attributes include the sunroof, a trailer hitch (Dodge truck influence?) and the position of the cruise control. That is one thing I find disconcerting about this vehicle and other Daimler/Chrysler products. The design is common on Daimler/Chrysler vehicles as the cruise control lever is positioned above the turn signal and is frequently mis-activated when one reaches for the turn signals.
Handling is very car-like. The ML350’s Permanent four-wheel drive, known as AWD in America, is responsive and sure. Four-wheel traction control rack-and-pinion power-assisted steering, independent double wishbone front suspension and a new four-link rear work as well as those on tough trucks, yet takes the bumps out of the ride, leaving your ride smooth and luxury car-like.
From a safety perspective, the ML350 takes a back seat to no SUV. Front dual-stage airbags, front side airbags, front and rear side window airbags, reinforced body cage, front knee bolsters and front and rear crumple zones offer safety and a secure driving experience. The four-channel ABS and off-road ABS brakes add to driving protection, but I found the brakes a bit soft in my test vehicle. The downhill speed regulator and hill-start assist, however, are both important standard features that work well.
Mercedes just had its best July ever in the United States, selling 20,791 vehicles, up 9 percent over last year. And at $48,825 for the ML350, that figure should continue to rise.
Depreciation is also a selling point, as Mercedes resale value continues to hold up well.
The previous generation of ML 350 is still luxury priced. Y
ou can get a 2003 ML350 for $33,000-$35,000, and a 2004 model still warrants $33,000 to $45,000.
So for an additional $3,000, why not grab the new generation model and all the luxury and safety features accompanying it?
There has been a recall on the ML350’s steering system.
The hydraulic power-assist hose has a clamp that may not provide sufficient clamping force for the connection.
This could cause a loss of power steering fluid.
The recall has begun, and dealers will make a quick and complete fix on all previously purchased ML350s, while all those in stock at dealerships should be remedied before you drive off the lot.
Mercedes-Benz quality of workmanship can be seen throughout and the ride is one of strength and confidence making the ML350 a strong contender in the luxury SUV niche.
Mike Blake, former editor of Kit Car magazine, joined Carlisle Events as senior automotive journalist in 2004. He’s been a "car guy" since the 1960s and has been writing professionally for about 30 years.