It has been 14 years (time flies) since Mercedes-Benz introduced the ML sport-utility. Some definite quality issues were present and many drivers questioned if the SUV was in fact a ‘true’ Mercedes!
With the 2012 ML, Mercedes has built a vehicle that is much more in line with its tradition of building a high quality luxury piece.
So what does the new 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML 350 have to offer?
The ML is available with two engines – a 3.5-liter V6 gasoline mill that delivers 302 hp and 273 ft. lb. of torque and a 3.0-liter Blue TEC diesel providing 240 hp and a stump pulling 455 ft. lb. of torque. The transmission is a seven-speed automatic that provides very smooth operation while keeping the engine in its powerband. The power is routed through a full-time 4MATIC all-wheel drive system. The ML’s 0-60 mph time for both engines is in 7.3 seconds. Additionally, both engines allow this Mercedes to tow up to 7.200 lbs.
The new ML has better integrated exterior styling. The chromes edged grille is aggressive looking and has a prominent three pointed star. The headlights fit the curve of the front fenders and the front bumper incorporates multiple air intakes. A lower brushed-aluminum skidplate completes the look. This new model retains the familiar high sill side profile with flowing C pillars. The roof has a full-size panoramic sunroof. This Mercedes is more visually interesting and refined than the last model.
Of note is that the chassis for the ML was part of the joint work between Mercedes and Chrysler. Not only does this ML benefit from the effort but the latest Jeep Cherokee also has benefited as well.
On the inside the interior of this Mercedes has been upgraded and provides deep rich leather combined with wood trim. The interior is similar to the upscale E-Class. The ML has a central command navigation screen. The heated seats are supportive, highly comfortable and have six-way power adjustment. They are thus some of the best chairs in the business. The rear provides additional space compared to the last model. There is 36 cubic feet of space with the rear seats up and 71 cubic feet with the seats folded flat.
Standard features on this Mercedes includes HD AM/FM stereo with 100 watts and eight speakers, six disc CD changer with MP3, speed sensitive volume, seven inch navigation screen, SD card reader, wireless communication access for Bluetooth enabled devises, streaming audio, vehicle location system with mbrace in-vehicle technology (safety and security, navigation, destination planning and convenience service by vehicle, online and compatible Smartphone), front audio input jack, USB port, and more
The brakes are discs at all four corners measuring 13 inches at the front and 12.8 inches at the rear. The wheels are 19 inch twin five-spoke alloys fitted with 255 50 19 inch rubber.
The electric assisted steering includes an active parking system that scans the street for a suitable parking spot and it will park the ML 350 without the driver touching the steering wheel.
The suspension consists of double wishbones at the front and a multi-link design at the rear. Additionally, active roll-bars at the front and rear control each corner of the vehicle.
Active and passive safety systems include ABS, electronic brake force distribution, stability and traction control, lane keep assist, attention assist, radar-based cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, brake drying, hill decent control, and nine airbags.
On the road this Mercedes provides buttoned down handling combined with good ride quality. It shines when cruising on long distant highway traveling. It is quiet and refined in urban driving.
Carrying cargo is easy. Overall, this Mercedes’ level of comfort is like getting away from it all and staying at an exclusive top-rated hotel.
The fuel ratings are 17 city and 22 mpg on the highway for the 3.5-liter gas engine and 20 city and 25 mpg highway for the 3.0-liter diesel.
The gasoline Mercedes ML 350 is priced at $49,865 and the Blue TEC diesel starts at $51,365.
If you want a luxurious crossover that is exquisitely engineered and can handle all roads and weather conditions, this Mercedes should be high on your test drive list.
View the slideshow to see the 2012 Mercedes ML 350 inside and out!
Kyle Busch is the author of “Drive the Best for the Price: How to Buy a Used Automobile, Sport-Utility Vehicle, or Minivan and Save money.” He welcomes your comments or car questions at his auto web site: www.cartown1.com. Follow Kyle on Facebook and Twitter.