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Comments
Gasoline engines sound nothing like diesel engines (the pitch and frequency is completely different) so I always find it odd when someone compares the ML gasoline engine to a diesel engine. If you listen to a domestic brand pickup truck's diesel engine...now THAT's a diesel!
Drew
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As for the interior, if you didn't like it before (I assumed you looked at a MY2000 or newer), you may be disappointed now because it hasn't changed aside from the centre console cupholder, and the automatic climate control.
The MY2002 models will very in extremely short supply for the first several weeks of the launch, and prices are expected to be at MSRP for a while.
Drew
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Fortunately, even if MB doesn't get a BabySmart version of the Super Elite, one could use the BabySmart toddler seat up to a certain age, and hope that by the time the child outgrows it, the child may be easier to leave in the backseat (and use the non-BabySmart Super Elite), which of course is always the best place even with the BabySmart technology.
The Super Elite should also do a much better job than a Britax booster seat in keeping a child from sleeping against the rear side airbag -- at least in theory. That's because its five-point harness should discourage some leaning, and it has some limited side bolsters.
Initial feedback from parents lucky enough to get the early run of the Super Elite is extremely positive. However, I'll probably leave my son in his Roundabout until he gets close to outgrowing it before switching to the Super Elite, figuring that the Roundabout is still more optimized for toddlers. But I think we'll skip boosters until he outgrows the Super Elite, I really like the idea of the five-point harness for him.
Fisher-Price had made the Futura which went to (I think) 60 lbs, and it was somewhat similar though not as elaborate as the Super Elite. However, that model was discontinued and now Fisher-Price is leaving the car seat business.
For those of you who are curious as to how Babysmart works, the BabySmart system uses a small "resonator" specially integrated into the child seat, somewhat similar to the security tags sometimes attached to merchandise in retail clothing stores. A low-power signal from the car prompts a return signal from the resonator in a BabySmart-equipped infant seat, allowing the system to sense the presence of the seat and automatically turn off the passenger's front airbag. Since the car's signal is essentially "reflected" back by the resonator in the child seat, the seat itself needs no battery or power hookup.
According to the EPA,
"Because of their superior emissions performance, Mercedes-Benz voluntarily entered the M-Class models in the EPS's National Low-Emission Vehicle (NLEV) program (the vehicles' gross vehicle weight --vehicle weight plus full carrying capacity -- would normally exempt the M-Class models from that program)."
Drew
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If one has to put the child in the front and he or she is too big for the toddler seat, then it's the BabySmart booster unless MB gets Britax to make a BabySmart version of the Super Elite.
If one is certain to have the child in the rear, then I feel a Super Elite (even one that isn't a BabySmart version) is a better alternative than a booster - BabySmart or not. Especially since it'll help keep the child from sleeping against the rear side airbag.
It's also important for owners to know that those stated weight ranges are generally approximate, and height (specifically, head and torso height) is also a factor. E.g. a taller baby can outgrow a car seat before he or she reaches the seat's rated weight limit.
It'll be great if MB gets Britax to make a BabySmart version of the Super Elite. While the Super Elite seems like a new model, it's actually a version of the older Britax Traveller Plus, a seat for children with special needs that goes up to 105 pounds.
I contacted Britax and they have informed me that there is no baby smart with resonator as Drew has kindly explained it to us here. But they recommended their newest product for toddlers (The King) which is good also for aircraft carrier! It is a good alternative if you wish for those who also fly with their toddlers. Here is their link http://www.childseat.com/ and it costs $189.99
Thus, in the meantime I would leave my child in the back seat until she is 12 or 13 years old.
Cheers
Johnny
The King is a good seat, forward-facing only. Its main advantage, as I'm sure Britax told you, is somewhat simplified installation because you install a frame for the seat first, and then can just put on the main seat.
For those who are getting 2002's with their ISOFIX/LATCH attachments, Britax makes a forward-facing-only toddler seat that works with ISOFIX, the Expressway.
Is the 3rd row seat option tied in with anything like Sunroof etc.. I am leaning towards going only with the 3rd row and xenon but skipping sunroof which has been a major source of issues / problems.
Anyone with any comments on the Bose sound on the M Class. I have it on my E wagon. Don't think it is that great but this could be due to the interior dynamics. Is there any change in the Bose system offered in 2002 vs. 2001. I believe that Q45 has a very high end of Bose sound vs. a regular stuff used in the MB???
Drew, I am well aware of 6cyl. engine availability in S class in Europe. I was just recapturing the goodies on the M Class and by the way, I think that 2002 interior should have a major positive change vs. the prior MY in terms of layout / air conditioning and AFAIK, materials - not to mention the external looks. If these do not make any difference than Mercedes has really lost the impact and declining M sales will be a continued trend.
Either the skview or sunroof is tied into getting the M7 option for the third row seat, I believe (U.S. market). You also cannot buy the M1 Luxury Package or M2 Convenience package without the sunroof or skyview.
Yeah, I believe you have to take the moonroof whether you like it or not, if you want the 3rd row seats + leather.
FWIW, in fact, sales for July 2001 are about 220+ more vs. July 2000.
Drew
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Once I compose my message, how long should I wait before it appears?
-- Gustav
New, high quality controls in the center instrument panel
Automatic control of blower temperature and ventilation for greater convenience.
Manual operation still possible
Solar sensors allow quick automatic temperature adjustment.
Output of compressor greatly increased to improve cooling
Newly designed controls, individually adjustable rear vents and vents under front seats for increased comfort to rear passengers.
Rear unit can also be turned on and off from the front control unit
Residual engine heat utilization system built in to heat the passenger compartment when the car is stationery.
New center console design:
New shape front ahstray at the bottom of the center dome in front of the shift gate
Additional storage area with roll cover (as in passenger cars) behind the shift gate with a large cup-holder that can hold up to 32-oz cups
New two-stage center console (shallow, deep) for better storage options
Two redesigned cup holders for the rear passengers
Updated MCS display with black bg for easier viewing both day and night
Misc.
Standard sound system upgraded with two additional tweeters in exterior mirror cover area
Power windows with one-touch express up/down (all four windows are fitted with one-touch control and obstruction sensors)
ML320 and ML500 new tank capacity of 22 gallons (from 19 gallons for ML320 and ML430)
Automatic Lighting System (ALS) - Enhanced Lighting
Automatic headlamp activation (similar to other MB passenger cars)
Locator lighting: the exterior lights are switched on when the radio remote control is used.
Night-time Security Illumination: front and rear lights remain illuminated for a limited period (programmable up to 60 seconds) after leaving the car
Daytime running lights available (activated per customer request at dealership)
New "auto"; position on headlight stalk
Additional windshield washer low indicator added to instrument cluster
Notifies customer when tank has less than 1.25 liters (0.33 gallons) left in it
ML500 interior equipment level differentiation maintained as per ML430:
M1 package standard
Trip computer/compass, auto-dimming mirrors, power folding mirrors and lockable safebox standard
Heated front seats, GPS navigation, and wood gearshift standard
EXTERIOR
Completely new sculpted design of front and rear bumpers, sculpted mounted more aggressively to the body in lieu of frame. The lower grille is also painted in body color
Additional cladding piece added to lower tailgate improving sporty appearance in the rear
Front head lamps in clear glass with newly designed reflectors that ensure improved road illumination and give the front section of the vehicle an updated, modern approach
Fog lamps integrated into the front bumper as standard feature. Now legal in all 50 states
Newly designed glass covers for the rear lights
Aerodynamically advanced exterior mirrors with integrated blinkers enhance the vehicle's styling and visibility as well as reduced wind noise. Also, turn signals in side fenders are eliminated to further increase aerodynamics of the vehicle.
New exterior paints: Alabaster White (instead of Polar White and not available for ML55), Everest Green (replaces Cypress Green), Captil Blue (replaces Azure Blue)
New Wheel Design for the ML320
More aggressive stance with 17" (up from 16") rims
8" x 17" redesigned 5-spoke wheels
Tires: 255/60R17, "H" rated -- Dunlop Sport All Seasons
ML500 vs. ML320
An impressive 5.0l V8 engine will replace the current 4.3 l V8 in 2002, incorporating further exterior differentiation to present a complete new model package for the M-Class and includes:
5.0 l V8 288 HP, 325 lb-ft engine
Improved performance both 0-60 and top speed
Minimal reduction in fuel economy
Exterior differentiation added ML500 ML500 vs. ML320
New, sportier chrome applications around body
Grille with chromed louvers (similar to current ML55)
Chromed door handles and trim above license plate on tailgate
New style 17" 6-spoke aluminum wheels
275/55R17 "V" rated tires
ML55AMG Exterior Differentiation over ML500
Receives all chrome applications similar to ML500
Further, silver painted grille with chrome added to the front
Unique AMG 5-spoke sport wheels and cladding remain
EQUIPMENT
Enhanced Bose Sound System (STD ML55)
Total of 9 high-end speakers (2 tweeters in outside mirror cover area on doors and 2 drivers added to top of D-pillar)
New digital amplifier
Audiopilot sound leveling system assuring maximum sound quality given any outside noise intereference
External mirror memory (STD ML55)
Now part of optional Seat Memory packages M2/M3
Parking aid included (pass. mirror tilts down in reverse)
Parktronic system (PTS)
The Parktronic system (code 220) is familiar to the other passenger car model series. As the front ultrasound sensor would be obscured by the front brush guard, the guard should not be installed at the dealer if this factory option is ordered.
Parktronic is only factory option on ML55 (all others are standard)
Bi-Xenon headlamps with cleaning system and dynamic adjustment
Bi-Xenon headlamps are fitted as standard on the ML 55: includes headlamp cleaning system and dynamic range adjustment. Available as an option on the other M-Class models without requiring M6 Sport package
M5 Sunroof package
Power rear quarter windows added to Power Sun Roof as a package for MY02
Power rear quarter windows are not included in M7 3rd row seat package any longer
(Note: all "M" option packages require M5 when ordering)
Voice recognition system:
VR added as possibility with Timeport Phone System
Pre-wiring done at factory, stalk added at dealership
VR controls phone and audio functions
Deleted equipment:
Skyview top (code 417) is no longer available for MY02
The emergency key is no longer available for MY02
OTHER
Safety features
Windowbags for front and outer rear-seat passengers (standard) giving the M-Class an unprecedented 8 airbag 10-way safety system STANDARD.
ISOFIX child seat mounting (standard)
The rear bench comes with two ISOFIX child seat mountings for the left and right seats. Two ISOFIX mountings are also integrated into the optional third row of seats (M7)
...in the child seat thread...;-> ...?
We (actually my almost-four-year-old son) had a Recaro *Start* (English Recaro homepage, then "products", "child seat") for almost one year now, and he likes it a lot! Here's a small image, the full-resolution pic can be seen here.
Not pictured (well, it's "parked" in the footwell - gotta have a talk with mom...) is the detachable headrest, which supports his head sideways while he's sleeping. This headrest as well as the (in height and width adjustable) shoulder supports would keep him at a safe distance to rear sidebags, windowbags, and glass. The Recaro also features a height adjustable back rest, lumbar support, length adjustment for the seating surface (!), a sleeping position and is foldable. We also got the (adjustable) optional footrest, which braces the seat against the car's floor to also add some strength. The towels' purpose is to protect the Rex's soft and supple leath... ...enough now, big
Tarik
Heh, the childseat has almost as many adjustments as the S-class's front seats, but the colour scheme kind of clashes with the oak interior, doesn't it.
BTW, WRC Safari Rally on Speedvision right now!
Drew
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Although I'm a WRC Rally fan through and through, I had enough action and satisfaction during today's F1 GP in Hungary! Shuey clinches his fourth WC, Barrichello helps to achieve the third consecutive WCC for Ferrari, Irvine's out in the first corner, young Heidfeld in 6th place, what's more to expect? I need a rest...
Tarik, seeding rumors
I didn't watch the race, but I did watch the qualifying. Poor David Coulthart was blocked twice by traffic and he wasn't happy, eh? Mika's initial pole qualifying time was blown out of the water by who else but Michael Schumacher's. Now, when is the next ALMS race? ;-). Too bad we don't get to see full length German DTM races except on Motorsport Mundial. Looks like a lot of fun with all of the AMG MBzs, the Audis, and the Opels.
Ohhh, ei diddn't nohw zet Hubbert's Enklisch was aniwea as guhd as mein...
Oh man, this stuff is so easy to pronounce (and make fun of), but impossible to spell!
As to the DTM, here are four links (which you might already have in your favorites...), only one (#2) in English, though:
Mercedes Benz official DTM special, CrashNet (this is not what it appears to be), and two German DTM sites, DTM News and the official DTM homepage.
Tarik
I remember reading a review on the now-defunct BabyCenter store about someone loving his Donato because its leather matched his Porsche's interior. Except then I wondered exactly what was the seating position (he was probably making it up), since there isn't a BabySmart version of it. Maxi-Cosi is a European maker of carseats so like Britax, their seats are very good.
Maxi Cosi:
http://www.coscoinc.com/products/priori/maxicos.html
For those comparing a Britax Roundabout with a Maxi Cosi:
http://www.geocities.com/~plomp/bravsmcp.htm
Since some race talk was advanced, I will lament to the poor showing of Mercedes this year (second place) and the third place in the Hungarian Grand Prix, but with the one billion dollar asault by Ferrari I am going to have to settle for seconds, on the other hand, the Le Mans series, in the Prototype 900 class, Audi, my favorite team, gave me a good excuse for some cold beers.
How about YTD July 2001 vs. YTD July 2000.
Also, I wrote several months ago about the awful hesitation in my '01ML320 when first accelerating. It has gotten even worse. Does anyone know if a service advisory has been issued, as the dealer kept it for 3 days on two different visits and found nothing (they could fix, anyway).
Third, I'm thinking of selling mine and buying an '02 model. It's black/charcoal with M1, bose, sroof and heated seats. It has 11k miles. Any idea of what I could expect to get? I'm in Winston-Salem, NC.
Thanks.
Mean Tarik
Steve
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Apologetic Tarik
I looked your ML-320 photo. There is a cover on cargo area. I just got my ML-320 this month with M7 3rd seat. I did not have that retractible cover. Is this because 3rd seat there is no space for that cover or it was hide somewhere?
BTW this one was manufactured on June 2001. Is this one has fuel pump problem?
Thanks
Since it's illegal to use a handheld cell phone while driving in NY, I bought a CCM Navigator handsfree kit ($50 in Target...very happy with it). The problem is that when I plug it into the cigarette lighter with the ashtray door open, the ashtray light reflects off the passenger side window. It's nothing major, but it's constantly in my peripheral vision...kinda annoying. Just wondering if there is anyway to turn off or disable the light. Or should I just go the low-tech route and cover it with tape? Thanks.
Todd
The speed on the 2002 ML320 is 195 km/h (121 mph), so the limit has indeed increased.
-- Gustav
Thanks for the tips. I regularly enjoy cruising in SUV's at such speeds to burn the carbon off the injectors. Just kidding but thanks for the tips I can't wait until mine get's here!
The speed on the 2002 ML320 is 195 km/h (121 mph), so the limit has indeed increased.
-- Gustav
Lee, what I like about that is that, while the 320 will have less power than the 500 (222 km/hr or 138 mph), it will still give plenty of safe passing power, without being a full-fledged gas guzzler. I don't think that I'll be going any faster than 110 miles on it anyway, so no need for that extra 16 mph...
It looks like it's going to be a "beaut'"!
Seriously, as long as one can pass safely at 90-100mph, who needs more speed in an SUV? Specially in the US!
-- Gustav
I am considering
1. Get a new battery now.
2. Get a jump start, such as prestone jumpstart (which is basically a new battery with fancy gears attached, cost around $70)
3. Get a charger to charge the battery every week to make sure battery is full charged
One more thing. Should I just go to any auto parts store and get a battery with the same or over crank power? Is there anything special about "Mercedes-branded" maintenance-mandated battery? "Mercedes-branded" battery costs over $110 while battery at auto parts costs around $40 for the same or similar crank power. Comments appreciated. Thanks.