Mercedes-Benz M-Class (2006+)
merc1
Member Posts: 6,081
I got a chance to see the new ML this past weekend in Detroit. I must say that I wasn't too impressed with it. The interior looks (they were all locked) to be of higher quality that the current model and the overall styling is much better and line line with the latest Mercedes themes present on the new SLK and CLS.
Somehow though I didn't find the whole vehicle that moving. I still think the VW Touared has a better interior and overally look. The new ML is much bigger on the inside though per the measurements, but it looks smaller and more trim on the outside... a styling trick Mercedes is good at nowadays.
Overall there seems to be something lacking wit the ML compared to Mercedes' cars. Anyone else seen the new ML in person if so what are you thoughts?
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Somehow though I didn't find the whole vehicle that moving. I still think the VW Touared has a better interior and overally look. The new ML is much bigger on the inside though per the measurements, but it looks smaller and more trim on the outside... a styling trick Mercedes is good at nowadays.
Overall there seems to be something lacking wit the ML compared to Mercedes' cars. Anyone else seen the new ML in person if so what are you thoughts?
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Comments
To give you a hint, I would love the new M-Class compared to the first generation which was a little cheaper looking this one is not, with more enhancements which are to many to go into. Wait until the later part of 2005 if you want an suv the larger M-class will be for you, sporting a frame that is supposed to be larger than the ford Expedition, but really The GST is awesome in style and in comfort. It does have the Panoramic roof and really a great product. Any questions just ask I try to help you with anything I can.
Price was up in the air. I heard mid 50s which seems like a huge jump over the current model. You can get a 2005 ML Special Edition for around 40,500. Why spend 15k more for a new model especially when an RX 330 or Touareg runs in the 39-42k range.
I'll wait and test drive the new ML before making any decisions. I hope the hit the market with right options and pricing as the service on my two current MBs has been fantastic!
Will the M Class have 3rd row seat/7 passenger capacity?
Thanks
Bob
The GST is an upscale wagon with AWD, higher driving position, an all glass roof, and seating for 6 or 7 depending upon configuration. Practical use of an all glass roof with no sun roof and no rack remain to be seen. If you ever use your sun roof or roof rack don't waste your time waiting for the GST.
Glad to hear that they look good in real life. The photos are nice but nothing like seeing a the real deal.
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http://www.knopfauto.com/
I guess Mercedes is satisfied with the quality of the ML to push the release date up.
****** Deep Sigh, with fingers crossed ******
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Release date is March 21, 2005
ML350: $39,750
ML500: $48,500
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http://www.mbusa.com/microsite/m-class/index.jsp
Per the Benz usual there are lots of options. Including the expected AMG Sport Package:
Stroudman,
Yeah I'm waiting for the chance to look at one on the inside too. I didn't understand why they had them all locked at the Detroit and Chicago auto shows.
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Stroudman & Merc1 - do you know if Mercedes is planning on doing a "test and ride" event for the new ML - similar to the C-Spot and Love Mercedes events last year?
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First observations, very nice styling. The body is sleek yet still keeps the rugged SUV looks many drivers want. The fit and finish were on par with the E and S class so this speaks well for US assembly.
Climbing in was okay but not great. The wood was fine but not excellent like the E. I feel they missed the mark on the dash. It looks mid-market not high-end.
The seats were firm but the leather was a joke. I had to go back to the window sticker on every ML I saw to confirm the seats were really leather inserts and not 100% MB Tex. My C had nicer feeling seats.
The drive was firm without being stiff. I did notice a bit more body roll than in the X3/X5. Very little dive under braking and the brakes are excellent!
Performance was fine, I never really pushed the car hard but the 350 V6 seems to have a good bit of power on tap. The 7-speed is like a hot knife through butter. Smooth and quick shifting all the way. I did notice a LAG in shifting when using the steering wheel toggle switches. Driver training will be required to remember the odd shift pattern especially putting the car in Park.
Sun roof seemed small. AC worked well. Sound system was quite good but not up to the E class standard.
Interior is a bit stark. It just did nothing for me. The instrument panel is plain and feels more Nissan like than Mercedes. The doors are boring and would be third-world if not for the wood trim. I can not imagine how cheap the aluminum trim version must look.
Interior volume is excellent. If you want room for a family of four or five this baby has it. The rear seats, other than the questionable "leather", are comfortable, easy to get in and out of, and have plenty of room to relax in. No cramped feet or legs here.
Cargo bay has some nice size to it. Easy to take a ton of luggage on a trip and stuff the dog back there at the same time with room to spare. This is one area Mercedes really got right.
Overall - I wouldn't spend $48,000 for this SUV. The interior is cheap, the ride is less than sporty, the fuel economy is not very good especially when compared to the Lexus or Toyota Hybrids. For a lot less you can buy a very nice GMC Denali, get similar MPG, have more room, and get a REAL leather interior. Both have similar instrument styling and mid-market feeling interiors.
As a multi-Mercedes owner it pains me to say that this was an easy vehicle to walk away from. I wouldn't want one in my driveway unless perhaps it was priced in the $35-$38 range where it would be more comparable to the X3 or XC 90. even then both of those get much better MPG. Finally, the Toyota Highlander Hybrid is available fully loaded in 4x4 configuration for around $42k and gets 33 MPG city, 28 Highway. Now thats a serious piece of technology in action.
As far as sporty, think X5. The M-class is a luxury car, it's fairly athletic, but the priority is on luxury.
The E-class costs more, it should feel and look nicer inside, shouldn't it?