Viva el Diesel!
The Mercedes-Benz ML started something in 1997. Arguably, this was the first real, full-fledged luxury SUV. The first time most of us laid eyes on this truck was while we were watching Jurassic Park at our local movie theatre. This movie was huge: big budget, incredible special effects and, a few examples of Mercedes-Benz' new SUV. I would not go so far as to say that the arrival of the ML was a Jurassic event but close. I no time flat, BMW, Lexus, Cadillac and Infiniti wanted in.
The luxury SUV segment soon became a booming category with entries from every manufacturer that staked a claim to offering high-end vehicles; even Porsche saw an opportunity to make some serious and have they ever! The original ML served basically unchanged save for new engines, trims and a mild facelift in 2002 from 1997 to 2005.
The trendsetter
If you are going to start something, you have to make it good.
Mercedes-Benz did and did not do that in the late 90s. The ML was and still is assembled in Alabama. In the early days of the truck, there were a number of quality issues which were dealt with over time. The ML was handsome enough and proudly wore its three-pointed star however it was never regarded as an accomplished off-roader. It did however look great in a shopping mall lot, when valet parking and when cruising on The Main. Its soft sophisticated lines looked luxurious and expensive. The 2006 revamp worked from the existing body details and added some strategically located creases, more girth and stance. The new ML looks less timid and more in command of the road. For 2007, the new ML63 AMG takes the SUV to a whole other level with huge wheels, flared fenders and side skirts, not to mention some serious power beneath the hood.
Onboard, occupants are not bombarded with a dizzying array of controls that stretch from the top to the bottom of the center console. Most buttons are simple and straight forward. The absence of touch-screen capability in the ML does make some audio and navigation menu surfing a little annoying. The irritation quickly dissipates when comfortably in place on the leather covered perches, front and back. Fit and finish are exemplary and the materials, wood, leather and plastics, could easily find their way into the Mount Stephen Club.
Diesel, Diesel O Diesel!
I
always knew I was a fan of diesel power but after spending a week with the ML320 CDI, I think I have become an advocate. The best argument is in the numbers. Over a week and 650 km, I averaged 11.7L of petro-diesel! Phenomenal! Careful daily commutes without "testing" would probably yield 10L averages. What's more, the ML does not sound, smell or perform like a diesel from only 5 years ago. At idle, diesel clatter is audible; I happen to like it because those that recognize the noise are left wondering where it is coming from. There is no smell, period. But boy does it ever go. The turbocharged 3.0L V6 puts out 215 hp and 398 lb/ft of torque. This is enough oomph to see the north side of 100 km/m is just over 8.5 seconds.
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| 2007 Mercedes ML320 CDI (Photo: Philippe Champoux, Auto123.com) |
The luxury SUV segment soon became a booming category with entries from every manufacturer that staked a claim to offering high-end vehicles; even Porsche saw an opportunity to make some serious and have they ever! The original ML served basically unchanged save for new engines, trims and a mild facelift in 2002 from 1997 to 2005.
The trendsetter
If you are going to start something, you have to make it good.
 |
| 2007 Mercedes ML320 CDI (Photo: Philippe Champoux, Auto123.com) |
Onboard, occupants are not bombarded with a dizzying array of controls that stretch from the top to the bottom of the center console. Most buttons are simple and straight forward. The absence of touch-screen capability in the ML does make some audio and navigation menu surfing a little annoying. The irritation quickly dissipates when comfortably in place on the leather covered perches, front and back. Fit and finish are exemplary and the materials, wood, leather and plastics, could easily find their way into the Mount Stephen Club.
Diesel, Diesel O Diesel!
I
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| 2007 Mercedes ML320 CDI (Photo: Philippe Champoux, Auto123.com) |