2009 Mercedes-Benz ML320 BlueTEC Review

I think we can all agree on the need to produce cleaner, more fuel-efficient vehicles. Dissenters may as well stop reading now and go about their wasteful wicked ways. Like me, those who stay will undoubtedly wonder which technology, be it electric, hydrogen, hybrid or diesel will emerge victorious in the war to be the popular choice in the 'green label' war.

The M-Class projects a stately but sporty image that is suitably distinctive from the crowd.

Mercedes-Benz is touting diesel, and for darn good reason. They claim that their BlueTEC diesel engines are the cleanest diesels ever produced for the passenger car market; and above the absence of pollutants is economy. These powerplants sip diesel more sparingly than ever before.

New visuals for 2009
ML Styling revisions for 2009 are discreet, as they should be in a premium-level marque. The mid-size Benz receives restyled front and rear fascias, a more prominent grille and contoured headlights. Inside a two-tone theme has been adopted along with a richer selection of finishes.

Overall, the M-Class projects a stately but sporty image that is suitably distinctive from the crowd. Strong Mercedes-Benz lineage is evident throughout this vehicle, supplying it with the prerequisite credentials to look as elegant at the club as it is rugged at the cottage.

Comfort and convenience
Given its Mercedes-Benz DNA, the ML320 BlueTEC is the recipient of all the "bells and whistles" demanded by purchasers of high-end automobiles. My tester exemplified this concept thanks to its Premium Package, which included voice-activated navigation, heated front and rear seats, premium audio and a power-operated lift gate.

Power 10-way adjustable front seats held my form in splendor that was supportive, firm and fatigue-free. I was also spoiled with a heated steering wheel, multi-zone climate control and Bluetooth connectivity.

The BlueTEC difference
There's nothing new about the usage of diesel engines in passenger cars, certainly not in Europe where they outnumber gasoline engines. What's new and exciting in the Mercedes-Benz stable of oil burners is the trickle-down of BlueTEC diesel technology from their commercial truck line to select offerings in their passenger car/SUV field.

The ML320 BlueTEC is the recipient of all the "bells and whistles" demanded by purchasers of high-end automobiles.