In fact, at 398 pound-feet, this diesel mill generates more torque than the new 5.5-litre V8 that Mercedes-Benz offers in the ML as a high performance gas engine; the V8 produces 391 pound-feet @ 2,800 rpm while the small diesel burner produces its maximum torque @ only 1,600 rpm. Granted, the big-8 conjures-up 382 horsepower while the diesel V6 dispatches far less at 215 ponies.
But let's take the comparison a step further and examine fuel economy ratings if we dare. The ML320 CDI receives an EnerGuide Canada rating of 11.3 and 8.3 litres of fuel per 100K of city and highway driving respectively (25/34 mpg) while the V8-powered ML550 is rated at 16.0 and 11.2 litres (18/25 mpg) of premium gasoline for the same distances. That's compelling.
One final nail in the V8's coffin: the ML320 CDI and the ML550 are equally tow-rated at 3,265 kg (7,200 lbs). And if you think the diesel burner is a slug when it comes to acceleration, think again. Mercedes-Benz claims it'll put 100-kph on the clock in just 8.6 seconds, and that's respectable for any large SUV.
Taking the ML320 CDI on the road
Stepping into the throttle from any speed nets very strong acceleration- more so than expected, especially off-the-line. The ML is equipped with a sophisticated 7-speed transmission, which ensures there is a wide cache of gearing available to match immediate needs, whether such needs pertain to economical cruising or robust acceleration.
Small rocker switches on the back of the steering wheel allow the driver to manually operate the transmission with his/her fingertips. This feature is remarkably convenient, and encourages the use of engine braking when slowing down or coming to a stop.
The ML320 CDI is quite a polished performer. The diesel operates with the utmost in discretion, only announcing itself in any meaningful way when asked to perform. Otherwise, the beautifully executed cabin is a place of serenity complemented by a relatively smooth but always composed ride quality.
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| In the ML 320 CDI, the diesel operates with the utmost in discretion. |
But let's take the comparison a step further and examine fuel economy ratings if we dare. The ML320 CDI receives an EnerGuide Canada rating of 11.3 and 8.3 litres of fuel per 100K of city and highway driving respectively (25/34 mpg) while the V8-powered ML550 is rated at 16.0 and 11.2 litres (18/25 mpg) of premium gasoline for the same distances. That's compelling.
One final nail in the V8's coffin: the ML320 CDI and the ML550 are equally tow-rated at 3,265 kg (7,200 lbs). And if you think the diesel burner is a slug when it comes to acceleration, think again. Mercedes-Benz claims it'll put 100-kph on the clock in just 8.6 seconds, and that's respectable for any large SUV.
Taking the ML320 CDI on the road
Stepping into the throttle from any speed nets very strong acceleration- more so than expected, especially off-the-line. The ML is equipped with a sophisticated 7-speed transmission, which ensures there is a wide cache of gearing available to match immediate needs, whether such needs pertain to economical cruising or robust acceleration.
Small rocker switches on the back of the steering wheel allow the driver to manually operate the transmission with his/her fingertips. This feature is remarkably convenient, and encourages the use of engine braking when slowing down or coming to a stop.
The ML320 CDI is quite a polished performer. The diesel operates with the utmost in discretion, only announcing itself in any meaningful way when asked to perform. Otherwise, the beautifully executed cabin is a place of serenity complemented by a relatively smooth but always composed ride quality.
 |
| The beautifully executed cabin is a place of serenity. |