You don't always have to change everything to give new life to a vehicle. Mercedes-Benz knows it and that's why they slightly revised almost their entire lineup over the last year or so. The ML-Class midsize SUV is no exception, as seen and experienced at the recent BlueTEC event in Vermont.
Don't expect significant upgrades. Like many other Mercedes-Benz models, including the new SLK, the 2009 ML benefits from minor improvements only.
First, BlueTEC
The biggest change is found under the hood. Starting next year, the ML320 will be available with a BlueTEC V6, a proven, worldly-acclaimed clean diesel technology soon to be shared with most M-B products, including the GL-Class and R-Class.
Basically, BlueTEC uses an advanced process which injects a solution into the exhaust system to reduce nitrogen oxides and achieve the same emission levels as the cleanest gasoline engines. It's so effective that the E320 BlueTEC has been voted as the World Green Car of the Year.
Obviously, this diesel engine is not all about reduced emissions. It also achieves 30-percent greater fuel economy while delivering a lot more low-end torque. This allows for explosive takeoffs, although the mill seems to run out of steam fairly quickly.
Second, styling
As mentioned, the modifications are pretty minor. Visually, the automaker tweaked the front and rear bumpers, lowered the headlights (also redesigned) and added fog lights as standard equipment. In the back, the taillights are revised, while a new stainless steel-like trim gives more presence to the vehicle.
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| The BlueTEC technology is the biggest change under the hood of the ML320. |
Don't expect significant upgrades. Like many other Mercedes-Benz models, including the new SLK, the 2009 ML benefits from minor improvements only.
First, BlueTEC
The biggest change is found under the hood. Starting next year, the ML320 will be available with a BlueTEC V6, a proven, worldly-acclaimed clean diesel technology soon to be shared with most M-B products, including the GL-Class and R-Class.
Basically, BlueTEC uses an advanced process which injects a solution into the exhaust system to reduce nitrogen oxides and achieve the same emission levels as the cleanest gasoline engines. It's so effective that the E320 BlueTEC has been voted as the World Green Car of the Year.
Obviously, this diesel engine is not all about reduced emissions. It also achieves 30-percent greater fuel economy while delivering a lot more low-end torque. This allows for explosive takeoffs, although the mill seems to run out of steam fairly quickly.
Second, styling
As mentioned, the modifications are pretty minor. Visually, the automaker tweaked the front and rear bumpers, lowered the headlights (also redesigned) and added fog lights as standard equipment. In the back, the taillights are revised, while a new stainless steel-like trim gives more presence to the vehicle.
 |
| Basically, BlueTEC uses an advanced process which injects a solution into the exhaust system to reduce nitrogen oxides. |