It’s been awhile since Mercedes-Benz’ ML-Class mid-sized SUV was last redesigned – the second generation ML-Class was introduced in 2005 as a 2006 model – and since then the luxury SUV class has been growing with new and redesigned models like the BMW X5, Audi Q7, Acura MDX, Lexus RX350, Land Rover LR4, Infiniti FX, Volvo XC90, Cadillac SRX, Porsche Cayenne, Volkswagen Touareg, and Jeep Grand Cherokee, all vying for a piece of the pie.
If for no other reason than it’s been on the market for six years, the Mercedes-Benz ML-Class needed a redesign, and the new 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML350 gas and diesel models, which will arrive this September, have been substantially redesigned with help from Mercedes’ customer surveys which indicate that ML owners’ top priorities are fuel economy, manufacturer’s reputation, and safety.
Fuel economy, you say? Who would buy a 5,000-lb mid-size SUV if they’re looking for better fuel economy? Apparently, fuel economy and emissions reduction are the top two reasons why buyers purchase the ML 350 Bluetec diesel model, which represents an astounding 80 per cent of ML-Class sales in Canada. The other major reasons cited are Mercedes-Benz’ reputation for quality and the safety of 4Matic all-wheel drive and all the other safety systems that come with the ML-Class.
With 240 hp and 455 lb.-ft. of torque, the new 3.0-litre direct injection turbo-diesel V6 Bluetec engine, first seen in the 2012 S-Class, has 20 per cent more horsepower and 14 per cent more torque than the current 3.0-litre Bluetec turbo-diesel. Official city/highway fuel consumption numbers haven’t been announced, but in Europe, where the new ML 350 Bluetec comes with a standard stop/start idle system, fuel economy has reportedly been improved by an amazing 24 per cent. For reasons of certification for North America (which may be another term for ‘red tape’), the stop/start system will not be available here in 2012.
The current ML 350 Bluetec is advertised at 11.1 city/8.0 hwy, so we can expect at least a ten per cent improvement. During my four-hour test drive over secondary roads in the scenic state of Montana, U.S.A., at speeds often exceeding 100 km/h, I was seeing an average of 23.5 US mpg (10 L/100 km) displayed on my onboard fuel consumption readout.
According to Mercedes’ surveys, ML 350 Bluetec owners are genuinely concerned about C02 emissions, so they will be happy to know that this new diesel engine is now the cleanest diesel engine on the market, according to the company. A catalytic converter and a tank of “AdBlue” urea fluid injected into the exhaust system keeps nitrogen oxides at bay while the engine’s greater efficiency and fuel economy helps lower greenhouse gases. There’s also a particulate filter to screen out diesel particulate matter.
With more horsepower and torque and an 80-kilogram reduction in its curb weight, there should be a significant improvement in the current ML 350 Bluetec’s 0 to 100 km/h time of 8.6 seconds. I found its prodigious 455 foot-pounds of torque, which is available at just 1,600 r.p.m., very satisfying when accelerating from rest, or when passing. And this diesel engine is surprisingly quiet. It’s only when it’s idling with the windows down that you notice the familiar distant ‘clatter’ of the diesel engine.
M-Class buyers in Europe can also get a 2.5-litre turbo-diesel, the first four-cylinder diesel engine available in the M-Class, that sips just 6.0 L/100 km in the European drive cycle with the stop/start system. Now, wouldn’t this be attractive to Canadian diesel buyers too?
The third-generation 3.5-litre gasoline V6, recently introduced in the 2012 SLK 350 sports car, offers 13 per cent more horsepower (302) than its predecessor and six per cent more torque (273 lb.-ft.) and a reported 10 per cent improvement in fuel economy as well as reduced CO2 emissions.
As well, improvements to the ML 350’s standard 7G-tronic seven-speed automatic transmission are responsible for some fuel economy gains: new gearing contributes to better fuel economy and it offers faster, smoother gear changes. On the freeway in seventh gear, I recorded an engine speed of 2,500 rpm at a steady 100 km/h.
The six-cylinder ML 350 models will be followed by the V8-powered ML 550 and ML 63 AMG models next year… but it’s not likely these ML buyers will be looking for better fuel economy.
Though improved fuel economy and power are a highlight of the new ML-Class, I was more impressed with its improved handling, ride and steering. The new ML 350 is more nimble in the twisties with flatter, more controlled handling and less body lean. An adaptive damping system with ‘Normal’ and ‘Sport’ suspension modes is available by pressing a button on the console. I didn’t sense much difference between the two, but preferred the Sport mode for its slightly firmer feel when cornering at speed.
The new speed-sensitive electro-hydraulic steering is well weighted and responsive at highway speeds while easy to manage when parking. A fairly tight turning circle contributes to its manoevrability.
The 4Matic all-wheel drive system, which is standard on all ML models, is virtually invisible when driving on dry pavement, sending about 60 per cent of the engine’s torque to the rear wheels. The system monitors each wheel for slippage and brakes each individual wheel when necessary to send power to the wheels with more grip.
It should be noted that the 2012 ML 350’s towing capacity, both gas and diesel, is an impressive 3,500 kg (7,716 lbs), up from 3,265 kg (7,198 lbs) in 2011.
The 2012 ML-Class’ new bodystyle, common to both gasoline and diesel models, features sportier AMG bodywork as standard equipment in Canada. This includes 19-inch twin five-spoke alloy wheels, more aggressive front and rear bumpers and side sills, LED daytime running lights and LED taillights, and generally a chunkier, bolder look. Unfortunately, there were no AMG-clad vehicles available at the international media introduction for the ML in Montana, so I wasn’t able to compare its appearance with the standard model. But as a general rule, I don’t think SUVs should be dressed up to look like sports cars.
Size-wise, the new M-Class is longer by 23 mm, wider by 17 mm (including mirrors), lower by 19 mm, with the same wheelbase as before (2915 mm (114.8 in). There is more front and rear elbow room in the cabin, and though the roof is lower, there is plenty of headroom and legroom, front and rear. However, the cargo area is smaller, though not small (690 litres vs 833 litres), expanding to 2,010 litres with both rear seatbacks folded down. A rear privacy cover is standard.
The redesigned instrument panel features a wider centre console with metal trim, new wood trim on the dash, a recessed screen that is brighter and easier to navigate, redesigned audio and navigation controls, a Comand control dial on the lower console for navigating the various screen menus, new covered cupholders, and twin-door centre armrest. The turn signal and cruise control stalks have switched places: the turn signal is now higher up where Canadians normally expect it to be.
Good news for consumers is that 2012 ML manufacturer’s suggested retail prices have dropped by about seven per cent over 2011 MSRPs. The 2012 ML 350 4MATIC will start at $57,900, down from $62,400 in 2011. The 2012 ML 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC has a base price of $59,400, down from its 2011 MSRP of $63,900. Freight charges and taxes are extra.
Standard equipment in the 2012 ML 350 will includes Mercedes’ ‘Artico’ simulated leather upholstery, automatic climate control, heated steering wheel, heated front seats, memory power front seats with power lumbar support on the driver’s seat, power tilt and telescopic steering wheel, a power glass sunroof, rear parking sensors, Sirius satellite radio, Bluetooth phone and MP3 integration, power folding mirrors.
Option packages will include a Premium Package that includes a Comand navigation with DVD changer, Harman/kardon LOGIC7 surround sound system, rear-view camera, Panoramic Sunroof, Media Interface, heated rear seats, keyless ignition, and power rear hatch door.
An optional Sport Package will include the Airmatic air suspension with adaptive damping system, and AMG 20-inch 5-spoke wheels and tires.
A Leather Package will offer leather upholstery, and an ‘Artico’ simulated leather dashboard.
An Advanced Driving Assistance Package includes Distronic Plus radar cruise control, Active Blind Spot Assist, and Active Lane Keeping Assist. Or you can opt for the Driving Assistance Package which includes Passive Blind Spot Assist and Passive Lane Keeping Assist.
There’s also a Bi-xenon headlamps package with swivelling HID headlights, headlight washers, Adaptive Highbeam Assist and a Lighting Package.
Individual options include a wood/leather steering wheel, TeleAid emergency calling system, heated and cooled front seats, trailer hitch, aluminum running boards, rear seat entertainment system, Easy-Pack extendable cargo holder, and a 115v power socket.
Coming next year in the V8 models is an optional Dynamic Handling with Active Curve control system with computer controlled anti-roll bars. As well, an Off-Road Package with six terrain modes will be available in 2012.
The 2012 ML 350 Bluetec and ML 350 are built in Tuscaloosa, Alabama.
