Mercedes-Benz ML 350 CDI: Road Test

Now in its third generation avatar, the all new 2012 ML has been transformed into a formidable package boasting of upgrades and improvements in just about every department. While its predecessor did face criticism for niggling quality related issues, Mercedes-Benz has obviously not taken the feedback lightly and the new luxury SUV is a testament to the quintessential build that one has come to expect from the three point star.

Exteriors: Striking, big and aggressive

To start with, the new ML 350 comes with higher tensile steel for added strength and reduced weight. The vehicle is longer, wider and slightly lower (ride height is electronically controlled and the suspension can be raised at a click of a button for off roading applications) than its predecessor, however the distinct design of the ML has been retained with small changes to profile lines, headlights, a flatter roofline to reduce the coefficient of drag and an all new front grille, which gives it an aggressive stance and looks that are worth drooling over. Having said that, its silhouette hasn’t changed and therefore you won’t confuse it for anything but an ML.

Interiors: Airy, plush and well appointed

The interiors on the ML 350 have been spruced up to offer a finer finish that exudes a sense of solid build quality. The cabin has been designed to pamper your senses and most materials feel expensive. The airy interiors imbibe a plush up market feel even for the second row passengers and the well contoured front seats also offer a commanding view leaving you feeling as though you command the road, not just drive on it. The only grouse I had with the interiors was the use of the faux-wood on the dash as the texture shouldn’t have been as plastic to the touch.

In terms of gizmos and gadgets, the ML 350 does come with a fair share of devices including the, ECO start/stop function, reversing camera, THERMOTRONIC Auto Climate Control, media interface, memory seats and an electric sunroof.

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Performance and Safety: Powerful, economical and safe

Powering the new ML350 is a 2987cc direct injected V6 diesel which is similar to the outgoing engine albeit the new engine now offers more grunt in all respects. It’s a refined and silent mill that offers 258.33PS of power at 3600rpm and an impressive torque of 620Nm between 1600-2400rpm, which allows you to power this SUV from standstill to 100km/h in just 8.3 seconds and attain a top speed of 221km/h (as tested). Mated to a 7Gtronic Plus transmission, these figures translate to some fantastic driving dynamics on tarmac and even off it! In terms of fuel consumption, the new ML 350 boasts of a 22 per cent reduction as compared to its predecessor.

In terms of safety, the ML 350 is second to none. Standard equipment includes nine airbags, Attention Assist, Blind Spot Assist, Lane Departure Warning System, and of course there is the ABS, EBD, ESP and a host of electronic systems that ensure that the vehicle remains in control at all times. 

Ride and Handling: Composed and capable

One of the first things that you realize after a few minutes behind the wheel of the ML 350 is its commendable ride quality. It’s an improvement over its predecessor and while a slight amount of harshness does exist at low speeds, its mannerisms around town and on the highway will definitely cater to the luxurious ride you would expect. This composed nature can be credited to the AIRMATIC suspension which serves you well under a vast range of circumstances. Handling isn’t the big ML’s strongest point and its 2175 kilogram kerb weight does make its presence felt under fast cornering. Having said that, the steering response is rather decent and as a complete package, the ML 350 doesn’t disappoint.

Take it off the tarmac and tackle some rough terrain allows you to witness the wizardry of the 4Matic system. Incidentally the 4Matic system is available on 49 Mercedes-Benz models including a number of sedans as well and the beauty of this system is that it can be tailored to suit the operating profile of a particular vehicle. A prime example would be the 4Matic S Class is designed to offer superior road grip, while the 4Matic system in the ML is equipped to offer great on road dynamics as well as superior off roading technology.

While the car I was driving didn’t come fitted with the optional On & Off Road package, customers who wish for this enhanced appeal can opt for this package and further enjoy a host of innovative driving modes that optimize handling, drive control and safety. Controlled by the onboard COMAND system, the driver has the choice to choose between six different driving modes which include Winter, Sport and Towing options as well. Another feature that is part of this optional package is the Active Curve System (ACS) which allows for greater directional stability in tighter slippery corners through a special control algorithm that is programmed into the system.

Verdict

The ML 350, in its third avatar, has definitely taken the ML brand name up a notch. It’s well built, elite, comfortable and extremely capable. Adding to its credentials is its drive quality which isn’t the most engaging but still comes across as more dynamic than its predecessor. A complete throwback to the solid tank like build quality that Mercedes-Benz is known for, the ML is an impressive package that comes at a rather decent price point and is worth considering if you happen to be in the market for a luxury SUV…and if you have the extra moolah, do opt for the stellar On & Off Road package, it will change you and your ML forever!