2008 Mercedes Benz ML320
Diesel done right
Few would argue that our North American opinions about diesel power are rooted in the past, when noisy and smelly were synonymous; fortunately, there are some vehicles out there now, like Mercedes-Benz’s elegant M-Class SUV, that should bring us into the 21st century.
The M-Class lineup has a little (or, actually not-so little) something for everyone, with engines that range from this 3.0-litre diesel and a gasoline-fuelled 3.5-litre V6 to the fire-breathing 6.2-litre V8 that powers the AMG version; and, prices to match, with a near-$40,000 gap from top to bottom. All feature 4Matic permanent all-wheel drive and a seven-speed G-Tronic automatic transmission.
The diesel allure is multi-pronged, comprising better fuel economy coupled with fewer harmful emission, higher torque, and a longer cruising range (upwards of 900 km on a tank).
Its detractions are the aforementioned smell and ragged noises. While there is no unpleasant whiff that comes with the ML CDI, it is a bit on the noisy side. The diesel itself didn’t put me off much — it’s readily available at many fuelling stations, and the nastiness of the diesel pumps themselves even seems a bit less nasty than it used to.
Its fuel mileage was really excellent for a vehicle of its ilk, especially one with 215 hp and a hefty 398 lb.-ft. of torque: I averaged an even 10 L/100 km over more than 650 combined city/highway kilometres. Still, thanks to the days of diesel’s being cheaper than gas appearing to be firmly ensconced in the past, it cost me more than $100 to fill ’er up. You win some, you lose some, I guess.
There’s a moment’s waiting on warm-up when you start ‘er up but aside from that, there isn’t much to immediately tip you off that’s it’s a diesel engine. From inside the well insulated cabin, any clattery diesel sounds are muted, and there are no tell-tale puffs of black smoke wafting from the tailpipe.
Diesel technology also gives it hefty (when properly equipped) 5,000-lb. (2,268 kg) pulling power from a mere V6. Smart marketing gives it an entry price only $1,500 higher than the base 3.5-litre.
The diesel decision aside, it is an otherwise classic Benz: design is understated and clean with just a soupçon of athletic flare; impressive road manners and a heaping dose of technological wizardry.
Interior fit and finish are excellent, as are the upscale interiors that include just enough rich wood trim to offset all that black. Nothing about it is overly difficult, from the multi-function steering wheel and Comand nav system to the flexible cargo area increased by flipping the easy-to-fold-down 60/40 split rear seat. Equipped with a premium package that includes Parktronic and power tailgate, its bulk didn’t prevent its being manoeuvrable and practical for hauling a wide variety of gear.
The seven-speed automatic and high-torque engine are more than up to any traffic tasks, and the 4Matic all-wheel-drive system, although wasted in the city in July, would help keep it planted in rougher conditions: it’s a full-time system that sends torque to each wheel independently; an electronic traction system monitors wheels for slippage. Electronic stability control is standard across the lineup.
In addition to all that V8-worthy torque, acceleration is V8-worthy too. Benz says it’ll go from 0-100 km/h in 8.6 seconds, which on the road translates into confidence for passing and merging that many larger SUVs can’t match. Every need is immediately met by the sophisticated transmission, so you probably won’t need the rocker switches on the back of the steering wheel, but there they are.
The body feels tight, with not even the merest hint of a squeak or a rattle, and steering response surpassed my expectations for this kind of vehicle. It’s cliché to say so, but it really does handle quite car-like. There’s a little body roll, but curvy driving was both pleasurable and predictable. Braking felt a little mushy until it caught, then a little more sensitive than I would have predicted, but it was just a matter of becoming accustomed to it. Also a matter of becoming accustomed was the push-button “park” selection.
The standard equipment list is comprehensive: 7G-Tronic transmission; first aid kit; integrated garage door opener; leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob; power-adjustable heated front seats; TeleAid emergency calling system; tire pressure loss warning system; Comand with Harman Kardon Logic7 surround sound and MP3-compatible six-disc CD changer; dual front, front side and window curtain airbags; heated steering wheel; Sirius satellite radio and automatic climate control.
Now a decade old (the AMG and CDI incarnations were added last year, when the lineup was redesigned), the ML won the Automobile Journalists Association of Canada’s Canadian Car of the Year award upon its debut. Time has done nothing to diminish its appeal. The arrival of Bluetec diesel technology in next year’s model can only enhance it.
It remains a fine balance of performance, luxury and usefulness as a daily driver and family hauler.
Summary:
Strong Points
Weak Points
- - diesel technology put to good use
- - comfortable
- - practical for everyday life
- - expensive, and so is diesel
Editors Rating:
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