Currently, the automobile market simply cannot exist without SUVs. Almost every manufacturer strives to present at least several cars of this class. SUVs are in great demand and popularity among car enthusiasts, and have proven themselves when driving not only off-road and dirt, but also on the highway and even city streets. They have an impressive appearance and allow their owners to feel confident and proud on the road. There is a wide range of SUVs on the market from various manufacturers, and Mercedes-Benz is no exception. A test drive of the new SUV of the Stuttgart company Mercedes-Benz ML 350 was carried out, the results of which you will learn from this article.
The history of the legendary SUV
The Mercedes ML 350, photos of which show us a stately and beautiful car, appeared on the market a long time ago. But success did not come to him overnight. The car appeared on the European market in 1998, and then the model index was W163. In fact, it is difficult to talk about the success that came to this car. Initially, it seemed that such a Mercedes was unacceptable for Europeans, and for a person from Russia it had an insufficiently pretentious design.
The W163 was a failure. But giving up is not in the spirit of the world-famous Stuttgart concern. After such a failure, it was decided to completely remake the SUV. And then the updated Mercedes ML 350 W164, unlike the previous one, saw the light of day. It was an unambiguous success - the car was distinguished by excellent technical characteristics and an attractive, but strict design. Buyers began to actively buy this SUV. And this is understandable, because there are a lot of considerations regarding the purchase of such a car that speak in favor of this decision.
Exterior
Mercedes ML 350 White
The third generation ml350 was not innovative in terms of the car's appearance. Manufacturers decided not to change their traditions: the model is made in a classic, restrained style without any frills, which distinguishes it from cars of other brands.
Composure and calmness in appearance are what made this car a benchmark among business class cars.
The highlight of the whole series is that the 166 body seems to be slightly sloping back and ends with a spoiler. Also, the simply huge wheelbase remains an unchanged attribute of the crossover. The rear lights of the car became larger and moved to the wings. The radiator grille of the updated ml 350 bluetec 4matic is painted black and has also increased in size.
The running lights are now located in the chrome elements of the car. By the way, there are more chrome elements themselves - the manufacturers wanted to give the car impressiveness and power, which they did very well.
In addition, the manufacturers decided to add variety to the color scheme, where many different shades have now been added: from blue tanzanite to beige pearl.
It is also worth noting the overall dimensions of the ML 350 bluetec 4matic. The front bumper of the updated version has become simply huge. The body is made of durable aluminum and magnesium alloys.
Appearance and design
Mercedes-Benz cars cannot be confused with any other cars. They are completely special and look unique. They always stand out among the stream of other cars. The Mercedes ML 350, the photo of which clearly demonstrates a bright and spectacular car, is no exception. The Stuttgart manufacturer has not changed its principles - this model is made in a traditionally restrained, classic style, without any frills. There are no futuristic details that are found in many other cars.
A business class car - that's how it can be described. And this applies not only to appearance (however, more on that later). The design that distinguishes the Mercedes ML 350 has long become a truly universally recognized standard among business cars. It is not for nothing that many companies and firms buy this car as a personal vehicle. It was this perfectly calibrated moderation, composure and calmness in design that made this car so popular among business people.
Technical characteristics of Mercedes-Benz ML 350
Performance characteristics of the Mercedes ML 350 SUV
Maximum speed: 215 km/h Acceleration time to 100 km/h: 8.4 sec Fuel consumption per 100 km in the combined cycle: 11.5 l Gas tank volume: 95 l Curb vehicle weight: 2060 kg Permissible gross weight: 2830 kg Tire size: 235/65 R17 Wheel size: 7.5J x 17
Engine characteristics
Position: front, longitudinal Engine capacity: 3498 cm3 Engine power: 272 hp Torque: 350/2400 N*m Power system: Distributed injection Turbocharging: no Gas distribution mechanism: no Cylinder arrangement: V-shaped Number of cylinders: 6 Cylinder diameter: 92.9 mm Piston stroke: 86 mm Compression ratio: 10.7 Number of valves per cylinder: 4 Recommended fuel: AI-92
Brake system
Front brakes: Ventilated disc Rear brakes: Disc ABS: ABS
Steering
Steering type: Rack and pinion Power steering: Power steering
Transmission
Drive: Full constant Number of gears: automatic transmission - 7 Gear ratio of the main pair: 3.9
Suspension
Front suspension: Double wishbone Rear suspension: Shock absorber
Body
Body type: SUV Number of doors: 5 Number of seats: 5 Vehicle length: 4780 mm Vehicle width: Vehicle height 1815 mm Wheelbase : 2915 mm Front track: 1627 mm Rear track: 1629 mm Ground clearance (clearance): 200 mm Maximum trunk volume: 2050 l Minimum trunk volume: 551 l
Production
Year of manufacture: since 2005
Mercedes ML class
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Mersedes-Benz M-class is a family of off-road vehicles with a station wagon body and permanent all-wheel drive (W163 and W164 platform). The ML-Class model was first introduced in 1997. These cars, which were developed primarily for the North American market, are produced at the American DaimlerChrysler plant in Alabama. The M-Class combines the most important characteristics of an SUV, minivan, station wagon and passenger car, being a multi-purpose vehicle.
Mercedes-Benz is currently introducing the latest M-Class SUV. Equipped with the latest technology, such as three new powerful engines, a standard seven-speed automatic transmission 7-G TRONIC, an even more efficient dynamic force distribution system 4 ETS, air suspension and the PRE-SAFE safety system, the new ML will rightfully take the lead positions in the premium SUV market segment. Its design itself, with its play of shadows along the stylish contours of the body surfaces and strict lines, speaks of the strong character of the new Mercedes-Benz SUV. The body shape with a low windscreen, massive fenders and a side line rising towards the rear emphasizes sporty accents and is further enhanced by the proportions of the body: the new M-Class is 150 mm longer, now measuring 4,780 mm, 71 mm wider, now 1,911 mm , and 5 mm lower (1815 mm including rails). At the same time, the wheelbase increased by 95 mm, its size was 2915 mm. Three of the four engines installed in the new M-Class are new. They exceed the power and torque of their predecessor by more than 38 percent, and thanks to the latest transmission and better aerodynamics, fuel consumption is reduced by 10%. In terms of the interior, the new M-Class demonstrates the highest quality finishing, typical of all Mercedes-Benz vehicles, with new high-tech materials. Thanks to the increased dimensions of the car, there is much more space for all passengers and the driver. Thus, the distance from the back of the front seat to the dashboard has been increased by 15%, which is only a feature of expensive sedans, the legroom for rear passengers has also been increased by 35 mm and the distance at shoulder level has been increased by 32 mm.
Select a modification group to get a list of modifications included in it:
| Groups | body type | Year of release | |||
See also:
- accessories Mercedes ML
- spare parts Mercedes ML class
- tuning mercedes ML class
- Mercedes M class repair
- thresholds for Mercedes GL and ML class
- Model history
- 360° appearance and color scheme (W164)
- Interior view 360° (W164)
- Serial equipment (W164)
- dimensions
Helpful information:
Video Mercedes M-class:
Mercedes ML photo gallery:
Suspension
An SUV involves driving not only on city roads and highways, but also on rough country roads and even forest roads. Therefore, such cars have special requirements for the suspension, which the Mercedes-Benz ML 350 fully meets. The front and rear suspension of this car is independent pneumatic, with MacPherson struts, gas shock absorbers and anti-roll bars.
There is no need to talk about the stiffness of the shock absorbers, because this car provides the ability to manually adjust the stiffness of the shock absorbers for different driving styles. If you adjust the suspension for a soft and comfortable ride, the SUV does not behave very stable, which manifests itself in large rolls when turning and body swaying. If you set the suspension to sport mode, you immediately feel stiffness and increased cornering stability. The price for such qualities is that various bumps and holes are very felt by the driver and passengers, which reduces the level of comfort. Another positive aspect of the air suspension is the ability to manually adjust the ride height.
The maximum ground clearance level is 285 mm, but you won’t be able to drive at that height all the time. At a speed of 20 km/h, the suspension automatically lowers by 30 mm, and when reaching 70 km/h it drops to 202 mm. If the speed exceeds 90 km/h, the suspension will lower to the minimum mode, which does not exceed 180 mm, which increases aerodynamic properties. However, this is correct, because flying off-road at 100 km/h still won’t work.
In general, the suspension of the new Mercedes SUV can be called good. It provides high cornering stability in sport mode, high comfort and softness during normal driving, and the ability to manually adjust the ground clearance allows you to get out of the most difficult places.
Advantages and disadvantages
Advantages:
- Versatility . This SUV can be used as a professional, family (the interior and trunk are really huge, which is a must for family trips) and even a sports car
- Convenient travel . Car owners note that the interior provides maximum comfort, and drivers do not get tired even on a long route
- Small turning radius. This allows you to turn the car even on a small narrow road
- Mercedes ML is easy to drive and agile on the road
- Quality . German quality in the automotive market is undeniable. And this is one of the biggest reasons why Mercedes finds its buyer so easily.
- Environmental aspect . When fuel is burned, a minimal amount of harmful substances is released into the atmosphere
- Safety . Mercedes are truly reliable, and the Mercedes benz ml 350 once again proves this
- Wrong gear shift protection
Flaws:
- Expensive spare parts and maintenance . This is a problem with almost all Mercedes in Russia.
- Tax . Since this car has high power (from 200 horsepower), you need to pay for this pleasure regularly. The base rate for such an SUV is from 7.5 to 15
- Eats oil . For some owners of the Mercedes ML 350 Bluetooth, this has become a real problem. But, as already said, this is a mistaken opinion. For its size, the SUV is quite economical
Test drive Mercedes-Benz ML 350
The driving characteristics were tested by a Mercedes-Benz ML 350, equipped with a 3.5-liter six-cylinder V-shaped gasoline engine and a 7G-Tronic seven-speed automatic transmission. This engine produces 272 horsepower and you really feel it. Despite weighing more than two tons, this Mercedes starts off very quickly and accelerates to 100 km/h in just 8.4 seconds. This is a very good indicator for this class of car.
The gearbox is tuned for a comfortable and economical ride. In normal mode, the engine runs at about 1600 rpm. But as soon as you add a little gas, the revs increase sharply, the gears change very quickly and make you feel the full power of the engine. This gearbox is characterized not only by automatic shifting, but also by automatic adaptation to the driving style. For those who like a quiet ride, gears will be switched at lower revs, and for those who like to drive and get off the ground - at higher revs. However, if you change your driving style over time, the box will automatically adjust again. It is also possible to set an extreme gear, above which shifting will not occur. Moreover, you can choose any extreme one - from the first to the seventh.
Another useful feature is cruise control with speed limit. If you do not want to break the speed limit, simply set the speed limit, and when it is reached, the car simply will not accelerate any more.
All-wheel drive provides additional cross-country capabilities. At the same time, it is possible to connect or disconnect the rear axle both manually and automatically. Manual shifting is located on the center console, and automatic mode engages the rear axle via a two-speed transfer case in tight spots.
Additional comfort and ease of driving are provided by various assistance systems, such as traction control, stability control, automatic stabilization, hill descent assistance and others. On the highway, the Mercedes-Benz ML 350 runs very smoothly and quietly. Excellent sound insulation prevents engine sound from breaking into the cabin. Off-road the car feels at home. High ground clearance and all-wheel drive are great for getting out of holes and overcoming obstacles. Dirt and water are also not a hindrance for him.
“ML 350” is what people need
Why did the SUV immediately become popular? It's simple - the concern has corrected all the mistakes made when creating the W163 model. Indeed, the old version and the new are heaven and earth. After processing, the Mercedes ML 350 turned into a spacious family SUV that can be used as you please. It's truly versatile. Its interior is as comfortable as possible, and there is enough space inside for all passengers. Plus, it’s worth noting the impenetrable suspension, which has a potential of several million kilometers. Another advantage that is a necessity for almost every motorist is a comfortable and spacious trunk. And, of course, one cannot help but be attracted by the fact that in the process of creating this model, modern advanced technologies were used, due to which it was possible to make the car almost perfect.
Advantages:
- stylish and elegant design;
- good off-road qualities;
- low fuel consumption for this class
- possibility of changing the level of road clearance
- build quality
Flaws:
- weak filling in the basic configuration;
- The gearbox takes a long time to adapt to your driving style;
- high price;
