Mercedes ML 320 CDI
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FUEL ECONOMY:
21 / 27 MPG 11.2 / 8.71 L/100km
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BODY TYPE:
SUV
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TECHNOLOGY:
Diesel
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BASE MSRP:
$44,400
The Mercedes Benz ML 320 CDI is the brand’s mid-size diesel-powered sport utility vehicle, and perhaps one of the most economical people-movers in its class. It is also yet another example of why clean diesel technology is a good fit for America (though most Americans are not yet aware of this). More than any other automaker, Mercedes has been able to achieve the perfect balance of luxury and prestige with the green attributes of modern diesel power. For that reason, this CDI is the obvious choice over most gas-powered vehicles in its segment.
The key to the ML 320 CDI is a 3.0-liter common-rail direct injection (CDI) V6 turbo diesel engine. It produces a mediocre 215 horsepower, but like with all diesels, excels in torque, with a robust 398 pound-feet of low-end, axle-twisting pulling power. Towing, pulling, or digging out of harsh terrain are this SUV’s specialties (though most Benz owners tend to keep their vehicles on pavement). This ML’s torque also gives it an immense surge off the line, as well as strong passing ability.
The ML’s clean diesel powertrain features a particulate filter and runs on the ultra low-sulfur fuel available at gas pumps now. It is currenly 45-state legal, which means it not available in the fives states that have adopted California’s emission standards. In 2008, Mercedes will launch its urea-based Bluetec line of clean diesels in the ML, GL, and RL class SUVs. These vehicles will be 50-state legal.
On fuel economy, the ML diesel rates at 21 city/27 highway. The EPA has reported that it gets a combined estimate of 22 miles per gallon, but that appears to fall a bit short of what most drivers are experiencing. The majority of automotive testing sources are claiming 25-26 miles per gallon in real world driving.
In terms of ride and handling, the ML CDI is nimble on the turns and very smooth for the passengers. It is an excellent vehicle for commuting, carting the family, or running virtually any kind of errand, long distance or short. And build quality is exactly what would be expected from Mercedes Benz. The ML is a tightly-constructed, well-crafted vehicle made to deliver power, comfort, and space. There are few carmakers with this degree of product planning and technical proficiency.
A premium and capable SUV, the ML has always been a favorite among luxury-class buyers. Now that it offers a cleaner and more efficient diesel engine, this ute is unbeatable for its price, and for so many other reasons.
