Review

New Mercedes ML 350 CDI review, test drive

All-new ML has improved in every area to become competitive again. Read our comprehensive instrumented review to find out more.

Jun 15, 2012
RATING
9 / 10
DETAILS
16
photos
Prominent grille is more striking evolution of the previous car's
Big ML doesnt feel very agile when pushed hard. AMG-style vents on the bonnet are standard and add a sporty touch. Prominent grille is more striking evolution of the previous car's

The M-class comes across as a brilliantly engineered car with outstanding comfort, refinement and top-notch quality. With its larger dimensions, it now looks grown up and much more dynamic than its predecessor, and the cabin’s fit and finish are impeccable. The lack of a third row of seats and a slightly numb driving experience are the only real drawbacks of an otherwise hugely appealing SUV. The new M-class doesn’t compromise on Merc’s core values of a relaxed driving experience, rock-solid build quality and unflustered cruising ability. What’s really impressive, though, is the way Mercedes has blended old-world charm into a thoroughly modern package at a price that’s extremely competent, and that’s exactly what makes this new M-class stand out.

Overall Rating

9 / 10
Technical Specs >> << Fuel efficiency
See more about:  mercedes, mclass, review, mclass, x5, touraeg

New Mercedes ML 350 CDI review, test drive

notSet

Big ML doesnt feel very agile when pushed hard.
AMG-style vents on the bonnet are standard and add a sporty touch.
Prominent grille is more striking evolution of the previous car's
All-wheel drive is standard. You can opt for a special off-road package too.
Large front seats offer good lateral support. High driving position is spot-on.
Rear seats can be reclined and wide seat can accommodate three people quite easily.
Thanks to top-notch quality and tank-like build, the M-Class cabin looks and feels very expensive.
Despite the command system, there is a sea of buttons on the center console which are a bit confusing to use.
Rear passengers get dedicated climate control for better cooling.
The paddle shifters on the ML could have been more responsive.
Top-left switch sets ESP for off-roading. Top right is hill-descent control, bottom right raises the car.
Torquey 3.0-litre common-rail motor is powerful and extremely smooth
Luggage area is big and with the seats folded you get a huge 2010-litre loading bay.
Much anticipated family cars and the future of Indian motorsport in the May 2013 issue.
What's in this issue?

Most Read
Find a car review
Latest Car Reviews
New 2014 Bentley Flying Spur review, test drive

New 2014 Bentley Flying Spur review, test drive

1 day 1 hour ago
The new Bentley Flying Spur comes with a raft of updates to make it even ...
Mahindra e2o review, test drive and video

Mahindra e2o review, test drive and video

5 days ago
We comprehensively road test Mahindra's all-electric e2o
2013 Audi R8 V10 review, test drive

2013 Audi R8 V10 review, test drive

May 13, 2013
The R8 V10's track capabilities are well known, but just how well does the ...
Mahindra Thar (Fourth report)

Mahindra Thar (Fourth report)

May 7, 2013
Loads of upgrades to the Thar this time. A few issues as well.
Tata Nano LX 2012 (Third Report)

Tata Nano LX 2012 (Third Report)

May 7, 2013
For a car that costs as little as it does, the Nano has put up with ...
Latest News
Government approves quadricycles
Green signal for quadricycles but restricted to commercial use.
1 hour ago   3 pictures
SCOOP! New Bajaj Pulsar 375 flagship revealed
Biggest, fastest and most important Pulsar 375 ever breaks cover.
1 hour ago   4 pictures
Chevrolet to hike prices across line-up
Rising transportation costs and diesel prices make Chevrolet hike prices of ...
20 hours ago   1 picture
New Toyota Corolla to be unveiled on June 6
Next-gen Toyota Corolla to come with updated 1.8-litre petrol and 1.4-litre ...
1 day 1 hour ago   1 picture
New name for next Land Rover Freelander
Next Land Rover Freelander will join the extended-Discovery family.
1 day 20 hours ago   2 pictures
Autocar Magazine

Issue: 165 | May 2013

Much anticipated family cars and the future of Indian motorsport in the May 2013 issue.
Autocar Magazine
Latest Poll
What's the worst bit of bad driving according to you?
or View results
Cutting lanes
  43%
 
Driving between two lanes
  23%
 
Driving slowly in the fast lane.
  35%
TOTAL VOTES: 1656

Vote now
View previous Polls »