M-Class (W164) First Drive: 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML320 BlueTEC

[Merc1]

With all the buzz about climbing fuel prices, and how current buyers are looking for new ways to increase their efficiency, it looks like Mercedes-Benz may have found a way to give its SUV buyers the best of both worlds. The second-generation M-Class came out in 2005 and was considered a bit heavy for its size. The smallest engine offered at that point was the all-alloy 3.7L V-6, rated at 15 mpg in the city, and 18 mpg on the highway. 2009 models will do a bit better than that, offering several choices.
Motor Trend


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[Yaz]

Seen an R BlueTec the other day.... it had PA plates though. I have yet to see a CDI or BlueTec registered in NY.

 

[tennmb]

They are saying it's a new engine. It is not a new engine. The bluetec just relates to the exhaust treatment.

I checked out all of the upgrades to the ML yesterday. Nice. The new COMAND is much improved. No more clumsy CD changer in glovebox. No device to plug in for bluetooth. Ipod runs through the COMAND. They have an instructional DVD that you can watch on the COMAND unit.

Power Lumbar!!! It's a miracle.

The full leather is very distinct with new stiching. Now you can really tell the difference in the full leather and the fool leather.

Don't like the new standard wheel. It is from 2007 ML500 wheel.

I really wish they had changed the grill to look like the GL and GLK and put power domes on the hood, like the GL. That would have completed it.