I am starting the process of replacing my 2001 ML 320, which I have loved, and today was able to drive a few SUV's. I drove the ML 350, Range Rover Sport, Range Rover, Cayenne S, BMW X5, and Lexus GX.
First, my impression of the new ML, nothing earth shattering, but liked the way it handled and was comfortable on the inside. I was not a huge fan of the column shifter (I like to keep my hand on the shifter when I am driving), do people who have the new ML like/dislike this feature and how long did it take you to get used to it? The tester car that I drove had MB-Tex/Leather Insert seats, which did not seems as comfortable as my 01’s, are the full leather seats more comfortable? Also, the ML 350’s that have seen, appear to be leaning forward (the rear suspension seems to be higher than the rear). Has anyone else experienced this, my salesperson said it would go down over time, is there truth to this?
Of interesting note, when I was driving both the Range Rover, and RR Sport, the feeling in both steering wheel’s was very, very numb (the Lexus felt like a Porsche compared to it, felt way over-boosted, seems like Ford might have put their hands on this).
The tester car that I drove had MB-Tex/Leather Insert seats, which did not seems as comfortable as my 01’s, are the full leather seats more comfortable?
I don't like the new ML leather with its basketball-like texture. Tho old perforated soft leather was much nicer. Did you try the Alcantara (Appearance Package)--much nicer, IMO, at least in Charcoal.
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Also, the ML 350’s that have seen, appear to be leaning forward (the rear suspension seems to be higher than the rear). Has anyone else experienced this, my salesperson said it would go down over time, is there truth to this?
I did not get that impression--sure it's not just the strong character line that angles up toward the rear that gives you that impression? The rear will not "go down over time," or if it does some fraction of an inch, the front will equally. Also,l be sure to try the air suspension if you have not. All reports are that it is much better than the steel springs for ride and dynamic control.
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<B>Greg</B> Lake Oswego, Oregon, USA
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<B>2006 ML350</b> - Pewter/Charcoal Alcantara/Aluminum; Packages: Comfort, Lighting, Entertainment, Appearance, Airmatic, Sunroof; Options: Nav, Sirius, hitch, heated seats, power liftgate, roof rack; Mods: ML500 skid plates, ML63 20" wheels.
<B>2001 BMW M3 Coupe</B> (5/01 prod.) - Titanium/Cinnamon w/ many mods.
I picked up my ML500 with the Alcantera interior and indeed it is much nicer in appearance and comfort. This truck handles much nicer than the older "trucky" suspensions IMO. But then again, I am coming from an 02' CLK430.. [:)]
Obviously perception varies on the functionality of the steering column shift lever. I have been driving my 2006 ML500 for a month and thoroughly enjoy the shift lever on the steering column. It is nice not to have a stick protruding from the center column. If I want to change gears I do it like a Formula 1 driver from the steering column. Two beverage holders in place of the center column shifter is a worthwhile tradeoff for me!
Location: A large Midwestern state beginning with "I"
Posts: 18
RE: 06 Test Drive
mlx,
I might be a little bias, but I've had my '06 ML500 for 2 weeks and like everything about it except for the "touchy" brakes. I am being patient until they are broken in. I opted for the "premium" package to get the all leather, muli-contoured seats. Glad I did. They are very comfortable.It's a pricey option, but it includes the navigation system and will undoubtedly add to the resale value. Keep us posted on your choice.
Location: A large Midwestern state beginning with "I"
Posts: 18
RE: 06 Test Drive
mlx,
Oh, yea. Your hands belong on the steering wheel. If you need to hold onto something down there, those "rails" on each side of the cup holders work well. I've found my right hand resting there more than once. Later.
After growing up in Europe with a stick shift BMW, I had a hard time keeping my hands away from the shifter here is the US.
I found the column shifter in the Expedition to be too cumbersome and awkward and was sceptical when I read about the new ML.
Having driven it however, there is no comparison. There is nothing mechanical about it and it's very easy to use and get used to. I also look forward to the F1 type shifiting, although I would have liked the left-down, right-up mechanism, rather than having two buttons that do the same thing.
I test drove the '06 ML 500 at the MB event here in St Paul, MN. It had the airmatic suspension and handled very well.
I thought I'd like the F1 type manual shifter on the steering wheel but it was next to impossible to use on an autocross type course which had a lot of turns. You were turning right and left so fast that it was impossible to find the buttons when you wanted them.
You usually don't drive such a tight course so I'm sure it works better in normal driving.
It probably works great for F1 drivers as their steering movement, Lock to lock, is probably about 30 degrees each direction.
Vehicle was nice but MSRP was $63,000. It seems like everything is now an option. My loaded 2005 ML 500 listed at $51,000- makes it seem like a bargain.
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