2009 Mercedes Benz ML320 BlueTEC
By: Juan G. Robbin
This is not your father’s diesel
Mercedes-Benz ML320 BlueTEC (2009)
Mention diesel power for a passenger car and you will get all kinds of negative reactions. It’s loud, it vibrates, it smokes out the tail pipe, it smells bad and there is no convenient place to get diesel fuel.
After spending time with the 50 state-legal Mercedes-Benz ML320 BlueTEC, I can tell you that current diesel technology is light years from what was experienced back in the 1980’s. The Mercedes-Benz ML320 BlueTEC is one best all around vehicles I have driven in a long time. But before we get into the vehicle details, let’s bust some of the diesel myths using the ML320 BlueTEC as an example.
It’s loud: The ML320 BlueTEC is indiscernibly louder than its gas power equivalent with only a slight hint of diesel valve clatter.
It smokes and smells bad: Even under hard acceleration, the ML320 BlueTEC showed no smoke out the tail pipes or gave off any annoying diesel fumes.
It vibrates: Throughout the whole power band there was no noticeable vibration from the engine. In fact, we found the ML320 BlueTEC to be as smooth as any gasoline powered car.
Convenience of diesel fuel: There is a growing number of fuel stations carrying diesel fuel. Even better, use the Navi onboard navigation system and it will indicate what stations carry diesel. Of course, diesel is available in almost all highway rest stop/service stations throughout the country.
So, what benefits do you get with a diesel engine as compared to a gasoline equivalent? Start off with at least a 20% improvement in fuel economy. Then there is tremendous low-end torque during acceleration. Lastly, longer engine lifespan. It’s not uncommon to see 300,000 miles before requiring a major engine rebuilt on some car diesel engines.
The ML320 BlueTEC is smooth, powerful, quiet and capable. I found it to be an excellent all around vehicle for use as part of any lifestyle. The controls, buttons, switches and appointments are typical, current generation Mercedes-Benz. We liked the improved quality feel of the switchgear and buttons. However, there is a multi-function display for sound and navigation can be a bit confusing and slow to respond to some of the commands. Seats are superb all around, all around visibility is commanding, and there is good room through the ML for passengers and cargo.
Driving the ML320 BlueTEC is a joy. We found the power band and response to be exactly as needed in any road environment. Highway cruising is smooth, quiet and with plenty of power at any speed. Steering and brakes felt direct and responsive, this is good news! As we’ve noticed, these two items in past Mercedes-Benz vehicles tended to be vague and disconnected with the driver. We are glad to see Mercedes-Benz creating more of a connection between the driver and the car’s feedback.
Mercedes-Benz is a world leader in automobile diesel technology. The 2009 ML320 BlueTEC is definitely worth a look at if you are shopping for a luxury mid-size SUV with excellent economy and longevity.
The Essentials
MSRP: $48,600.00 (As tested): $58,885.00
Fuel Economy: (Observed): 24.5 MPG
Engine: V6, 3.0 liter, 210 HP
Popular options: Adaptive Damping System (ADS-II), Rear seat entertainment, P01 Package includes: GPS Nav, rear view cam, 40GB hard drive, HD/Sirius Radio, Harman-Kardon upgraded sound system.
Visit: www.mbusa.com