Mercedes Benz

3rd time is the charm

Juan G. Robbin
SLK350 (2012)

After two generations of the SLK, the just introduced 2012 model is by far, the best ever. Previous generations didn’t seem to have quite the panache or feel as engaging to drive as the all-new for 2012 SLK.

Of course, there is no doubt of the heritage of the 2012 SLK. There is a dramatic SLS inspired nose, as well as elegantly sculpted doors and rear deck, making the 2012 SLK the best looking version yet! The jewel-like adaptive headlights look perfect, so does the large Mercedes-Benz star, flanked by single, left and right air intake blades. Wheels are attractive, optional 18-inch AMG alloys, offering both an elegant yet aggressive look that fits the SLK nicely. The electrically operated folding hard-top, this time, with a smoked glass panorama roof is elegantly designed and flawlessly engineered. Trunk area is accessed through dual-hinged large hatch that offers a commodious trunk with the top up and as expected, a greatly reduced, but usable space when the top is stowed. Other hard top convertible vehicles seem to suffer from difficult to close trunk lids, yet the SLK offers a smooth, easy to close system.

Once inside, you instantly notice the bright and airy cabin, thanks in part, to the panorama roof as well as the thoughtful design. Controls, switches, and other accoutrements are exactly as once again expected from Mercedes-Benz, that is to say, of great quality. Navigation inputs as well as infotainment items are intuitive to use, offering a rotary dial to access different menus and features. The sport- seats are supportive yet comfortable for long journeys, offering the ingenious “Airscarf” neck-level heating system, which blows warm air from the headrest towards the neck of the driver and passenger, making nippy, top-down driving days more comfortable. The thick leather-wrapped steering wheel offers finger-tip commands for typical items, such as music, phone, cruise-control and data display. One inviting interior feature is the optional direct ambient lighting, offering red accented thin strands of light throughout the cabin, giving the SLK interior a touch of drama and warmth.

Starting the engine in an SLK is a delight, with its fast-whine starter and the throaty engine sound, the 302 HP 6 cylinder engine invigorates the senses. Gear selector is silky smooth, and once it’s in D you can let the fun begin. Throttle feedback is noticeably better than before, offering easy to modulate throttle as well as a progressive, yet perfectly balanced braking. Exhaust sound is sporty yet not overly so, giving the SLK, the often lost balance of luxury and performance. Feel like driving a bit more aggressively? Not a problem, the SLK delivers exactly what is expected from a roadster, thus giving the driver an enhanced experience both on back country roads as well as on any interstate. The 6 cylinder motor is eager to please, offering a command performance every time you ask for it, yet able to deliver respectable fuel economy under mixed city/highway driving conditions.

Years ago, my impression of some Mercedes-Benz models was one of vagueness, lack of road feel and dull driving dynamics. I’m happy to say that current generation M-B vehicles have completely changed from that. The current generation vehicles are responsive, dynamically connected to the road and whimsically interesting to drive, bravo Mercedes-Benz!

The 2012 SLK, the 3rd time is definitely the charm!

The Essentials:

MSRP: $54,800.00
MSRP (As tested): $67,195.00
Fuel Economy (Observed):
20.2 MPG
Engine: 3.5 liter, 6 Cylinder, 302 HP
Popular Options: Premium 1 Package (Airscarf, media interface, Sirius, premium sound, heated seats
etc.) Sport Package: (Sport body styling, 18 inch AMG wheels, direct ambient lighting)
visit: www.mbusa.com

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

2008 Mercedes Benz ML550

By: Juan G. Robbin

A balanced blend of performance and panache!
Mercedes-Benz ML550 (2008)

Mercedes-Benz has perfectly captured the current automotive design trend in the bulls-eye with its mix of angular, rounded and soft curves, thus creating a new, contemporary design that exudes presence. The current ML series is the second generation of the successful Mercedes-Benz mid-sized SUV. With its modern look as well as descent fuel economy for a V8, the ML550 is a good option if you must have 8 cylinder power in a size smaller than a full sized SUV.

The size of the ML is very manageable, able to fit into a standard garage, and with a turning radius that makes everyone else envious, this is an SUV that fits well with any suburban lifestyle. Instrument dash layout is exquisite: There are large, simple gauges, a well lit instrument panel and a center multi-function display that manages the sound system, integrated phone and GPS navigation system.

Mercedes-Benz has done a noticeable effort in improving the way materials feel to the touch. Up until recently, materials felt disappointingly cheap, now they feel up to the task in this luxury SUV. The seats are supportive and very comfortable, with material that you know will last for many years. The doors close with that famous Mercedes-Benz “thunk!” That’s a sound that one never forgets.

As you enter the car and get comfortable, one thing that you instantly notice is the gearshift is on the steering column. Simply press the brake, touch the stalk in an upward direction to engage reverse and downward to engage drive. Pressing the tip of the stalk selects park accompanied by a soft audible tone confirming the gear is in park. There are finger tip controls behind the steering wheel for manual, “tiptronic” type shifting if you wish. The center console and the edges on top of the door panels are finished in sumptuous wood. Nice touch without an over the top feel.

Driving the ML550 is a soothing experience: quiet, smooth, stable and balanced. Highway cruising felt stable and very comfortable. Shifts from the seven speed automatic transmission are incredibly smooth, and precise, with no hunting for gears, nor transmission mix up from sudden gas pedal movement as in other cars tested. Sound system, which included Sirius Satellite radio and onboard computer functions work right from the steering wheel, with navigation functions working off the center console display.

Rear seats have good room, but not overly so. There are two 12 volt plugs in the center console and a retractable arm rest with storage. There is an option set or front headrest DVD video screens that are perfect for long trips with the family. Our test car did not have the optional but small third row of seats, thus making the rear cargo space huge.

Small details noticeable during the ML550’s stay with us include: useless side running-boards that get in the way and dirty your pant legs when you are exciting the vehicle. The steep-angle design of the A pillar, thus making it a bit uncomfortable to get in the front seats, especially if you are a tall person. Lastly, the navigation and sound systems that are not intuitive, although better than the previous generation.

The Mercedes-Benz ML550, a luxury mid-sized SUV that offers descent fuel economy, together with excellent comfort, design and style.

The Essentials

MSRP: $52,400.00 MSRP (As Tested): $67,030.00
Fuel Economy: (Observed): 17.9 MPG
Engine: 5.5 liter, V8, 382 HP
Popular Options: Premium Package, rear seat entertainment, AMG sports package.
Visit: www.mbusa.com

2007 Mercedes benz CLK550 Cabriolet

By: Juan G. Robbin
Mercedes-Benz Mid-Sized Wonder
Mercedes-Benz CLK550 Convertible (2007)

The 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK550 is a refined convertible coupe that fits any occasion and most any lifestyle. Use it as a daily driver or on weekends with the top down, anyway you use the CLK550 convertible, it will be a nice way to move around.

The interior and finish is typical current generation Mercedes-Benz, that is to say: Updated, clean and with a noticeable improvement on the quality of the materials used.

Driving the CLK550 convertible is a true delight. There is plenty of power from the large V8, yet fuel consumption is fairly good for this size engine. Steering feel, feedback, seat position and visibility create a very comfortable environment for the driver. As this is a soft top convertible, we were pleasantly surprised by the minimal wind and road noise through the fabric top. The brakes have a more direct feel as compared to previous Mercedes-Benz models and the suspension feels more sporty yet comfortable under all driving conditions.

The rear seat is comfortable yet snug, with the top up it does feel a bit dark and isolated due to the larger fabric area on the rear, behind-the-window side coverings. Trunk size is fair, but due to the convertible top mechanism and storage, there is not a lot of deep space within. Pack appropriately and use soft sided luggage in order to maximize all available areas.

The steering wheel has a fingertip activated information system displayed within the center instrument cluster that gives you excellent detailed information such as current trip averages, fuel mileage, distance to empty, engine oil pressure, temperature and battery charge rate.

There is an almost indescribable feeling of well being and satisfaction as you drive the CLK550 convertible. How the engineering and design blends together to create this unique feeling is something that few car makers can achieve, bravo Mercedes-Benz !

The Essentials

Base MSRP: $62,900.00 As tested: $72,875.00
Fuel consumption (observed): 19 MPG
Engine: 5 liter V8 with 382 HP
Popular options: DVD Navigation, Keyless go, Premium Pkg. Sport Suspension.
Visit: www.mbusa.com

2007 Mercedes Benz S 65 AMG

By: Juan G. Robbin

Easy to summarize: Spectacular!
Mercedes-Benz S 65 AMG (2007)

That’s the best way to describe Mercedes-Benz latest top of the line S Class; The S 65 AMG. Introduced in early 2006, the S 65 AMG has raised the technology bar for high-performance production built passenger sedans to a new zenith.

Hallmark Mercedes elegance coupled with distinctive sportiness – That’s the first impression you get from the new S 65 AMG. The new AMG body styling is combined superbly with the flared wheel arches, providing a markedly poised and assured appearance. The redesigned AMG styled front apron with enlarged air intakes adds an athletic touch to the S 65. The side skirts take up the line of the AMG front apron and emphasize the sporty feel of the side view; all reinforced through the “V12 biturbo” lettering on the front wings and “S 65” on the trunk lid.

AMG is the high performance division of Mercedes-Benz. The transformation begins during assembly and includes a larger engine, sportier interior trim and seats, larger wheels, brakes, suspension, body trim, exhaust and more.

Sport car aficionados that dismiss a four door sedan as simply too big should take notice. The S 65 is a sports car disguised as a sedan. Performance is breathtaking; not only in acceleration but also in cornering thanks to its active body roll suspension system. Brakes are the world’s first adaptive composite brakes that will decelerate this car from triple digits to naught in just mere seconds.

Inside you are greeted by one of the most pleasant and comfortable interiors of any passenger car in production today. There is nothing far out or over the top in the interior yet there is total quality in everything you see, touch and hear. Sitting in the S 65 you notice the superb “Exclusive PASSION” seats; the leather is supple and pleasing to touch. Every area of the seats is electronically controlled, down to the firmness and speed of the built in massage system. Rear seats are individually powered and can be reclined to a very comfortable angle for long trips. There is a rear moon roof with an electric retracting shade that takes up most of the roof space, giving a very bright and airy feel to the interior. There is a center mounted finger-tip actuated multi-function control that manages every aspect of the car, including lighting, music, ventilation, seat bolsters, and navigation. Even though our test car did not come with an operator’s manual, we where able to figure out most functions intuitively. Technology details abound, such as the night vision assist system that displays on the dash, great when the weather turns sour or you are in a dark, back country road. Satellite radio, rear backup camera and sensors, distronic adaptive cruise control, rear window sunshades and more.

Lets drive the S 65, shall we ?

Press the round metal starter button and you instantly hear the high speed whine of the starter motor so typical of a 12 cylinder motor, followed by the firing of the engine; sweet! Select “D” on the column shifter and you instantly notice as if the car’s power is coming from a turbine engine. There is no transmission thump, bump or noise, just smooth, flowing power. We had the chance to do some high speed runs with the S 65 and we where blown away. The power and performance is captivating; transforming us into a magic carpet ride when ever we pressed the accelerator. I kept on repeating over and over, how can a car this size go this FAST ? The acceleration is linear, silky smooth and almost unending. I could not help but think, if I owned this car, I would have to sign over my paycheck every month to a lawyer in order to take care of the speeding tickets I would surely get on a regular basis.

There is a feeling that is hard to describe when driving a car like this. It simply makes you feel good all over. It’s the result of an excellent recipe that mixes engineering, experience, quality and dedication, making the S 65 almost flawless. The price is what one would pay for a Key Biscayne condo 5 years ago, is it worth it ? You bet !

The Mercedes-Benz S 65 AMG, you get what you pay for !

The Essentials

MSRP: $182,575.00 (as tested): $189,525.00
Fuel Consumption: (observed): 17 MPG
Engine: 12 cylinder biturbo, 6.0 liter 612 HP
Adaptive composite brakes
Active body roll suspension
Visit: www.mbusa.com