Mercedes-Benz M-Class (2005 - 2011) ML320 CDI SE 5d Tip Auto Owner Review

This is my tenth Mercedes and my third ML, the previous two were the older shaped petrol model. I spent ages trying to decide about this car as the styling left me cold and I was tempted by a RR or RR sport. However eventually let head rule heart and bought one and gee I'm glad I did. I've had a two V8 S class mercs and a CL and trust me you don't give up much in the comfort stakes: the ML is quiet, smooth and luxurious with the added benefit of great visibility, cavernous loading space, 4 wheel drive and - oh yes - 40 mpg on a steady run. The heavy stereo system knocks spots of my mates new Jag F pace and with a £12 gadget from Amazon plays my iphone via bluetooth, seamlessly. It accelerates very swiftly - though it's no GTi and leans on corners but goes round them cleanly with no drama and minimal understeer. Not a patch on the older model off road (and mine doesn't have low range or air suspension - lots of things to go wrong with Airmatic) but for most delivery, towing, muddy field, horse box type duties it is perfectly capable. Most surprising of all though is this, it's a great car to drive and even though I have a CLK, Audi A4 sport and a motorbike on the drive it's the ML that gets used 9/10 occasions. Merc quality is nearly back to their 1980's best - It's 13 years old with over 150,000 miles on but most people think it's 'nearly new' when they go in it, no interior wear or tear, no creaks, no rattles. Glad I got the SE and not the more common Sport (which has a harder ride and less leather and wood inside). My only slight regret is I didn't find one with a sunroof. I've even grown to admire the styling, which has aged well and still looks bang up to date.