2009 Mercedes-Benz ML320 BlueTEC Detroit MI
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2009 Mercedes-Benz ML320 BlueTEC
November 19, 2009 By Brian Alexander, Road Test Editor
2009 Mercedes-Benz M-Class 
2009 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
DriverSide Overview
The clean diesels are coming from across the Atlantic, and with three models currently on sale in North America ( ML- , R- and GL-Class variants), Mercedes-Benz is at the front of the pack. While North Americans still aren’t used to the concept of diesel vehicles, drastically lower CO2 emissions, high fuel economy potential and an increasingly stringent foreign fuel market all but point to diesel as the short-term savior of personal transportation. So basically, get used to it. But there is really not that much to get used to, because as long as you don’t look at the sub-5,000 rpm redline on the tachometer, it can be hard to tell the difference between a modern gasoline or diesel engine. Where you will notice the difference, however, is at the pumps. EPA estimates rate the ML320 BlueTEC at 24 mpg highway, a significant improvement over the gasoline V-6 version’s 20 mpg rating. But there’s a good chance that if you watch your driving habits, you’ll see even higher numbers than that. All this while enjoying just about the same amount of torque delivered by the 5.5-liter V-8-powered ML. Plus, we have yet to meet the soul who won’t go for a $900 alternative fuel tax credit.
What's to Like
The core appeal of the ML320 BlueTEC lies in its ability to deliver all the utility of a massive SUV with the gas bill of the common sedan. The interior is filled with class and swathe leather, feeling every bit Mercedes-Benz. Adaptable suspension gives the chassis taught, controlled feel when you want it, and a plush, cushy ride when you don’t. $900 in your pocket is a nice perk as well.
What's Not to Like
The shifter is operated by a tiny stalk on the steering wheel and is similar that of the S-Class and CL-Class, where we really like it. In an SUV, however, it feels miniscule and flimsy. We would prefer something more chunky and tactile in its place. Steering feel is minimal and the rack is overly light, making precise inputs difficult. Rear-seat entertainment system appears to have been pilfered from a shelf at Pep Boys.
The Drive:
DriverSide Driving Impressions
The ML320 BlueTEC hits the Mercedes-Benz SUV nail straight on the head, providing a soothingly quiet ride and ergonomic interface. Smooth revs are what the diesel is all about, unless you cross the 4,000 rpm line where it starts to churn a bit. Being as this is also where power starts to trail off noticeably, we doubt you will venture so “high” in the rev range very often. Anywhere above 2,000 rpm, the torque shove is decisively serious and moves the ML320’s mass with ease, if not vigor. The engine’s relaxed personality matches the chassis well, especially when the adjustable suspension is kept out of its taut sport mode. Steerin...