Mercedes ML 350 BlueTec 258 hp test drive (Exterior design, interior and finishes)

We continue with the test of the Mercedes ML, this premium SUV with good off-road capabilities, which we have tested with the most powerful diesel engine available in the range, namely the ML 350 BlueTec with 258 CV. Everything about the engine, performance, handling and consumption of this six-cylinder powerplant was analysed in the first part of the test.

The handling on the road is surprising of the new generation, as are its good off-road capabilities, the latter being a characteristic in decline in a segment where models increasingly aspire to leave the asphalt very little. Today we continue with the second part of the test, where we cover the design of the third generation of the ML.

Exterior design

The third generation of the Mercedes ML arrives with a renewed exterior design; it marks a step towards sportiness and at the same time gives the car a modern touch that is less conservative than the last two generations. The most notable features are the lines marked in the design, both in its imposing front (where the contribution of the AMG Sport Package is evident) and at the rear, where the large light clusters stand out.

At the front, it is worth noting that the fog lights disappear to make way for LED daytime running lights; the larger bumpers and the lower chrome trim are elements of the AMG Package. The design is completed by the bi-xenon headlights with cornering function linked to the steering and excellent lighting.

On the side profile the 19-inch AMG alloy wheels stand out, with 255/55 R19 dimensions more suited to the road than to the countryside. Meanwhile, the rear stands out for its large lamps and the chrome lower section with the sporty look of the AMG Package.

Although its lines have been refined, it has not lost its robustness and it remains the centre of many glances when we take it out onto the street. However, if we are going to take it off the road, it is better not to opt for the AMG Package or to consider the standard wheels, which have a taller sidewall and allow greater freedom off the asphalt.

Interior design, habitability and finishes

Two features stand out in the interior: the first is the space; it is a large car, available only in a five-seat configuration, but at least the space is abundant and the feeling is one of comfort. The other standout feature is the quality, both in materials and finishes; you can tell which segment it belongs to, and it is hard to find any finish that feels out of place.

The dashboard has a rather traditional design, with dark colours (AMG Package), although wood or other material inserts can optionally be fitted. Although it is not fully upholstered in leather (an extra), the material covering it is high quality and pleasant to the touch.

The driving position is high, with large seats that hold the body very well. The adjustment is electric, but there is no memory (which is optional) and they are not heated as standard.

In the rear seats there is more than enough room for the feet and for three adults to travel comfortably, both in terms of headroom and width. It has an independent rear climate control with air vents, but the climate control is another extra.

The colour instrument display stands out for the amount of information it offers the driver. The Mercedes ML is, in general terms, a very spacious car, a pity that it does not offer seven seats even as an option, forcing you to move up to the Mercedes GL.

Storage spaces and boot

The boot has a good capacity, with its 690 litres standing out. If we need more space, simply folding down the rear seats gives a total capacity of 2010 litres. The quality of the finishes is surprising, even in the boot, which is fully upholstered.

As for the storage spaces, the door pockets are generous, as is the main glovebox, while in the centre console, since there is no room for the gear lever (which is in the American position), there is a large space where the smoker’s pack with the ashtray goes; to this we must add the central storage compartment typical of the Mercedes models.

In the third part of the test we will review the equipment, from the standard safety elements to the optional systems fitted to our test unit. We will also bring the test to a close with the prices and the overall assessment of this Mercedes ML.

Photos | R.R. and test team