How good are they?
Discussion
I have a ML 270 CDI and it's been mechanically reliable apart from the odd minor electrical gremlin. However, the interior is horribly flimsy and bits fall off without much provocation. Running cost wise, it's ok on fuel although still pretty thirsty for a 2.7 diesel (petrol versions are very thirsty) and heavy on brakes and tyres, all of which is down to the weight. Not such a bad machine if you have large loads/lots of kids to cart around and don't want a people carrier. Just don't expect it to drive like a car!
loose cannon said:
expect the brakes to last beetween 9/12,000 miles
Crikey. We've got a 24k miler on the original tyres and brakes. Tyres have got about another 8k in them.
Like all large 4WD petrol consumption is poor (15 avg, 22 on a motorway run) so as already mentioned go for the diesel.
DAZ
>> Edited by dazren on Saturday 4th September 14:42
My parents have had a few of these despite my insistence they stick with saloons. Anyway!
The first one they had was rubbish. Decent engine but quality was crap.
They swapped that for a new one a few years ago (facelift model) which is actually very good. The interior is nice, the quality is there and the running costs are on par with anything else that size.
Definitely get one of the facelift ones if you're keen. I'm not sure what year these started but they can be distinguised by having indicator repeaters on the wing mirrors.
Driving them is weird though. Don't expect it to feel nimble!
Best of luck looking!
The first one they had was rubbish. Decent engine but quality was crap.
They swapped that for a new one a few years ago (facelift model) which is actually very good. The interior is nice, the quality is there and the running costs are on par with anything else that size.
Definitely get one of the facelift ones if you're keen. I'm not sure what year these started but they can be distinguised by having indicator repeaters on the wing mirrors.
Driving them is weird though. Don't expect it to feel nimble!
Best of luck looking!
Having researched the 4x4 market mainly for towing purposes I finally bought a facelifted 270 CDI June last year.
I have to say during my time with it I have been impressed with its reliability, comfort and build quality. Yes fuel consumption,handling and performance isn't great but then again it has the aerodynamics, weight and bulk of a house!
I too would recommend a face lifted model for improved build quality and design particularly with regard to the interior. I believe these started around October 2001.
Then speak to a Brabus dealer (County @ Cheltenham) and get the ML Brabus'd. As a minimum, go for the engine upgrade giving 25% more bhp and torque for approx £1400.
>> Edited by Spear_j on Monday 6th September 13:03
I have to say during my time with it I have been impressed with its reliability, comfort and build quality. Yes fuel consumption,handling and performance isn't great but then again it has the aerodynamics, weight and bulk of a house!
I too would recommend a face lifted model for improved build quality and design particularly with regard to the interior. I believe these started around October 2001.
Then speak to a Brabus dealer (County @ Cheltenham) and get the ML Brabus'd. As a minimum, go for the engine upgrade giving 25% more bhp and torque for approx £1400.
>> Edited by Spear_j on Monday 6th September 13:03
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