FOUR SEASONS ACVICUI
I999MERCEDES-BENZ ML320
FIRST OF
TWO
REVIEWS
n its second model year of sport-utility-vehicle compe­
I
tition, the M Class has created an elevated status tor
itself. The Alabama born and bred, steelframed, four-
wheeler has won accolades since its 1998 introduction,
mainly because of its lower bumper-to-bumper stance,
which may cause less damage to some passenger cars in certain
collisions when compared with other SUVs that sit higher.
The African Americans On Wheels D.C. staff was eager to get
behind the wheel of this luxury SUV. In December, the popular
Mercedes-Benz ML320 joined our long-term test fleet for six
months, just in time for winter weather testing.
W ith a ride and handling that are a breeze, driving the
ML320 is an exercise in comfort. Getting around the city is a
cinch. Its 111-inch wheelbase allows you to squeeze into tight
parking spots, unlike some SUVs. 1 he steering is accurate, hut
not too responsive when returning to its center point. A little
extra arm work is necessary.
Built on a unique platform that combines the best of a car
and a truck, the M-Class is rather quick for 4,200 pounds of
weight. Getting a jump on traffic from a dead stop was never a
problem. The new 3.2-liter, fuel-injected V6 engine is coupled
with a five-speed automatic transmission and pumps out 215
horsepower. If that’s not enough for you, try the V8 powered
ML430. If awesome power and wicked speed are what you
want, then look for the high-performance 340-horsepower
ML55.
Now back to the basics. The interior has a dull, knobby
stereo console, and the circular temperature gauges are simple-
enough for a child to operate. The option package on our model
includes a six-disc CD player (which wasn't installed) and a pre­
mium audio system.
Despite the missing CD changer, creature comforts include
eight-position, heated leather seats, soft leather steering wheel,
moonroof and trip computer. We also liked the large pockets
imbedded in all four doors and the purse compartment hidden
under the passenger's seat.
The ML320 is a vehicle for anyone’s favorite pastime, be it
28
AFRICAN AMERICANS O N WHEELS
camping, off-roading or city cruising. We never went off-road to
experience its independent suspension, except on our stone-
filled driveway. In the rain we appreciated its all-time four-
wheel-drive system which triggers the anti-lock braking system
and traction control. Most four-wheel drive systems use locking
differentials.
There is a thin line between love and hate when it comes to
the exterior design — you either like it or you dont. A cross
between minivan and station wagon, the ruby, metallic-colored
320 is streamlined with gray trimmings, wraparound headlights,
16-inch alloy wheels, and dominating, gray bumpers. A light
tint on the windows highlights its black outline.
The four sturdy foldout cup holders were conveniently locat­
ed, however, power window controls on the center console were
not, as the driver's right elbow sometimes unknowingly lowered
the rear window.
The ML320 is equipped with a flexible Service System (FSS)
which displays for ten seconds and notifies the driver of its next
required service. In case of an emergency, it has a first aid kit
located in the back storage compartment.
At 1,900 miles, the check engine light came on. W hats the
problem? We don't know yet. Stay tuned for the final review.
SPECIFICATIONS
Base price..................................................................... $34,950
Price as tested............................................................. $40,000
Engine..........................................................215 bhp, 3.2LV6
Transmission.............................................. 5-speed automatic
0-60 mph acceleration................................................9.2 sec.
EPA mileage................................................17 city/21 highway
Miles to date.....................................................................1.900
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