bellemastiff

So the wife has signed off on trading her Tahoe in this winter for something we both like. She is fine with the Tahoe, I just have a disease and can't sit on any car longer than 2 yrs! It's also about out of warranty.

Our only MUSTS are: safe (not too compact as this is our 'family car'), 4wd (Chicago winters) and a lot of cargo space (we have 1 large dog right now -- may get a second at some point). Wife would also like something slightly smaller than the Tahoe so the GL class is out.

I wasn't a MB guy even a year ago but after trading in my 911s and going to the C63 I have been very impressed with MB build quality and I like the styling too.

Here are the 3 cars on my radar,

1. ML 350 (2012)
2. G-wagen (2009? 2010? ... would buy used to save a little cash, but something still under warranty)
3. E 350 Wagon (2012 as I'd want the latest engine)

Aside form MB we may also look at the Range Rover and Range Rover Sport although reliability is a concern :-)

I like the looks of the GLK too but am guessing the cargo space is just too small.

I think the wife is leaning towards the E Wagon and ML 350 as they're more "normal" cars and she doesn't like flashiness (though she hasn't said No to a G-wagen or Range Rover, either).

I am having trouble narrowing down our choice, anyone have any comment that might help me?

GregW / Oregon

The ML is probably the most versatile, up-to-date and cost effective of those. V6 gas or diesel, or V8. 68 cu ft cargo vs. 57 in the wagon. G has more space but is pretty antiquated and only comes in thirsty V8 (11 city/15 hwy). E wagon would be a nice ride if it's enough space for you but only comes in V8. My vote would be for the ML, especially with the dogs. Women seem to like the high seating position compared to a car, and that's what your wife is used to. I'd avoid the RRs for the reason you stated.

GregW / Oregon

The ML is probably the most versatile, up-to-date and cost effective of those; available in V6 gas or diesel, or V8. 68 cu ft cargo vs. 57 in the wagon. G has more space but is pretty antiquated and only comes in thirsty V8 (11 city/15 hwy). E wagon would be a nice ride if it's enough space for you but only comes in V8. My vote would be for the ML, especially with the dogs. Women seem to like the high seating position compared to a car, and that's what your wife is used to. I'd avoid the RRs for the reason you stated.

YYZ-E55

The E-Class estate is my favorite "functional" vehicle in the MB line-up right now. I actually prefer the styling to the sedan, and it swallows up cargo with ease. Much better ride quality than the M-Class; you don't get the typical SUV "sway". I would imagine you can get a better deal on the E as well.

In the ML's favor is the BlueTEC - great fuel economy and tons of torque. It will obviously be more in line with the Tahoe's driving dynamics/seating position, as Greg mentioned.

The G is baller but it's a rattle box, especially used.

Having said that, both the new ML and E are great vehicles. Good luck!

C43AMG

ML DIESEL FTW !

bellemastiff

The G is a "rattle box" LOL I hadn't known that... if true that'd be annoying for sure.

Why would the deals be better on an E-wagon rather than an ML? Just because the ML model refresh is so new? If anything I would've thought that E-wagon would be firm pricing because it's so rare (if a dealer has 1 in inventory, they probably only have 1)

YYZ-E55

I'd imagine you could order an E Wagon to your specs and negotiate a hefty discount. The ML is very new and selling well - it's SUV season!

smiley47

The E wagons are so rare it's alomost a "treat" to see one on the road. If you want that exclusivity I'd go that route. Not to mention it's a hell of a ride.

Jim Brady

If this is going to be her car, why don't you let her drive all three and decide since you've come up with the three choices.

Here's my prediction, Since most woman are shorter than us we don't realize how important visulization is. Woman like to sit up high and see the road., so E350 wagon is out but may like the ride.
The G wagon in a woman's eyes looks square so it's out.
The ML...running boards and blind spot recongnition. Yes.

I've talked my wife into some horrible choices for "her car" so now she decides on her car and will candidly ask my opinon. So things like the pano roof as it makes the interior ligher.
Stuff we males don't think about.

Happy wife, happy life. Lessons learned after 42 years. Just saying.

GregW / Oregon

Especially the E63! Of course that doesn't have all wheel drive.

xxGenericSNxx

You said the E wagon only comes in a V8. But it's currently only offered with the 350 V6 and coming soon the 63 5.5l V8 TT.

Mtl20v

I had to chose between the GL, ml and e wagon and for many of the reasons mentioned above, I ordered the wagon. Taking delivery in 2 Mondays.

The main benefits are the space, low height, rarity. I've always loved wagons and no question the new E wagon is the best looking one on the road right now.

GregW / Oregon

I stand corrected. So it's about an $8k premium over th ML.