The G Man

The X5 is suppose to be sportier, thus look more aggressive. During my time behind the wheel of the X5, I found the steering feel no better than the ML, the ride was stiffer than the ML and the handling was slightly better than the ML. Comfort wise, the X5 is pretty comfortable on long trips but very few SUVs can compare to the ML comfort wise on long trips. Mercedes build and material quality is still one step above BMW and Mercedes also has the upper hand in reliability.

shotgun_banjo

I find the ml to be stiff when I set the airmatic to sport. Big difference in ride quality and trottle response somehow picks up quicker too. I think better get the ML with the airmatic and you can have a good balance of comfort and sport when you want too.