Should I do it?
Thread Starter
Junior Member
Joined: May 2011
Posts: 29
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GL450
Should I do it?
*******Repeat post from another MB forum***********
Two weeks ago I decided to trade in a 2011 GL450 for a 2012 ML350. The dealership couldn't find a vehicle on the ground with my desired options but was able to find one in transit from east coast. I was told it would take two weeks for the vehicle to arrive and reluctantly I agreed. Today marked the end of two weeks but I was told there will be an additional 5 day wait. I am not blaming the dealership as they can't control the driver nor can they control environmental factors that may have delayed the cross country drive. Nevertheless, as an impatient customer I want my vehicle now as I have been counting down the days for two weeks only to be told there will be an additional 5 day wait.
I spoke with the General Store manager who is great BTW and he said even though I signed the docs two weeks ago, I can cancel the contract or look at another vehicle altogether.
Two questions:
1. I have driven SUVs for probably the past 9 years and never considered owning a sedan as my daily vehicle until now. Has anyone else transitioned from an SUV to a sedan as your daily driver? How was the adjustment?
2. Am I being irrational here? Is a fairly loaded E class on the same level as the 2012 ML350?
Please help me think clearly as I may pull the trigger tomorrow.
Two weeks ago I decided to trade in a 2011 GL450 for a 2012 ML350. The dealership couldn't find a vehicle on the ground with my desired options but was able to find one in transit from east coast. I was told it would take two weeks for the vehicle to arrive and reluctantly I agreed. Today marked the end of two weeks but I was told there will be an additional 5 day wait. I am not blaming the dealership as they can't control the driver nor can they control environmental factors that may have delayed the cross country drive. Nevertheless, as an impatient customer I want my vehicle now as I have been counting down the days for two weeks only to be told there will be an additional 5 day wait.
I spoke with the General Store manager who is great BTW and he said even though I signed the docs two weeks ago, I can cancel the contract or look at another vehicle altogether.
Two questions:
1. I have driven SUVs for probably the past 9 years and never considered owning a sedan as my daily vehicle until now. Has anyone else transitioned from an SUV to a sedan as your daily driver? How was the adjustment?
2. Am I being irrational here? Is a fairly loaded E class on the same level as the 2012 ML350?
Please help me think clearly as I may pull the trigger tomorrow.
Super Member
Joined: May 2010
Posts: 672
Likes: 4
From: So. Cal.
Current: 2011 W212 Previous: 2008 W211 2006 550 2001 Rover 1997 W210
I drove non-SUV cars for about 10 years. Then I drove a Land Rover Discovery and then a Jeep Cherokee back to back. Maybe 5 years total in a SUV. Then another 10 years in various MBs and BMWs.
After driving an SUV for 5 years, I vowed never to drive another SUV as a daily. Not the same driving experience.
After driving an SUV for 5 years, I vowed never to drive another SUV as a daily. Not the same driving experience.
Out Of Control!!
Joined: Jun 2008
Posts: 10,557
Likes: 24
From: Earth
Porsche Macan S SportDesign / Ex M-B's: 11 & 10 & 06 E350's, 02 S500
I've driven SUV's quite a bit, and even used to own a big slightly lifted Bronco (the SUV of SUV's, lol).
To me, an SUV, unless needing the Utility, doesn't compare to a Luxury Sedan in overall experience and the quality of ownership. Compared to an SUV, a Sedan almost feels and certainly looks like a Sports Car.... compared to a Sports Car, a Luxury Sedan feels and acts like a "big car". You practically get the best middle ground.
As for the E VS ML, though the new ML is a HUGE improvement over the old one, and the first M-B SUV since the G to earn the authentic "Benz" stamp to me, it still doesn't have that true "Benz" feel to me, not to mention, the E is built in Germany, the ML in Alabama.... maybe it's in my head, but the feeling resonates to me.
IMO, to truly experience the historic Benz bloodline and qualities, you'll find them in a Benz Sedan more-so than any of the other segments.
To me, an SUV, unless needing the Utility, doesn't compare to a Luxury Sedan in overall experience and the quality of ownership. Compared to an SUV, a Sedan almost feels and certainly looks like a Sports Car.... compared to a Sports Car, a Luxury Sedan feels and acts like a "big car". You practically get the best middle ground.
As for the E VS ML, though the new ML is a HUGE improvement over the old one, and the first M-B SUV since the G to earn the authentic "Benz" stamp to me, it still doesn't have that true "Benz" feel to me, not to mention, the E is built in Germany, the ML in Alabama.... maybe it's in my head, but the feeling resonates to me.
IMO, to truly experience the historic Benz bloodline and qualities, you'll find them in a Benz Sedan more-so than any of the other segments.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Dec 2011
Posts: 2,056
Likes: 5
From: Paradise
w212 E550
there is a member changed from an escalade to a w212 recently and he's happy w/his decision. now you have to ask yourself, do you need the extra space? if not, go with a sedan, not necessary a w212, though. Why would you want to drive around a suv, burn more gas and harder to find parking if you don't really need to? as k-a said, e is from germany and ml is from the states. enough said.
Thread Starter
Junior Member
Joined: May 2011
Posts: 29
Likes: 0
GL450
I've driven SUV's quite a bit, and even used to own a big slightly lifted Bronco (the SUV of SUV's, lol).
To me, an SUV, unless needing the Utility, doesn't compare to a Luxury Sedan in overall experience and the quality of ownership. Compared to an SUV, a Sedan almost feels and certainly looks like a Sports Car.... compared to a Sports Car, a Luxury Sedan feels and acts like a "big car". You practically get the best middle ground.
As for the E VS ML, though the new ML is a HUGE improvement over the old one, and the first M-B SUV since the G to earn the authentic "Benz" stamp to me, it still doesn't have that true "Benz" feel to me, not to mention, the E is built in Germany, the ML in Alabama.... maybe it's in my head, but the feeling resonates to me.
IMO, to truly experience the historic Benz bloodline and qualities, you'll find them in a Benz Sedan more-so than any of the other segments.
To me, an SUV, unless needing the Utility, doesn't compare to a Luxury Sedan in overall experience and the quality of ownership. Compared to an SUV, a Sedan almost feels and certainly looks like a Sports Car.... compared to a Sports Car, a Luxury Sedan feels and acts like a "big car". You practically get the best middle ground.
As for the E VS ML, though the new ML is a HUGE improvement over the old one, and the first M-B SUV since the G to earn the authentic "Benz" stamp to me, it still doesn't have that true "Benz" feel to me, not to mention, the E is built in Germany, the ML in Alabama.... maybe it's in my head, but the feeling resonates to me.
IMO, to truly experience the historic Benz bloodline and qualities, you'll find them in a Benz Sedan more-so than any of the other segments.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Dec 2011
Posts: 4,379
Likes: 952
W212 FL
I drove Cadillac Escalade as my daily driver , totally pointless in city driving , it was too big , too bulky , too fuel beast , real gas guzzler lol
I don't miss at all but I liked the way engine revs , it was a quick and very large roomy interior .
ML is not that big all not and I would not compared it to these giant trucks.
W204 is too small for my tastes but I like these cars too . This is why I ordered W212 ,not too small neither too bulky as a daily driving
I could buy GLK instead but being a sedan lover I like sedans over other vehicles this is why I can also recommend you W212 E ,it goes w/o saying that it's the best looking E ever made and I find it the nicest Benz ever made
I don't miss at all but I liked the way engine revs , it was a quick and very large roomy interior .
ML is not that big all not and I would not compared it to these giant trucks.
W204 is too small for my tastes but I like these cars too . This is why I ordered W212 ,not too small neither too bulky as a daily driving
I could buy GLK instead but being a sedan lover I like sedans over other vehicles this is why I can also recommend you W212 E ,it goes w/o saying that it's the best looking E ever made and I find it the nicest Benz ever made
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Out Of Control!!
Joined: Jun 2008
Posts: 10,557
Likes: 24
From: Earth
Porsche Macan S SportDesign / Ex M-B's: 11 & 10 & 06 E350's, 02 S500
Thanks to EVERYONE who responded and K-A, you nailed it! I started considering a sedan after driving a C Class loaner for two weeks waiting for the ML to arrive. Although the C is too small for my needs, the C has that indescribable something that was missing in my GL and ML. I'm going to test drive an E in the morning.
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Super Member
Joined: Feb 2011
Posts: 507
Likes: 16
'11 E350BTC P2 Leather
I have what are now four teenagers, so we've been in the Minivan/SUV world forever.
Current stable includes an 03 Ford Excursion, which is my wife's truck, and she LOVES it, plus an 08 Honda Odyssey Touring, two of the kids are taking that back and forth to college with them. Good mileage, tons of space and LOTS of airbags.
I couldn't wait to be back in a four door sedan. My E has plenty of room for four of us, or even 5 if it's a short trip.
Once you go to a sedan again after having the SUV's for so long, it just feels so good to be in a car.
I think we'll always have one (smaller) SUV and one sedan.
Current stable includes an 03 Ford Excursion, which is my wife's truck, and she LOVES it, plus an 08 Honda Odyssey Touring, two of the kids are taking that back and forth to college with them. Good mileage, tons of space and LOTS of airbags.
I couldn't wait to be back in a four door sedan. My E has plenty of room for four of us, or even 5 if it's a short trip.
Once you go to a sedan again after having the SUV's for so long, it just feels so good to be in a car.
I think we'll always have one (smaller) SUV and one sedan.
Super Member
Joined: Jan 2012
Posts: 599
Likes: 6
From: Maryland
2022 E450 Prior:2021 S580 2012 E350BT, 2013 GL350BT, 2009 ML320BT, 2006 E320CDI, 1987 260E
Don't do it just because your impatient to wait 2 weeks you will regret.
However, having an W164 ML (I know newer one is nicer) and a W212, the W212 for pure just driving is much better. The only advantage of the ML really is space IMHO...
Also if you liked driving the C you will love driving the E. I had an 80s E and then no MB sedan for years. However, having the ML and getting a loaner C felt like downgrade to me besides just space, also luxury and comfort and performance even in a weird way. Driving an E compared to the ML is a definite upgrade in luxury and comfort.
However, having an W164 ML (I know newer one is nicer) and a W212, the W212 for pure just driving is much better. The only advantage of the ML really is space IMHO...
Also if you liked driving the C you will love driving the E. I had an 80s E and then no MB sedan for years. However, having the ML and getting a loaner C felt like downgrade to me besides just space, also luxury and comfort and performance even in a weird way. Driving an E compared to the ML is a definite upgrade in luxury and comfort.
Super Member
Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 672
Likes: 1
E350
I have a 2007 Tahoe and a 2011 E350. I am 6'4" and am infinitely more comfortable in the Tahoe and in the long run, will probably end up ditching the E350 before the 2007 Tahoe. I like the E350, but just expect 'more' from it. It is a 'nice' car and drives 'nice', but there is nothing about the E350 that makes it an enthusiasts car (regardless if it is a sport or luxury version). I prefer the upright position in the Tahoe and the visibility is MUCH MUCH better out of the Tahoe than the E350. The E350 is plagued with blindspots regardless of how well you adjust the mirrors because the limited adjustment on the mirrors. Unless you get the E350 loaded (P2 and most options) I think you will be disappointed. My 2007 Tahoe LTZ has a much better stereo and more bells and whistles than the 2011 E350 P1 with a lot of additional options added. Just my 0.02 but when we drop the E350 we will probably end up with a mid size SUV for the wife (RX350 or X5) and when I ditch the Tahoe i will probably end up with an Escalade (and I have a 5 mile commute round trip).
Thread Starter
Junior Member
Joined: May 2011
Posts: 29
Likes: 0
GL450
Super Member
Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 672
Likes: 1
E350
P2
Leather seats
Blind spot assist
Parktronic
Split folding rear seats
110V outlet in glove box
If you choose the Sport Trim, you need to pay the $800 for the AMG wheel package. It's just dumb to get the sport package without the AMG wheels. If you go Luxury, I would go with the split 5 spoke wheels (same as 2011 luxury wheels).
Leather seats
Blind spot assist
Parktronic
Split folding rear seats
110V outlet in glove box
If you choose the Sport Trim, you need to pay the $800 for the AMG wheel package. It's just dumb to get the sport package without the AMG wheels. If you go Luxury, I would go with the split 5 spoke wheels (same as 2011 luxury wheels).
Last edited by MCF; Mar 10, 2012 at 12:09 PM.
Thread Starter
Junior Member
Joined: May 2011
Posts: 29
Likes: 0
GL450
P2
Leather seats
Blind spot assist
Parktronic
Split folding rear seats
110V outlet in glove box
If you choose the Sport Trim, you need to pay the $800 for the AMG wheel package. It's just dumb to get the sport package without the AMG wheels. If you go Luxury, I would go with the split 5 spoke wheels (same as 2011 luxury wheels).
Leather seats
Blind spot assist
Parktronic
Split folding rear seats
110V outlet in glove box
If you choose the Sport Trim, you need to pay the $800 for the AMG wheel package. It's just dumb to get the sport package without the AMG wheels. If you go Luxury, I would go with the split 5 spoke wheels (same as 2011 luxury wheels).
Super Member
Joined: May 2008
Posts: 655
Likes: 2
Mercedes e350 BlueTec
P2
Leather seats
Blind spot assist
Parktronic
Split folding rear seats
110V outlet in glove box
If you choose the Sport Trim, you need to pay the $800 for the AMG wheel package. It's just dumb to get the sport package without the AMG wheels. If you go Luxury, I would go with the split 5 spoke wheels (same as 2011 luxury wheels).
Leather seats
Blind spot assist
Parktronic
Split folding rear seats
110V outlet in glove box
If you choose the Sport Trim, you need to pay the $800 for the AMG wheel package. It's just dumb to get the sport package without the AMG wheels. If you go Luxury, I would go with the split 5 spoke wheels (same as 2011 luxury wheels).
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Oct 2010
Posts: 5,142
Likes: 1,293
From: Southern US
2010 E550, 273 Engine: 2012 S550, 278 Engine
*******Repeat post from another MB forum***********
Two weeks ago I decided to trade in a 2011 GL450 for a 2012 ML350. The dealership couldn't find a vehicle on the ground with my desired options but was able to find one in transit from east coast. I was told it would take two weeks for the vehicle to arrive and reluctantly I agreed. Today marked the end of two weeks but I was told there will be an additional 5 day wait. I am not blaming the dealership as they can't control the driver nor can they control environmental factors that may have delayed the cross country drive. Nevertheless, as an impatient customer I want my vehicle now as I have been counting down the days for two weeks only to be told there will be an additional 5 day wait.
I spoke with the General Store manager who is great BTW and he said even though I signed the docs two weeks ago, I can cancel the contract or look at another vehicle altogether.
Two questions:
1. I have driven SUVs for probably the past 9 years and never considered owning a sedan as my daily vehicle until now. Has anyone else transitioned from an SUV to a sedan as your daily driver? How was the adjustment?
2. Am I being irrational here? Is a fairly loaded E class on the same level as the 2012 ML350?
Please help me think clearly as I may pull the trigger tomorrow.
Two weeks ago I decided to trade in a 2011 GL450 for a 2012 ML350. The dealership couldn't find a vehicle on the ground with my desired options but was able to find one in transit from east coast. I was told it would take two weeks for the vehicle to arrive and reluctantly I agreed. Today marked the end of two weeks but I was told there will be an additional 5 day wait. I am not blaming the dealership as they can't control the driver nor can they control environmental factors that may have delayed the cross country drive. Nevertheless, as an impatient customer I want my vehicle now as I have been counting down the days for two weeks only to be told there will be an additional 5 day wait.
I spoke with the General Store manager who is great BTW and he said even though I signed the docs two weeks ago, I can cancel the contract or look at another vehicle altogether.
Two questions:
1. I have driven SUVs for probably the past 9 years and never considered owning a sedan as my daily vehicle until now. Has anyone else transitioned from an SUV to a sedan as your daily driver? How was the adjustment?
2. Am I being irrational here? Is a fairly loaded E class on the same level as the 2012 ML350?
Please help me think clearly as I may pull the trigger tomorrow.
I drove a Tahoe for 5 years and kind of liked the height of the vehicle as you could see so well ahead over other cars. Did not really need this big vehicle but I had it.
It became necessary to get another ride and I went with Audi Q7. Reason is that it is a bit higher than a car and would soften between the Tahoe and a car, which I now have.
The ONLY thing that I would miss if I missed any is the visibility that I had with both Audi Q7 and Tahoe but that is it.
I first bought 2011 E350 but just recently traded it in for a 2010 E550. I did not do this for the extra power (Sweeeeet!) but for the driver assistance package. It is one of the best add-ons to have in the car.
I also like the Airmatic as it raises the cas a couple inches when I lift it up. Makes it easier to get in and out.
I think you should also test drive a E550 so you know what you would miss and one thing I learned myself. I will not buy another new MB. I will find low mileage CPO just like my E550 is.
Must have in my opinion:
I don't know if MB changed the packages but get packages / options including:
- Keyless-Go
-Bi-xenon lights
-Split folding rear seat back
- Distronic
- Pre-Safe brakes
- Blind spot assist
- Parking assist
- Trunk spoiler
Last edited by Arrie; Mar 10, 2012 at 02:42 PM.
Super Member
Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 672
Likes: 1
E350
Shall we begin the plastic vs. leather argument now or hold off for another "MBTEX vs. Leather" thread....hehehehehehe...let's hold off and stick to topic. To the OP, you can search for different people's opinion regarding the plastic vs. leather.
Super Member
Joined: May 2008
Posts: 655
Likes: 2
Mercedes e350 BlueTec
Super Member
Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 672
Likes: 1
E350
Super Member
Joined: Mar 2006
Posts: 771
Likes: 7
From: Waikele, Oahu, Hawaii
2011 GLK350 P1, Multi-media & AMG Pkg; 2010 E350 w/ prem 2; 2018 4Runner SR5 Prem. 4x4
I've been driving my VW Touareg for 6 years as a daily driver...finally sold it in November 2011. I drive my wife's ML320 on the weekends as she rather be the passenger since 2004. We both loved our SUVs....no worries about potholes...just drive right over it with the SUV....LOL!!
Prior to my SUVs, I drove only sedans...my Lexus GS was my daily driver between 2001 and 2005.
All I can say is....my wife doesn't care for sedans. She missed her ML320 when I sold it in February 2012....so I bought her the GLK350....she is a happy camper now.
As for me, I do miss the ride height of my SUV...you get to see everything in front of you. Driving the GLK tonight made me really miss my SUV....even though I drive sedans as a daily driver.
Good luck in your choice.
Pete
Prior to my SUVs, I drove only sedans...my Lexus GS was my daily driver between 2001 and 2005.
All I can say is....my wife doesn't care for sedans. She missed her ML320 when I sold it in February 2012....so I bought her the GLK350....she is a happy camper now.
As for me, I do miss the ride height of my SUV...you get to see everything in front of you. Driving the GLK tonight made me really miss my SUV....even though I drive sedans as a daily driver.
Good luck in your choice.
Pete
Out Of Control!!
Joined: Jun 2008
Posts: 10,557
Likes: 24
From: Earth
Porsche Macan S SportDesign / Ex M-B's: 11 & 10 & 06 E350's, 02 S500
To each their own, I guess, but M-B Tex is the best "Tex" in the business.
Super Member
Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 672
Likes: 1
E350
I am glad every time my butt hits the seat I know I am sitting on the material (LEATHER) that EVERY other high end car manufacturer uses. They have to for some reason. If MBTEX was so great, someone would copy it just like people copy everything else. That is all I am going to say on the subject. It looks better, doesn't get 'shiny and flat' and it feels better.
Out Of Control!!
Joined: Jun 2008
Posts: 10,557
Likes: 24
From: Earth
Porsche Macan S SportDesign / Ex M-B's: 11 & 10 & 06 E350's, 02 S500
I barely noticed a difference between the E's grainy and rough leather and M-B Tex. The durability of Tex and longevity, and ease of care make it a choice for me. As a Leaser, I guess I would probably would "take" Leather if it were offered for free, as it offers minimal levels of comfort/luxury over the Tex, but if I want this car for the long haul, I'm happy with Tex.
A lot of manufacturers have tried and continue to put Vinyl seats in their cars, but none have come close to M-B Tex's quality.
I for one am a fan.
A lot of manufacturers have tried and continue to put Vinyl seats in their cars, but none have come close to M-B Tex's quality.
I for one am a fan.
