Sticker shock with the new ML
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From: Buffalo NY
3 Porsche rotation
Sticker shock with the new ML
I was at the dealer today returning the leased ML320 and looked at the new ML350 in the showroom. I couldn't believed it was stickered at $55K loaded. The base model of $39K only comes with cloth seating insert 
I don't know about you guys but that price is rediculous. I can get a decent Lexus RX330 for about $45K. Looks like I going to cross out ML350 off my shopping list in the fall.
John
I don't know about you guys but that price is rediculous. I can get a decent Lexus RX330 for about $45K. Looks like I going to cross out ML350 off my shopping list in the fall.John
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ML priicing
Originally Posted by JohnAMG
I was at the dealer today returning the leased ML320 and looked at the new ML350 in the showroom. I couldn't believed it was stickered at $55K loaded. The base model of $39K only comes with cloth seating insert I don't know about you guys but that price is rediculous. I can get a decent Lexus RX330 for about $45K. Looks like I going to cross out ML350 off my shopping list in the fall.
John
I don't know about you guys but that price is rediculous. I can get a decent Lexus RX330 for about $45K. Looks like I going to cross out ML350 off my shopping list in the fall.John
1. The base price has only gone up 17% from my 7-year old '98 ML320. That's not bad, considering it has 25% more power, nearly the same economy, and is improved in almost every area. Low range is now optional. So, I would consider the base vehicle a pretty good value.
2. The RX330 you cite is based on a car platform (structure, suspension) vs. the MLs purpose-built SUV platform. Towing capacity is 1,500 lb. less on the RX, it's wheelbase is nearly 8" shorter and track 2" narrower. Tires are a narrow 225 section. It is nowhere near rugged enough for off-road use.
3. The RX interior specs out big, but feels narrow to me.
4. The ML transmission has two additional speeds and manual shifting (manual only available with air suspension on RX).
5. While it's personal, I can't stand either the exterior or interior design of the RX.
6. The RX does have one more cupholder than the ML!
7. In it's favor, Lexus has a strong reputation for quality. While I have faith the new ML will bve great, it is yet to be proven after the spotty record of the prior one (though my '98 has been great).
As with many things, it depends on your needs and desires. Sometimes you have to look closely to discern the true value of things.
Last edited by GregW / Oregon; Apr 2, 2005 at 08:32 PM.
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From: Dallas, TX
2006 ML 500 and 2006 SLK 55 AMG
I know that Mercedes is comparing the ML to the RX330, but in my view, it's more comparable to the Cayenne S. When comparing with similar options, the ML is better priced than the Cayenne S and much better looking!
I have literally reviewed every SUV in the luxury category. You definitely get more bang for your with with the ML than with any other SUV, especially if you want off-road capability. The RX330 is not off road capable.
I have literally reviewed every SUV in the luxury category. You definitely get more bang for your with with the ML than with any other SUV, especially if you want off-road capability. The RX330 is not off road capable.
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In my situation and needs I can't justfy spending that kind of money. I used my SUV basically for the winter months and occasionally Home Depot trips. It is my third automobile, and it needs to be somewhat cost effective. I am looking for luxury(moderate) and reliability, and preferred to spend around $45K. My last ML320 cost me $39K and was farely well equiped and this is why I am having such hard time justfiying the new ML350. I don't do off-roading, unless you guys count the concrete jungle in Toronto. No doubt the new ML is technologically advanced and superior to the last ML or other SUVs, but it is not for me with that price tag. There are other good choices out there.
Heck, I might even consider the last generation ML if the dealer has any left over ones at the end of the year.
Heck, I might even consider the last generation ML if the dealer has any left over ones at the end of the year.
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From: Dallas, TX
2006 ML 500 and 2006 SLK 55 AMG
The two dealerships in Dallas both have last year's ML's available, and they're a steal right now. I'm sure the same holds true in other cities. I know this is a Mercedes forum, and I hate to recommend another car manufacturer to you. But, given the needs you have described, you might also consider the Volvo XC90. It's an awesome SUV, and it just might fit the bill for you. Good luck!
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2005 Mercedes C-Class
Originally Posted by JohnAMG
In my situation and needs I can't justfy spending that kind of money. I used my SUV basically for the winter months and occasionally Home Depot trips. It is my third automobile, and it needs to be somewhat cost effective. I am looking for luxury(moderate) and reliability, and preferred to spend around $45K. My last ML320 cost me $39K and was farely well equiped and this is why I am having such hard time justfiying the new ML350. I don't do off-roading, unless you guys count the concrete jungle in Toronto. No doubt the new ML is technologically advanced and superior to the last ML or other SUVs, but it is not for me with that price tag. There are other good choices out there.
Heck, I might even consider the last generation ML if the dealer has any left over ones at the end of the year.
Heck, I might even consider the last generation ML if the dealer has any left over ones at the end of the year.
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From: Buffalo NY
3 Porsche rotation
Originally Posted by elbimmer
Get the H2! Its cheap & good in winter!
The wife said no American cars in our life time. Acura MDX is on top of the list now follow by the Lexus RX330. I got at least 6 months to decide so I got plenty of time for research.
John
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From: Dallas, TX
2006 ML 500 and 2006 SLK 55 AMG
The Acura MDX is very nice. Also, I forgot to mention the VW Toureg. It's always compared to the top of the line SUV's like the BMW X-5, the Mercedes G, the Cayenne S. It always rates extremely well, and is very well-priced. At least, add it to your list for research
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From: oregon
2011 C300
Auto manufacturing is quite amazing these day's. the new pontiac GTO is based on the opel/ catera platform. (last remaing GM rear wheel drive except XLR/corvette) Ford's beautiful new mustang shares it's underpinnings with the T-bird, and Jag S type! If I see a Dodge Strattus come out on a C platform, I'll freak!
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Mercedes-Benz
Originally Posted by Sparky
You're right. They're built in Tuscaloosa, AL, unless it's an AMG version which is built in Germany. Good point!!!
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C320 Coupe
Originally Posted by JDM
Auto manufacturing is quite amazing these day's. the new pontiac GTO is based on the opel/ catera platform. (last remaing GM rear wheel drive except XLR/corvette) Ford's beautiful new mustang shares it's underpinnings with the T-bird, and Jag S type! If I see a Dodge Strattus come out on a C platform, I'll freak!
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From: Central VA, Philadelphia, PA
95' E320 Wagon (gave to father) 15' VW TDI Wagon, 05' X3, 97' F150, 99' Buell S3
alboston is correct about the ML55. I saw one roll off the line while on a tour at the plant in Alabama.
As for my 2 cents worth. I bought an 05' BMW X3 for my wife. I just couldn't do the ML. With all the equipment anyone would want including the 3.0 motor, Xenons and special aluminum trim, etc. I paid $36K. Seems like a bargain. Of course it wouldn't do off road like the ML, if that's important.
As for my 2 cents worth. I bought an 05' BMW X3 for my wife. I just couldn't do the ML. With all the equipment anyone would want including the 3.0 motor, Xenons and special aluminum trim, etc. I paid $36K. Seems like a bargain. Of course it wouldn't do off road like the ML, if that's important.
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Mercedes all the way!
just a point of interest, when has merc compared the ML to the RX before? as far as i know it was always pitched against the X5, Toureg, and Cayenne. the RX is much more like the XC90. both are closer to the E-wagon than the ML, imho: primarily meant for load-lugging and high ground clearance than anything else.
i personally can't stand the toureg's square and boring design
imho go for the ML for the quality, capability (it handles so much better than an RX and rides better than the X5 -- re: autocar magazine) and interior design - RX's might be specced differently here, but the one my uncle has does not have much in the way of inspiring material quality at all, although there are splashes of beautiful materials here and there
i personally can't stand the toureg's square and boring design
imho go for the ML for the quality, capability (it handles so much better than an RX and rides better than the X5 -- re: autocar magazine) and interior design - RX's might be specced differently here, but the one my uncle has does not have much in the way of inspiring material quality at all, although there are splashes of beautiful materials here and there
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From: Dallas, TX
2006 ML 500 and 2006 SLK 55 AMG
I agree that they are, in my view, not at all comparable. However, Mercedes, itself, in its own training material, is comparing the new ML to the RX330. Unbelievable, especially given the functionality and price differential. 
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ML vs. RX330
Originally Posted by Sparky
I agree that they are, in my view, not at all comparable. However, Mercedes, itself, in its own training material, is comparing the new ML to the RX330. Unbelievable, especially given the functionality and price differential.
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Originally Posted by JohnAMG
I was at the dealer today returning the leased ML320 and looked at the new ML350 in the showroom. I couldn't believed it was stickered at $55K loaded. The base model of $39K only comes with cloth seating insert I don't know about you guys but that price is rediculous. I can get a decent Lexus RX330 for about $45K. Looks like I going to cross out ML350 off my shopping list in the fall.
I don't know about you guys but that price is rediculous. I can get a decent Lexus RX330 for about $45K. Looks like I going to cross out ML350 off my shopping list in the fall.We did off road it in the beginning, but now have little need since we no longer live in the desert.
Makes me wish we bought the X5 instead - no repair costs for the 1st 4 years. My sister's 2000 X5 has been quite more reliable than our ML as well.
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ML Faults/virtues
Originally Posted by beemaze
Also, don't forget to factor in the cost of non-warranty covered repairs i.e. the brakes. I'm sure Mercedes has not figured out how to make their pads and rotors last any longer or cost any less. For every year we have owned the ML, we have had to replace the front and rear pads and rotors at a cost of around $1k and it goes up every year (euro $).
We did off road it in the beginning, but now have little need since we no longer live in the desert.
We did off road it in the beginning, but now have little need since we no longer live in the desert.
Last edited by GregW / Oregon; Apr 6, 2005 at 10:02 PM.
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My returned ML320 had 32K miles in 42 months and no brake job. I guess the brake problem must be a V8 thing. Honestly the ML320 did serve my family well. Only 3 mechanical problems in the first year and problems free the rest. Beside lousy gas milage and interior quality, it was a decent vehicle. I would like to get another ML but because my wife is having another child in 1 month, I am trying to be practical. I guess when you have children priority changes. Also my wife said no new AMG for a while 
John
John
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From: Anaheim Hills, CA.
Mercedes ML 500
if you are willing to spend 45k you can still get a nice ML 350. If you looked at one for 55k it must have had every possible option. If the base ML is 39k that gives you 6k to spend on options and still fall into your price range. I would rather drive a ML with a few less options than the RX 330 or MDX or anything else for that matter mostly because of safety. That oversized Camry of a RX 330 will fold up like your laundry in a accident. (Iknow it just happened to my sister on the 91 freeway in Anaheim, CA). The ML is still built like a truck and I can tell by driving this new one Mercedes has really gotten their act together on fit and finish and quality control on this redesign. Before you cross it off your list, give it another look, before you buy some rice burner.
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