I am thinking about an ML320 CDI and facing the usual doubts about options, that easily can add up to a small fortune! Would appreciate opinions about the quality of standard headlights and the wothiness of the optional BI-Xenon for US$900.

Thanks

M

 

For my two cents, it's well worth it. Besides the HUGE difference in functionality at night (with the curve illuminating lamps and cornering foglamps) the visual differences on the car are big as well. The edge of the projector looks like an afterburner on a plane, and the foglamps are much bigger and better looking than the standard pinhole lights.

To prove the difference to yourself, take a look at the two options side by side and you will see a huge difference.

 

Would not have one without it.

 

I wont buy another car without Xenon lights. Great safety item, and adds aesthetics.

 

I've driven a few ML loaners, and I was very unsatisfied with the standard headlight performance, even compared to other Halogen headlamp vehicles. Now, the ML's HID headlights are some of the best on the market. Excellent illumination. Add in the curve sensing and the cornering fog lamps and you got yourself a must have package.

 

pros -
3x the lumens
projector HIDs may be a huge improvement in visual appearance over halogen
buying new w/car is HUGE savings if added on after deliver
safer driving at night

cons -
if bulb goes on the blink, current cost is about $80/pair or higher
(if you buy single bulb, color may not match)
more parts to go bad, ballast is approx $1-300 each
may cause more glare in inclement wx conditions (heavy rain/fog)