titolugo

Does anybody know if the new w164 ML have an alternative to add the third row optional child seats? I am refering to the option available to the late W163 model. I am planning to change my e55 for an suv and would prefer an ML instead of a GL since I only will need the third row once in a while.
Any constructive info will be appreciated, like part # or webpage.
Thanks in advance,
Alberto

Vernl

I dont think that in this model year there are plans for any third row seats. I dont imagine that will change in the future as they dont market the ML to that type of customer since they already have vehicles to fit that requirement.

sosh

No I do not believe they will ever be offered in the W164. The W164 does not have a foot well for the third row as the W163 had. As far as availability in the W163, the 3rd row was an option from the first year; 1998. Its my contention that any SUV the size of the W163 or W164 does not have enough room to make the 3rd row seats usable even for children.

SEXYBEEST

ya better go with the X5, TWIN TURBO DIESEL, it's a good car but i, like you really need that extra 3rd row seat and don't want that big GL

titolugo

Thanks everyone,
I came from the MB dealer and test drived the 2009 bluetec GL (dealer's demo) and most likely will buy it despite the low trade -in value offered for my 2003 E55. I didn't know that bmw already had available the diesels since they do not appear on their website but I will take a look and compare. But I have heard that the ride on the x5 is rough.

baxterdown

titolugo,

I went from an X5 (first gen) to the ML. I wouldn't call the X5 drive rough, but it definitely feels heavier than the ML. The X5 is more of a "sport" drive, the ML is more luxurious, like a Range Rover.

Looking forward to your thoughts on how the two compare.

Jose

SEXYBEEST

i don't think they are out right now but soon, i really like the drive of the ML but you are right bout the 3rd row seat, i wouldn't use it everyday but i hate it when my son has friends over and there is an odd man out, that sucks!

titolugo

Sexybeest,
What do you mean by "but soon" ?
Do you have any info that it will be produced?
If so please direct me to the info since I am near closing a deal for a 2009 GL bluetec. It would save me a lot of $'s if I buy the ML.

Thanks again,
Tito

VelociRaptor

No 3rd row option for the ML class and dont ever see one coming in the future. I will update if I see a change in that aspect.

SEXYBEEST

i have read it and i have a few friends in the sales and they say it's coming, just don't know when, probably march-april i would say but don't hold me too it. sorry i don't have better info titolugo....

VelociRaptor

I work on the assembly line and havent heard any changes being planned for a 3rd row.

SEXYBEEST

sorry if i may have confused you guy's, or i read it wrong but i was talking about the "twin turbo 3 seat BMWs diesel X5" not the ML