KA8

I've had 06 ML which I traded in for our current 08 ML350. Love this SUV but does not have factory hitch and never thought I'll need a hitch at the time of purchase. So I bought a used unit from 08 ML350 or so stated by scrapyard who sold the unit to me. Today I took the my ML apart only to find out the brackets are too long so looks like it's from an 08 GL. I'm tired of trying to retrofit one so I decided to get a new ML with factory hitch. Test drove the bluetec and was pleasantly surprised to be very quiet and smooth. Although it lacked power on higher rpms I was sold on 400 ft.lb torque. That's about what my slightly modded Z has. Also like the new COMMAND which makes mine totally outdated. Anyway I'd like some input from current bluetec owners. Do you regret going diesel? Just found out about no spare and run flats on bluetecs which is a bit of a turn off. How can I prepare for a flat with runflats? I will be towing my Z with new ML which is a good 5000-5500 lbs.

Tdiferrari

We love every minute of our ML350 Bluetec. With all wheel drive and my wife's lead foot, it still has us at an average of 24MPG combined. Our 2 wheel drive GLK350, which it replaced, got an average of 20MPG. On roadtrips with me driving, we get around 29MPG. Runflats are fine as we don't do much extra-urban driving. No regrets thus far.

KA8

Thanks for your input. We're going to a different dealer tomorrow. There's a good chance we might trade our car in for a new ML.

DC-IT

KA8. Have you asked your dealer if they have a Demo or M-B Employee driven 2011 ML-BlueTec?
These are usually low mileage and you can save quite a bundle since M-B is clearing them to make way for the 2012 ML.
If you take a 3-year lease you can return it in or buy it out at the end of the lease or lease the new model then when all the bugs have been fixed.

KA8

I've always heard you should avoid demo vehicles. Dealer that I'm going to is having lease specials because 2012 models will be coming in couple of months which is a great news for me. till concerned about runflats on bluetecs because roads in LA are bumpy. ML550 is very tempting though haha