YYZ-E55

Playing devils advocate here - were people pissed off that they (generally) couldn't walk into an Apple store and buy an iPad within the first few weeks of launch? Absolutely. Did Apple still sell a ****load of them? You bet. Were people pissed? Some, likely, however, I think most people expected there would be a wait. The iPad had only 6 configs at launch (wifi/3g, black only, 16/32/64gb); compare this to a typical car has hundreds of possible build combinations.

The bi-xenon issue is total BS, don't get me wrong. But issues like lack of pano roof and the active curve system, IMO at least, are almost good problems for MB to have. They're still building the trucks everyday (multiple shifts) and they're not rusting away on dealer's lots, even though they lack some options that us enthusiasts consider to be essential. It's not great for those of us who won't settle, but I'm willing to wait.

GregW / Oregon

I've been following this model's launch for two years, like I do with every new M3 that comes out. As I've said previously, I had the very first W163 and 164 delivered in Oregon. All options promised for those models were available at launch. I keep my cars a full cycle, so it just sucks that with the 166 they give dealers a list of options before production (6/11) with estimated availability dates that are way off. So I get all amped up, only to be continually disappointed as the date slips. I would not mind waiting a 2-3 months to get what I want, but when it gets up to 9-10 months that's absurd. I know to most people they don't even know or care about some of this. Special Order options, what are those?

But, brands are driven to higher levels by enthusiasts that want THAT brand for emotional and other reasons. Look at Porsche. When you let down your core group of enthusiasts with unfulfilled escpectations thats not good.

tjg0024

I agree about the new model roll out. My 2012 BlueTec just got replaced due to issues but I did not want the gas version. The diesel resells far better and I absolutely love the range. I had a 2010 BlueTec that I loved. There is just something about the diesel. I think you should reconsider changing to the gas especially since by the time you get yours the issues that I and others had should be in the past.

I'm with you on the difficulty in staying with this model, but, like you, I keep coming back to the ML after looking and just about every other car and SUV in the market.

cobalt210

Hey Greg,

Judging from the pictures you've posted the MB-Tex wrapped dash looks great, but how do you place the order? I've been out on the MBUSA website and can't seem to find the option.

I've placed an order for a 2012 Bluetec with P2, Driver Assist, Heated Wheel, Trailer Hitch and the Lighting Option and have a scheduled build date of April 20. Do I still have time to switch the dash option, assuming it remains an feature I can order?

GregW / Oregon

Your dealer can give you a list of "Special Order" options that are not on the website. I posted this last August. There are others worth considering like the Sport Interior, Anthracite headliner, Black Ash trim, MBTex/Dinamica upholstery, etc. There is a one time $250 surcharge for these in addition to any other premiums. You might have time; not sure.

jweezy

Can I get a trailer hitch and not pay $550 for it? How much from dealer?

cobalt210

Thanks for the info, Greg. I found the thread you posted with the ordering guide. Now I need to do a little work with my SA to see if I can make some changes to the order and retain the current schedule.

There's a picture of the sports package steering wheel in the guide, but I assume there are other changes to the interior that are not pictured. Do you know where I might find pictures that show the full impact of the sports package interior or should I address this question with the SA?

I appreciate your help. Based on what I'm reading here in the forum there's a lot of information that isn't necessarily forthcoming from the dealership - a pity when one is making a $60K decision that should be part of one's life for quite some time.

GregW / Oregon

No, factory installed is the way to go. That includes the receiver bar, ball & wiring.

GregW / Oregon

The package includes the seats (shown below in MBTex/Dinamica), aluminum pedal covers and the wheel. I think dealers view specials as a PITA-too bad, and many are not informed about nuances because they cover so many different models.

GregW / Oregon

Sorry to dredge up this 6-month old saga, but looks like I'll stick with my MY12 06/05 build order. MY13 has a couple nice things (color MFD and CPA), but the uncertainty of timing (still some scarce options) has me saying "enough!" That, plus you can now order the satin wood with the Sport Interior is a plus. I'm holding off final decision for the next week or so, but looks like my truck may come when I'm gone to Spain for 3 weeks starting late June. Putting my W164 up for sale first of June.

I'm tired of just writing about this vehicle and want to have one!

YYZ-E55

I'm with you! I gave up on the ACS and 21" wheels... just not happening! At least you got the ACS.

My truck is at the rail yard, will take delivery at the end of the month.

WCH BOS

Greg - are you getting the cargo management system?

I didn't order my ML63 so mine doesn't have it. It's really the only option I would have wanted that I don't have since the ML63s are pretty loaded.

GregW / Oregon

Yes, thanks for noticing that's missing - somehow got lost. I'll put it back on.

twodivers

Let me know if you can get it back on. My SA has confirmed that cargo management is NOT available with P02 as the lockable storage conflicts with it. But that may have changed.

GregW / Oregon

That is correct per my SA, as well. Too bad - I'd gladly give up the locking compartment.

WCH BOS

That's too bad. At least now I don't feel like I missed the chance to get it.

GregW / Oregon

Have a build date, finally (10/30/11 order)! June 15. Looks like I may get one of the last '12s. Just can't chance waiting for the '13s with unknown delivery times for special options. I'm guessing MY12 350s with Dynamic Handling (as well as Lighting and Panorama) are going to be somewhat rare. Car is going to be setting at the dealer a couple weeks until we get back from Europe, though.

twodivers

Congrats! I know the feeling of finally getting a date. Keep us posted.

YYZ-E55

I enjoyed this out of context.

GregW / Oregon

LOL!

GregW / Oregon

YYZ, do you have a photo of the sport seat as above but in black premium leather? Thx.

twodivers

How do you know it was out of context!?

Glad I could get a chuckle!

YYZ-E55

Sorry Greg, I've never come across one posted (though I did look). We don't offer it up in Canada so I've never seen the sport interior in person.

GregW / Oregon

Well, I"d rather have the AMG exterior you get, but good to know we have something you don't! Will post pics of mine in 2 months.

Morro

Ordered my MY2013 April 27,2012 with delivery slated for October.

ML350 Bluetec
Diamond White Metallic
Black Artico
Black Anthracite Wood
PP (Canada)
Bi-Xenon Lighting Pkg

Now I just have to wait for it...which is tough.