New Member - 1st MB - need advice (ML350 Bluetec)
Thread Starter
Junior Member
Joined: May 2012
Posts: 15
Likes: 0
From: Everett, WA
2013 MB BTC
New Member - 1st MB - need advice (ML350 Bluetec)
Hello:
My wife and I put a deposit down on a 2013 ML350 BlueTEC back in May; however, I would like to go out to everyone with some questions about which options are must-haves and which ones are not worth it. By the way, we were originally told the order would go in in July, now delayed till Sept. Still time to modify the build.
What we have decided on:
- Pkg 1
- Parktronic
- MB Tex (not leather) - still up in the air about this one.
- Panorama sunroof
- Lighting package
- Lane tracking
- Keyless go
- Heated steering wheel
- Rear seat pre-wiring
What we are wondering about:
- 19" or 20" wheels?
- Maintenance packages?
- Leather or MB Tex?
The build order can still be modified. Any help/recommendations/advice is appreciated.
Thanks.
Dan
My wife and I put a deposit down on a 2013 ML350 BlueTEC back in May; however, I would like to go out to everyone with some questions about which options are must-haves and which ones are not worth it. By the way, we were originally told the order would go in in July, now delayed till Sept. Still time to modify the build.
What we have decided on:
- Pkg 1
- Parktronic
- MB Tex (not leather) - still up in the air about this one.
- Panorama sunroof
- Lighting package
- Lane tracking
- Keyless go
- Heated steering wheel
- Rear seat pre-wiring
What we are wondering about:
- 19" or 20" wheels?
- Maintenance packages?
- Leather or MB Tex?
The build order can still be modified. Any help/recommendations/advice is appreciated.
Thanks.
Dan
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Joined: Jul 2003
Posts: 6,770
Likes: 1,264
From: Lake Oswego, OR
2020 GLE 450; 2023 BMW M2 Coupe
Hello:
My wife and I put a deposit down on a 2013 ML350 BlueTEC back in May; however, I would like to go out to everyone with some questions about which options are must-haves and which ones are not worth it. By the way, we were originally told the order would go in in July, now delayed till Sept. Still time to modify the build.
What we have decided on:
- Pkg 1
- Parktronic
- MB Tex (not leather) - still up in the air about this one.
- Panorama sunroof
- Lighting package
- Lane tracking
- Keyless go
- Heated steering wheel
- Rear seat pre-wiring
What we are wondering about:
- 19" or 20" wheels?
- Maintenance packages?
- Leather or MB Tex?
The build order can still be modified. Any help/recommendations/advice is appreciated.
My wife and I put a deposit down on a 2013 ML350 BlueTEC back in May; however, I would like to go out to everyone with some questions about which options are must-haves and which ones are not worth it. By the way, we were originally told the order would go in in July, now delayed till Sept. Still time to modify the build.
What we have decided on:
- Pkg 1
- Parktronic
- MB Tex (not leather) - still up in the air about this one.
- Panorama sunroof
- Lighting package
- Lane tracking
- Keyless go
- Heated steering wheel
- Rear seat pre-wiring
What we are wondering about:
- 19" or 20" wheels?
- Maintenance packages?
- Leather or MB Tex?
The build order can still be modified. Any help/recommendations/advice is appreciated.
- Sport interior
- Dinamica/MBTex upholstery with Sport seats (nicer than straight MBT, IMO), but only comes in black
- MBTex dash (U09) - stitched
For me other must haves are HK sound, trailer hitch. Unlike the '12, rear seat prewiring is only useful if you are later going to install the MB system. Passenger seat memory is a standalone option. 20" wheels have a far nicer look, but be aware they may delay your order as they are in short supply. I would skip the maintenance package, though you might want to consider the extended warranty in the first year if you'll keep longer than 4 years/50k miles.
Thread Starter
Junior Member
Joined: May 2012
Posts: 15
Likes: 0
From: Everett, WA
2013 MB BTC
Thanks!
Greg:
Thank you. Great points. I noticed your 2012 also has pass-through seating -- something we definitely want (our 15 year-old has a cello). Also, we were told we had to get the pre-wiring in order to get the passenger seat memory; we definitely don't want to install the system later.
I also like the idea of sport seats and sport interior - two more things we need to consider.
Thanks again!
Dan
Thank you. Great points. I noticed your 2012 also has pass-through seating -- something we definitely want (our 15 year-old has a cello). Also, we were told we had to get the pre-wiring in order to get the passenger seat memory; we definitely don't want to install the system later.
I also like the idea of sport seats and sport interior - two more things we need to consider.
Thanks again!
Dan
Junior Member
Joined: Sep 2011
Posts: 34
Likes: 0
From: Arizona
2013 ML350BTC
Greg makes good points. Don't buy a bluetec without the trailer hitch, whether you plan to tow or not. Aftermarket is expensive and when you sell it, bluetec is popular for those who tow. Maybe its just my hot hands and living in hot climes, but wood steering wheel is important to me. Inside of 2 years my hands start to break down all-leather steering wheels.
I also think airmatic's benefits go beyond refined ride -- if you ever do any offroad (more ground clearance), or for lots of highway driving (further lowering suspension for better economy).
Also, consider carefully whether you want active lane/blind assist or passive (or neither). Last I heard the active system only has two settings: off and on. Some have posted they prefer passive over active and with active you don't get passive in the off-position.
I've also seen lots of posts raving the benefits of distronic active cruise control. Especially if you drive in lots of traffic.
I also think airmatic's benefits go beyond refined ride -- if you ever do any offroad (more ground clearance), or for lots of highway driving (further lowering suspension for better economy).
Also, consider carefully whether you want active lane/blind assist or passive (or neither). Last I heard the active system only has two settings: off and on. Some have posted they prefer passive over active and with active you don't get passive in the off-position.
I've also seen lots of posts raving the benefits of distronic active cruise control. Especially if you drive in lots of traffic.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Dec 2009
Posts: 1,121
Likes: 12
From: Connecticut
2018 BMW 540d
2)I have it and find it totally useless for *my* purposes.But at least some who have it like it.
3)Totally satisfied with the vinyl.Particularly worthwhile,IMO,for those with kids or pets.
4)No strong opinion either way.
5)I have Distronic,which features *active* lane assist and *active* blind spot assist.Love them both,as well as the "Pre Safe" braking.Not that thrilled by the "advanced" cruise control,however. (long story)
6)Had it on a previous car.Didn't like it at all..mainly due to car theft issues (MIT's written that feature up and confirmed the negative stories I've seen).Many here love it though.
7)Don't have it and wish I did.A relatively minor feature but still nice.
8)If you want rear seat entertainment (for kids,for example) it's pretty much a must have.Otherwise,why bother?
Last edited by listerone; Aug 12, 2012 at 05:03 PM.
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MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Nov 2001
Posts: 4,260
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From: Philadelphia area
2010 ML550, 2010 E350 4M, 1966 Corvette Convt C2
My advice is not to skimp at all on options. I would rather have something that I don't use that often than to wish I had bought it for all the years I own the vehicle. Specifically I would buy the HK system, leather and whatever package contains the Xenon lighting. Keyless go is also very nice.
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Super Member
Joined: Mar 2011
Posts: 552
Likes: 1
From: Near Niagara Falls, Canada
2013 ML BLUETEC JULY 31
Greg:
Thank you. Great points. I noticed your 2012 also has pass-through seating -- something we definitely want (our 15 year-old has a cello). Also, we were told we had to get the pre-wiring in order to get the passenger seat memory; we definitely don't want to install the system later.
I also like the idea of sport seats and sport interior - two more things we need to consider.
Thanks again!
Dan
Thank you. Great points. I noticed your 2012 also has pass-through seating -- something we definitely want (our 15 year-old has a cello). Also, we were told we had to get the pre-wiring in order to get the passenger seat memory; we definitely don't want to install the system later.
I also like the idea of sport seats and sport interior - two more things we need to consider.
Thanks again!
Dan
I find leather a touch cooler then MBtex and for only 570 u americans get ventilated seats w pay 1200 in Canada
airmatic on its own is nice the 20" wheels not worth waiting for put the $$$ to winter tire/wheel package(non MB) or aftermarket 20's for summer and winter tires on ur 19's if u get snow :o)
HK yep
In Canada almost all have panaramic so I demanded it. In USA its not as in demand for resale but that may be changing but could delay build.
Almost forgot the adaptive highbeam headlights(bixenons) they are worth the wait. Ur getting bluetec (so it will be OCT earliest build in USA) anyway so I assume you will be doing a lot of highway driving with the BT so Bixenons a must most would say
Have FUN figuring it all out with the potential delays
Last edited by dougiebear; Aug 12, 2012 at 11:16 PM.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jul 2003
Posts: 6,770
Likes: 1,264
From: Lake Oswego, OR
2020 GLE 450; 2023 BMW M2 Coupe
Greg:
Thank you. Great points. I noticed your 2012 also has pass-through seating -- something we definitely want (our 15 year-old has a cello). Also, we were told we had to get the pre-wiring in order to get the passenger seat memory; we definitely don't want to install the system later.
I also like the idea of sport seats and sport interior - two more things we need to consider.
Thanks again!
Thank you. Great points. I noticed your 2012 also has pass-through seating -- something we definitely want (our 15 year-old has a cello). Also, we were told we had to get the pre-wiring in order to get the passenger seat memory; we definitely don't want to install the system later.
I also like the idea of sport seats and sport interior - two more things we need to consider.
Thanks again!
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Mar 2005
Posts: 2,034
Likes: 20
From: Toronto
MY17 E43 Matte Selenite/Macchiato Beige, MY16 GLE350d Tenorite/Crystal Grey, MY17 B250
Y90 black headliner (assuming you don't select beige or grey ARTICO). It totally changes the interior.
Super Member
Joined: Mar 2011
Posts: 552
Likes: 1
From: Near Niagara Falls, Canada
2013 ML BLUETEC JULY 31
Super Member
Joined: Jul 2010
Posts: 625
Likes: 4
From: Australia
X350d GLE500e 2017, ML350 BlueTec 2012(sold), A200 2013, ML350CDI 2009(sold), Aston Martin DB7 2003
Maybe cheap for some, but its only available with designo leather etc here.
But at least I can get Airmatic and OnOff road.
But at least I can get Airmatic and OnOff road.
Member
Joined: Dec 2010
Posts: 158
Likes: 0
From: Charlotte, NC
'15 GL350 Bluetec
My 2 cents, based on my '12 BT:
I've always preferred MB-Tex vs. leather, and I've had both - I think it's a personal thing.
Sport interior is nice - went with the MB-Tex/Dinamica, and really like the "grippy" Dinamica inserts as well as the look. I will say the Dinamica seems to me to be a bit warmer though. The steering wheel is nicer (IMO) too.
The MB-Tex wrapped dash is wicked good - changes the entire look of the interior.
Trailer hitch for sure - if for nothing other than a bike rack!
Do not even think of not getting the Lighting Package - it is by far the best system MB has had for lighting (haven't driven the CLS with LED lighting, though).
I am one of those that likes the Distronic cruise - worth every penny.
We travel with kids, and opted for the 3-zone AC - a small investment to keep the whining to a minimum!
Passenger memory is good if you drive long distances and swap drivers - although once you get behind the wheel of the new ML, you may not want to swap!
HK sound is great and I can't imagine not having it.
Whatever your choices, I am sure you will enjoy your new ML BT.
I've always preferred MB-Tex vs. leather, and I've had both - I think it's a personal thing.
Sport interior is nice - went with the MB-Tex/Dinamica, and really like the "grippy" Dinamica inserts as well as the look. I will say the Dinamica seems to me to be a bit warmer though. The steering wheel is nicer (IMO) too.
The MB-Tex wrapped dash is wicked good - changes the entire look of the interior.
Trailer hitch for sure - if for nothing other than a bike rack!
Do not even think of not getting the Lighting Package - it is by far the best system MB has had for lighting (haven't driven the CLS with LED lighting, though).
I am one of those that likes the Distronic cruise - worth every penny.
We travel with kids, and opted for the 3-zone AC - a small investment to keep the whining to a minimum!
Passenger memory is good if you drive long distances and swap drivers - although once you get behind the wheel of the new ML, you may not want to swap!
HK sound is great and I can't imagine not having it.
Whatever your choices, I am sure you will enjoy your new ML BT.
Super Member
Joined: Aug 2007
Posts: 872
Likes: 105
From: Pacific Northwest
2022 GLE450
My 2 cents, based on my '12 BT:
I've always preferred MB-Tex vs. leather, and I've had both - I think it's a personal thing.
Sport interior is nice - went with the MB-Tex/Dinamica, and really like the "grippy" Dinamica inserts as well as the look. I will say the Dinamica seems to me to be a bit warmer though. The steering wheel is nicer (IMO) too.
The MB-Tex wrapped dash is wicked good - changes the entire look of the interior.
Trailer hitch for sure - if for nothing other than a bike rack!
Do not even think of not getting the Lighting Package - it is by far the best system MB has had for lighting (haven't driven the CLS with LED lighting, though).
I am one of those that likes the Distronic cruise - worth every penny.
We travel with kids, and opted for the 3-zone AC - a small investment to keep the whining to a minimum!
Passenger memory is good if you drive long distances and swap drivers - although once you get behind the wheel of the new ML, you may not want to swap!
HK sound is great and I can't imagine not having it.
Whatever your choices, I am sure you will enjoy your new ML BT.
I've always preferred MB-Tex vs. leather, and I've had both - I think it's a personal thing.
Sport interior is nice - went with the MB-Tex/Dinamica, and really like the "grippy" Dinamica inserts as well as the look. I will say the Dinamica seems to me to be a bit warmer though. The steering wheel is nicer (IMO) too.
The MB-Tex wrapped dash is wicked good - changes the entire look of the interior.
Trailer hitch for sure - if for nothing other than a bike rack!
Do not even think of not getting the Lighting Package - it is by far the best system MB has had for lighting (haven't driven the CLS with LED lighting, though).
I am one of those that likes the Distronic cruise - worth every penny.
We travel with kids, and opted for the 3-zone AC - a small investment to keep the whining to a minimum!
Passenger memory is good if you drive long distances and swap drivers - although once you get behind the wheel of the new ML, you may not want to swap!
HK sound is great and I can't imagine not having it.
Whatever your choices, I am sure you will enjoy your new ML BT.
do you have a picture of what your seats look like in the ML?
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jul 2003
Posts: 6,770
Likes: 1,264
From: Lake Oswego, OR
2020 GLE 450; 2023 BMW M2 Coupe
Member
Joined: Oct 2006
Posts: 184
Likes: 32
From: North Jersey
2020 GLE 580 | 2020 Ram 1500 Limited
As Greg already said
the prewiring packaging is absolutely useless unless you intend on having your dealer install the mercedes brand monitors behind the front seat headrests in the future. it will not give you the ability to add or use a third party system. it is something you may want to remove from your order.
if you want the passenger seat memory you need to add the following to your order it is the only way you will get the memory seat
Code 242 Passenger Seat w/Memory & Lumbar Support (Special Order) $ 365
It is a special order item that doesn't show on the website build configurator. there is a one time special order charge of $250 no matter how many special order items you add.
the prewiring packaging is absolutely useless unless you intend on having your dealer install the mercedes brand monitors behind the front seat headrests in the future. it will not give you the ability to add or use a third party system. it is something you may want to remove from your order.
if you want the passenger seat memory you need to add the following to your order it is the only way you will get the memory seat
Code 242 Passenger Seat w/Memory & Lumbar Support (Special Order) $ 365
It is a special order item that doesn't show on the website build configurator. there is a one time special order charge of $250 no matter how many special order items you add.
Super Member
Joined: Mar 2011
Posts: 552
Likes: 1
From: Near Niagara Falls, Canada
2013 ML BLUETEC JULY 31
Member
Joined: Dec 2010
Posts: 158
Likes: 0
From: Charlotte, NC
'15 GL350 Bluetec
Yes, the black cloth is SPC code Y90, no cost after the $250 SPC charge. I like it, but I do have the Pano roof which helps brighten the interior a bit.
Newbie
Joined: Sep 2012
Posts: 12
Likes: 0
From: Gainesville, FL. USA
Mercedes Benz ML550 2013
mbtex/dinamica
does anyone knows or have a picture of mb tex/dinamica interior? because i went to my local dealer and they said, if you want leather you have to wait until february.... i dont wait a lot of time for one car... but if i order with mbtex and dinamica the car is here before new year.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jul 2003
Posts: 6,770
Likes: 1,264
From: Lake Oswego, OR
2020 GLE 450; 2023 BMW M2 Coupe
