bzjam

I'm trading an e350 for a 2014 ml350. On my e350 I have the p2 with the upgraded lights. On the ml350 are the standard lights good or should I definitely upgrade them? Also how is the standard stereo system? In the e350 I had the harmon kardon, but on the ml's I'm looking at there aren't any with it in stock. Thanks for the advice.

galion

Bixenons are worth the extra, I love the adaptative lights system.
I'm not an audiophile but heard both Audio 20 and Harman Kardon back to back before placing my order and decided to go with the standard Audio 20. It sounds good enough IMO.

GoldFeather

I have both the intelligent lighting and HK in my 2013 and love both. I am somewhat of an audiophile and I'm still wowed by the sound. BTW, I've listened to the HK in both the C and E class autos and it sounds no where near as good as it does in the ML.

HAILERS2

Yep, get the Lighting Package with the Bi-xenon headlights and Adaptive Highbeam Assist.

I went with the standard audio. Good enough for my ears.

I skipped the brushed aluminum running boards. I was up in the air about 'em til I got out of the ML at the dealership when parked close to another vehicle on the drivers side. My ankle/foot rubbed against it getting out and it was a bothersome thing, so right then and there decided to not get the running boards.

I did not order the HOT SPOT and kinda/sorta wish I had now. A toss up. Couldnt make up my mind so I didn't get it.

Nanook

The lights are a safety thing and most certainly a plus..stereo is purely personal satisfaction..hearing is believing tho..HK is really good !

cyclrder

If you like to crank your music... Get the HK..it really sounds great. Much better than the E350 version I had as a loaner car...the secret is in the subwoofers in the 166 series

jtorrebl

Stereo is only 800 and probably the feature you'll use the most. HK is really good. My friend has the standard and says it's not even close. HK is much better

Waykool plantz

I have the HK and am very happy I do....I don't have the lights and wish I did.
Good call on the running boards...if you're ordering get the wrapped dash.

parismtn

I test drove a vehicle without the HK and then the one I ended up purchasing had it. I'm not an audiophile by any means, and I could tell a difference.

Like Waykool, I didn't get the lights but wish I did now that I understand it's not an easy upgrade. The standard lights are fine and better than my previous SUV, but don't have that same coolness factor!

Kaasmann

I got the HK and play my own compiled CD's as well as some some store bought CD's, the sound in the ML is outstanding. I really can't tell the difference between the HK and my Bose sound on my computer. I guess I am an audiophile with 400+ gigs of music.
I also have the Bi-xenons and I would never again go without them.
As to the running boards, I have them as well. When I drive I use them to get in, but never to get out. On the other hand when I'm passenger, I never use them to get in but always when I get out. Talk about idiot-syncracy.
I also have the MB large roof carrier (Thule like) and need the running boards to access it. Considering that I am 6'7", the carrier would be exceptionally awkward without the running boards.

Streamliner

When spending the kind of money that a basic ML costs, if a vehicle is truly something important to you, step up and indulge in some of the wonderful options. Definitely get the Lighting Package and the HK, but don't stop there. If you have never driven a vehicle with the MB Driver's Assistance Package, MAKE SURE YOU DO, as I feel that it is THE best option offered by MB and that it can truly SAVE YOUR LIFE. Go for the MB Tex Wrapped Dash, Rear Seat Side Airbags, Parktronic and let's not forget those Heated/Cooled Cup Holders. This is a big purchase. Order the vehicle just how you want it and tell the dealer to keep all those "off the rack" units with the Light Up Star, Panorama Roof, Running Boards & Sports Packages that all the dealers seem to be so fond of ordering for stock. Merry Christmas!

dk10438

+1
drivers assistance is a "must have" IMO, it's a safety feature that could save your life or the ones you love.

I lovet the lighting package too. Makes the car look great, and again, I think of this as a safety feature so I think it's worth every penny.

MB seems to nickel and dime you for things that would be standard on other cars, leather seats, HID's, etc. But as previously mentioned, you're spending a lot of money on the car, you might as well get it exactly how you like it.