PICS:: ML 2012 leaked scans




TBH if I was to consider a family hauler (without requirements in trunk space or 3rd row), I too would take a Cayenne, so much with so little compromise.
As part of Mercedes-Benz's promotion they had all of the new 2012 models outside their HQ bldg. with M-B staff to answer our questions. When I saw the new 2012 M-B ML model my initial concerns and impressions stated previously in this blog thread were unfortunately confirmed. The new model has a much "softer" look to it, compared to the previous model (164). The more distinct sculpted look of the 164, specifically the articulation design of the side door panels and rear quarter panels has been greatly diminished, flattened out and generally "softened", with the result being IMHO a much more modest and generic SUV. Take off the Mercedes "star" emblem and you would be hard presseed to recognize it as a Mercedes from the side or rear. The concealed exhaust pipes is a disappointment for me. They have even added the roof mounted antenna, something that the ML previously did not have or need. The overall design from the rear and rear quarter perspective seems to resemble a (shudder the thought....).... a minivan!
The front end grille redesign is the most successful aspect of this model. They have very nicely incorporated the daytime running and turn signal LED's into the headlight cluster. The interior looks better in the photographs that in reality, again IMHO. I will save my final judgement and opinion for when I actually see, sit in and drive the ML63 AMG version, which I was told will be introduced in the late winter/early spring. I think I will be holding on to my 2007 ML63 AMG for awhile longer, longer than I was originally expecting to....
FYI - Here are some photos from the rear of the 2012 ML next to the 2011 model that I took at the show. What do you all think?
AVB-AMG
Last edited by AVB-AMG; Jun 20, 2011 at 02:11 PM.
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As part of Mercedes-Benz's promotion they had all of the new 2012 models outside their HQ bldg. with M-B staff to answer our questions. When I saw the new 2012 M-B ML model my initial concerns and impressions stated previously in this blog thread were unfortunately confirmed. The new model has a much "softer" look to it, compared to the previous model (164). The more distinct sculpted look of the 164, specifically the articulation design of the side door panels and rear quarter panels has been greatly diminsished and flattened and softened out, with the result being IMHO a much more modest and generic SUV. Take off the Mercedes "star" emblem and you would be hard presseed to recognize it as a Mercedes from the side or rear. The concealed exhaust pipes is a disappointment for me. They have even added the roof mounted antenna, something that the ML previously did not have or need. The overall design from the rear and rear quarter perspective seems to resemble a (shudder the thought....).... a minivan!
The front end grille redesign is the most successful aspect of this model. They have very nicely incorporated the daytime running and turn signal LED's into the headlight cluster. The interior looks better in the photographs that in reality, again IMHO. I will save my final judgement and opinion for when I actually see, sit in and drive the ML63 AMG version, which I was told will be introduced in the late winter/early spring. I think I will be holding on to my 2007 ML63 AMG for awhile longer, longer than I was originally expecting to....
FYI - Here are some photos from the rear of the 2012 ML next to the 2011 model that I took at the show. What do you all think?
AVB-AMG

I agree that the new 2012 looks BLAH at best...those hidden exhaust pipes are driving me crazy!!!
I'm glad I bought my 2011 2 month ago!
The Best of Mercedes & AMG
It works for me. It'll be a toss up between this one and Cayenne Turbo when time comes for picking up my next SUV.
It is just simply a terrible design. I cant see myself moving into the new model vs the W164.
Wherther its the 2013 SL, this ML, the new GLS/GLC whatever its called, they are all awful. Its as if a new design team has been hired with a totally different mindset. they should be fired
















