Test drive Mercedes Benz ML class w163 2001-2005 SUV

Classics of the genre

Mercedes M-Klasse is a real veteran of the modern luxury sector. This status, however, does not prevent the car from remaining very relevant. A year ago, in 2002, the model went through the restyling procedure, transforming externally, and recently received a more powerful six-cylinder engine. The 3.2-liter unit was replaced by an improved volume of 3.7 liters.


Frankly, the external data of a familiar to the smallest details of the SUV still look quite fresh. And the recent restyling, during which, by the way, the car received about 1100 new details, here it came in handy. Modern lighting technology with transparent glasses, a modified front bumper with a covered net and spectacular fog on the sides, an integrated false radiator grille with chrome inserts, updated moldings, 17-inch alloy wheels with wide rubber. As they say, the entire gentleman's set of all -terrain vehicles. However, the car definitely has its own separate charisma. Outwardly, it is less urban than its more modern competitors, there is a clear brutality and a sort of disguised aggression. Small overhangs and a decent clearance unobtrusively remind that some off-road pranks are allowed on this car.


Inside the ML 350, despite no less obvious than outside, changes look more old -fashioned. The classic front panel, as they say, without designer frills, is equally classic decoration with dark skin and wood. The assembly quality is good, the materials are very expensive to the touch. And the front panel is so soft that it is crushed even by a slight touch of the finger! When moving, the salon remains noble-grind, and only the very strong shudder of the massive body can make it speak.


In the center of the console there is a large multifunctional display, surrounded by a scattering of black buttons of different formats. The menu algorithm is simple, you can understand the functions in a matter of minutes. An elegant round circle of control of climate control control was a little lower, in each of which a red light runs. The little thing is comfortable, intuitively understandable, but: the lack of separate adjustments for front passengers surprised. The landing in the car is not at all a passenger, the driver observes the environment from the commanding position, which, of course, is a strong trump card in the city stream.


At the back there is enough space for two adults in the area of \u200b\u200bboth legs and shoulders. The back row of seats moves in the longitudinal direction, but this opportunity is unlikely to be used for the benefit of passengers, but to accommodate overall cargo, please! By the way, the back of the rear seats folds, which increases the volume of utility to 2020 liters is one of the most impressive indicators in the classroom. Transportation of equipment for hunting/fishing/skiing is clearly not a problem. True, it is somewhat frustrated by the fact that in order to access the luggage compartment, it is necessary to open two sashes, one of which in most cases is very dirty.


A new engine with a volume of four liters cannot boast of a stunning capacity of 235 hp, however, it gives out an impressive torque at 346 hm between 3000 and 4500 revolutions, which makes even such a fraud quite frisky. It cannot be said that ML 350 shoots with the new engine, however, the difference is quite noticeable compared to the 3.2-liter version, and the fact itself is not even nine-second overcoming from the place of a line of 100 km/h about something.


Paired with the motor, a well -known five -speed machine with manual gear shifts. The habits of this box are well known to fans of the M-class. In standard modes, the unit works almost impeccably, smoothly and imperceptibly smoking the gear. The transmission algorithm changes depending on the driver's requests. It is worth driving a gas pedal, and switching begins to occur at higher speeds, however, not quickly enough. Yes, the box is somewhat thoughtful. The sports regime is not provided here, but it can be implemented independently, swaying the selector left and right and choosing transfers. However, the lesson is empty, not Mercedes.


Do not forget about the off -road qualities of the car. A constant all -wheel drive with a free center differential and electronic inclusion of a reduced transmission will help you overcome most of the civilian off -road obstacles. On the move, a large SUV demonstrates imposing habits, repulsing the desire to control the machine dynamically. An empty steering wheel does not matter about the location of the front wheels. When moving in a straight line, the car does not inspire confidence in the driver, the Ryskaya on the waves and swaying at high speeds. You have to steal, but the unprotected reaction to the action of the steering wheel is smeared and somewhat ambiguous. It's time to change something! We slightly slow down the speed, leave the machine gun selector alone, make the sound of an excellent audio system louder, xenon, of course, also turn on and with a sense of dignity confidently roll to the destination, ignoring the innate features of Russian roads. A comfortable energy -intensive suspension protects them perfectly.


The new improved and supplemented ML 350 in all respects is a purebred Mercedes-Benz. Full-wheel drive, vigilant electronics, comfort and luxury in Russia in Russia such a set is appreciated.

 
Leonty Tyutelev
 

Source: Motor magazine [March 2004]