Used 2014 Mercedes Benz ML 350 4MATIC

Most SUVs can promise a quiet interior and a smooth ride, but try and find one that can claim a 174-mph top speed on the autobahn or deliver up enough low-end torque to shame a Chevy pickup. With a 7,200-pound tow rating, the M-Class can actually carry its own weight and then some. Strong and fuel-efficient diesel V6; seriously quick turbocharged V8s; serene ride; rich interior trim; roomy backseat; short braking distances. Trouble free? Not completely, but there is good news. First problem was the air conditioning simply stopped making cold air one day. Called the dealer, they said come right on in, and by the time I got there the A/C was doing fine again. Despite that, they flushed and filled the A/C with fresh coolant on the premise it might have been a bit of contamination, no charge. covered under warranty.. The second incident was similar - Got caught short and had to buy some brand X gas to get home. About 50 miles down the road the gas gauge went to 0. Stopped and topped up, went to the dealer the next day who told me what I expected: Stuck fuel float due to contamination. What I didn't expect was a repair under warranty - They told me the float should have been able to handle the guck. They dropped the tank and cleaned it, replaced the fuel filter, flushed the fuel lines & injectors and even gave me a fresh tank of gas under warranty. Having dealt with warranty claim dodging makers in the past, I was impressed. So, where am I? Over 60K miles, a car that drives like new with no problems and moderate maintenance costs (yes, moderate), an SUV that is decently quick, reasonably good handling, quiet and comfortable and that delivers reasonable fuel economy compared to other SUV's of similar size and capability. My only complaint is, the steering is a bit numb, especially at low speeds. You can spin the wheel with one finger when parking, and feel improves with speed as the amount of boost cuts back, but I'd still be OK with a bit less boost overall. Will I buy another one? Maybe. I am still on the original brakes, shocks, belts and hoses and just mounted the third set of tires. That despite use on Forest Service trails, ski trips, hauling and trailer towing. Maybe it will wear out some day (prior MB lasted over 430K miles before needing a transmission overhaul) but no time soon from what I am seeing. This one never quits.

• Automatic temperature control
• Emergency communication system
• Wireless phone connectivity
• Front dual zone A/C
• Rain sensing wipers
• Speed sensitive wipers
• Split folding rear seat
• Heated front seats
• Perimeter/approach lights
• Remote keyless entry
• Steering wheel mounted audio controls
• Rear window wiper
• Alloy wheels
• Power liftgate
• Roof rack: rails only
• DVD-Audio
• CD player
• ABS brakes
• Traction control
• Tilt steering wheel
• Security system

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