The 2015 Mercedes-benz Ml350 stands out as a compelling luxury SUV, offering a blend of comfort, technology, and performance. Building upon the foundation of the previous year’s models, the ML350 provides a comprehensive suite of standard features and a wide array of optional packages to tailor the vehicle to individual preferences. Let’s delve into a detailed exploration of what makes the 2015 ML350 a noteworthy contender in its class.
The base ML250, while not the focus here, provides a useful starting point for understanding the ML-Class. It comes equipped with 18-inch wheels, adaptive suspension dampers, and LED lighting for both running lights and taillights. Practicality is enhanced with automatic wipers, a sunroof, roof rails, and a power liftgate. The interior prioritizes comfort and convenience with dual-zone automatic climate control, cruise control, and elegant wood trim. The driver benefits from a manual tilt-and-telescoping leather-wrapped steering wheel and eight-way power front seats, including four-way power lumbar support, along with heated front seats. Rear passengers are accommodated with reclining 60/40-split folding seats. Mercedes-Benz’s MB-Tex premium vinyl upholstery is standard, with optional leather upgrades available. Technology highlights include the COMAND electronics interface navigated through a 7-inch color display, the Mercedes mbrace2 communications system with smartphone integration, Bluetooth connectivity for phone and audio, and an eight-speaker sound system featuring HD radio, a USB port, and an auxiliary audio jack. A full suite of standard safety features further enhances the appeal of this model.
The 2015 Mercedes-Benz ML350 elevates the standard equipment, most notably upgrading to 19-inch wheels, setting it apart visually and potentially influencing handling dynamics. For buyers seeking even more features, the Premium 1 package is a popular choice for both the ML250 and ML350. This package adds valuable enhancements such as a rearview camera, power-folding exterior mirrors, and auto-dimming for both rearview and driver-side mirrors. Driver seat adjustments become even more comprehensive with a 10-way power seat including four-way power lumbar support, complemented by a power tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel and driver memory functions. Practicality is further enhanced with double sun visors and a rear 115-volt household-style power outlet. Navigation is integrated into the COMAND system, along with voice command functionality, satellite radio, and an iPod interface.
For those desiring a sportier aesthetic, the Sport package for the ML250 and ML350 adds AMG exterior trim and the option of either 19-inch or 20-inch AMG wheels, enhancing the visual appeal and road presence of the vehicle.
Stepping up in the range, the ML400 incorporates the standard equipment of the ML350 along with the Premium 1 package features and introduces a more powerful turbocharged engine. Keyless ignition and entry add convenience, while a 13-speaker Harman Kardon sound system elevates the audio experience. Leather seating, heated and cooled cupholders, multicolor interior ambient lighting, and the Lane Tracking package (including blind spot and lane-departure warning systems) further enhance the luxury and technology offerings.
Beyond these packages, numerous individual options and packages allow for extensive customization. The Lighting package enhances visibility with adaptive bi-xenon headlights and automatic high-beam control. The Driver Assistance package provides advanced safety and convenience features, including adaptive cruise control and an enhanced version of the Lane Tracking package. Parking becomes easier with the Parking Assist package, which includes front and rear parking sensors, an automated parallel parking system, and a surround-view parking camera. For those anticipating off-road adventures, the On/Off-Road package (available for ML350 and ML400) features an adaptive suspension with air springs (Airmatic), a two-speed transfer case, a six-mode terrain selector, and underbody skid plates. Airmatic suspension is also available as a standalone option for enhanced ride comfort.
The Convenience package focuses on passenger comfort with heated and cooled cupholders, second-row sunshades, and a center armrest pass-through. The Interior Sport package offers front sport seats, unique seat trim options (simulated suede on ML250/350, Napa leather on ML400), and a sport steering wheel for a more dynamic driving environment. Audiophiles can opt for the high-end 14-speaker Bang & Olufsen BeoSound audio system for an exceptional in-car listening experience.
At the top of the range, the ML 63 AMG delivers high performance with a turbocharged V8 engine, an AMG-tuned Airmatic suspension with adaptive stabilizer bars, exclusive 20-inch AMG wheels, special leather upholstery, sport seats with ventilation, and unique AMG styling elements. It includes the Premium 1, Lighting, Lane Tracking, and Parking Assist packages as standard, with the Driver Assistance package available as an option. The AMG Performance package further boosts engine output and top speed, adding red-painted brake calipers and a carbon-fiber engine cover. Optional 21-inch AMG wheels and other features from lower trims are also available.
Individual options for the 2015 Mercedes-Benz ML350 and other models in the range include the Active Curve handling enhancement system, a trailer hitch, a panoramic sunroof, running boards, keyless ignition and entry, three-zone climate control, “multicontour” front seats with adjustable bolsters and massage functions, ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, a heated steering wheel, a dual-screen rear-seat entertainment system, enhanced iPhone connectivity controls (Drive Kit Plus), and a Splitview display for the COMAND system.
In conclusion, the 2015 Mercedes-Benz ML350 offers a well-rounded luxury SUV experience with a strong foundation of standard features and a vast selection of optional packages and individual upgrades. Whether prioritizing comfort, technology, sporty aesthetics, or off-road capability, the ML350 provides a customizable platform to meet diverse needs and preferences within the luxury SUV segment.
