Mercedes-Benz ML350 2012 Review

We turn the spotlight on the car world's newest and brightest stars as we ask the questions to which you want the answers. But there's only one question that really needs answering -- would you buy one?

What is it?

This is the upmarket diesel Benz ML, generation three of the big US-built SUV. It's new from the wheels up with more kit, more room, better drive feel, luxury - everything.

How much?

This one goes for $99,900 - of which 17 grand is GST and Luxury Car Tax. If Benz could have squeezed 0.3 litres/100km more out of the engine, there would have been less LCT.

What are competitors?

BMW X5, Audi Q7 and now diesel Infiniti FX.

What's under the bonnet?

A wonderfully punchy 3.0-litre, V6 turbodiesel with variable nozzle turbo. Drive is permanent all wheel drive through a seven-speed auto. An AdBlue tank feeds urea into the exhaust to minimise emissions.

How does it go?

Like a train. There's 190Kw/620Nm available from low in the rev range to give performance on par with a big petrol V8 - with four cylinder fuel economy. Competent off road too.

Is it economical?

Amazingly so - rated at 7.3-litres/100km. It gives a range of over 1000km from the 93 litre tank.

Is it green?

Extremely - passes Euro 6 regulations not due for implementation until 2014. Extensive fuel/emissions reducing technology like friction optimised bearings, decoupling ancillaries, low friction axle drives, low rolling resistance tyres. Eco stop/start.

Is it safe?

Five star with a bullet thanks to clever technology like lane keeping assist, blind spot warning, reverse camera, pre-safe collision preparation, attention assist.

Is it comfortable?

Similar luxury feel as big S-Class and E-Class Benz sedans. Minimal noise, vibration, harshness. Plenty of luxury kit, killer audio, leather, electric assistance left, right and centre, clever lighting package, rake adjust rear seats, big multi-media screen.

What's it like to drive?

Impressive, especially the get go from that turbodiesel engine - whoosh. Has a more sporty nature than expected, decent handling, quite nimble for a 2.0+ tonne SUV.

Is it value for money?

Would be if you could avoid the tax element. Fairly generous standard equipment, 20-inch alloys.

Would we buy one?

Absolutely...luxurious family vehicle, goes like the clappers, looks classy and uses minimal fuel.

Mercedes-Benz ML350 Bluetec

Price: from $99,900
Warranty: 3 years roadside assist
Weight: 2175kg
Engine: 3-litre, 6-cylinder turbo-diesel, 190kW/620Nm
Transmission: 7-speed sports auto, constant 4WD
Thirst: 7.3L/100Km, CO2 192g/km