Bmw or audi?

Originally Posted by Snipe656

I look forward to seeing what you say after you have driven all the options you are considering. I happen to like the ML but think I am in the minority on that in this forum.

I'm with you on liking the new ML design both exterior and interior.
At the time I was looking for a mid-size SUV, it had to be a diesel so my only choice were x5/ML/VW. The Q7 is too big and the wife preferred a M-B but the new ML was not out yet so I leased a 2011 ML for 3 years.

If all the bugs are worked out by the time my lease is up I will likely get the W166. But by then the new x5 and maybe other brands or smaller SUV diesels will be added to the selection.

In the meantime my ML fills the need very nicely. Being the last model year all the bugs had been worked out and it came will all the bells and whistle and added luxury at a discounted price.

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Originally Posted by DC-IT

I'm with you on liking the new ML design both exterior and interior.
At the time I was looking for a mid-size SUV, it had to be a diesel so my only choice were x5/ML/VW. The Q7 is too big and the wife preferred a M-B but the new ML was not out yet so I leased a 2011 ML for 3 years.

If all the bugs are worked out by the time my lease is up I will likely get the W166. But by then the new x5 and maybe other brands or smaller SUV diesels will be added to the selection.

In the meantime my ML fills the need very nicely. Being the last model year all the bugs had been worked out and it came will all the bells and whistle and added luxury at a discounted price.

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Last Decemeber I looked at an ML BL that was the old body style and still new on the lot with a hefty discount. When the guy told me about some of the improvements the new body style had is when I decided to pass on the old. If he would have had a a new body style BL on the lot then I'd probably bought it.

I drove a used one but they wanted $50k for a 3 yr old behemouth I said no way Jose!! plus I wanted something smaller and sportier so I opted for 335d

Originally Posted by DC-IT

I'm with you on liking the new ML design both exterior and interior.
At the time I was looking for a mid-size SUV, it had to be a diesel so my only choice were x5/ML/VW. The Q7 is too big and the wife preferred a M-B but the new ML was not out yet so I leased a 2011 ML for 3 years.

If all the bugs are worked out by the time my lease is up I will likely get the W166. But by then the new x5 and maybe other brands or smaller SUV diesels will be added to the selection.

In the meantime my ML fills the need very nicely. Being the last model year all the bugs had been worked out and it came will all the bells and whistle and added luxury at a discounted price.

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DC-IT, what made you go for the ML vs the X5D?

How are you with the ML engine?

How about trunk space overall?

Thanks!

Originally Posted by Flyingman

DC-IT, what made you go for the ML vs the X5D?

How are you with the ML engine?

How about trunk space overall?

Thanks!

Here in Canada, M-B offered the ML with special packages for the 2011 final model year before the W166.
1. The Advante Garde.
2. The Grande Edition.
The Grande Edition was the top model with special two-tone 20" alloys, AMG steering wheel and the dash is finished in Artico leather with contrast stitching on the dash and seats. The side mirrors are also updated to the current versions. It also came fully loaded with NAV, rear view camera and special paint.
I went for the Grande Edition. I won't have got the ML if it was the standard model.

The BlueTec engine is well proven and reliable and the 400 lb-ft torque suits it just fine but it's not the same as our D.
The trunk space is more than adequate plus if you fold down the second row you have a humongous storage capacity.

If it were not for the Grande Edition model I would have gone with the X5.



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Flyingman, I just took a few pictures of my 2011 ML Grand Edition for you to see.
You can check it out against the normal ML. Mine is the unique Chromite Black paint with 20" bi-color alloys and black Antracite panels rather than wood.
If you can find a used one in the US it might be worth checking out as you will save a significant amount when you compare to the new model with the same features.

Very nice indeed. I like the stitched leather seats and dash.

How many miles do you have on it now and what has been it's reliability thus far?

I've put in around 25,000 miles without any issue with the diesel engine. It pulls very strong and when you punch the fuel paddle the torque kicks in to let you make a quick pass on the highway much like our D except it doesn't feel the same being a single turbo and a much heavier vehicle.
I do have an issue with the auto lighting which is common with the ML both gas and diesel.
On a bright sunny day with blue skies the headlights would often switched on and you can't turn it off!
I've brought it in to service but can't seem to get it fixed.
M-B claims its a blue-sky syndrome!lol.
Its not a safety issue just an annoyance.
Other than that it's a joy to drive on the highway (solid and instill a lot of confidence) and you can get 30+ mpg.

In Canada the MLBT comes with normal tires not rft with a repair kit.
When my lease is up in mid 2014, I'll likely buy it out if it has been reliable.

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Originally Posted by DC-IT

Other than that it's a joy to drive on the highway (solid and instill a lot of confidence) and you can get 30+ mpg.

In Canada the MLBT comes with normal tires not rft with a repair kit.
When my lease is up in mid 2014, I'll likely buy it out if it has been reliable.

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Do you get 30+ mpg averages for tanks?

I have been wondering about the newer style ML and the tires. Since I was told it does not come with RFTs any more but never actually looked at one to verify that statement.

Originally Posted by Snipe656

Do you get 30+ mpg averages for tanks?

I have been wondering about the newer style ML and the tires. Since I was told it does not come with RFTs any more but never actually looked at one to verify that statement.

No. Only on road trips. Toronto highways often get quite congested and that kills the FE.
Plus I don't use cruise control and tend to drive with a heavy foot to enjoy the benefits of the diesel TQ!
My avarage per tank as per my fuelly records are 23.8 mpg.

The new ML's DEF refill is beside the Diesel refill which is more convenient than mine.
But my ML's DEF refill is in the trunk which is actually quite easy too and certainly much easire than our D.

Originally Posted by DC-IT

.
The new ML's DEF refill is beside the Diesel refill which is more convenient than mine.
But my ML's DEF refill is in the trunk which is actually quite easy too and certainly much easire than our D.

The moving of this and therefore supposedly allowing for a spare and non RFTs was a big plus for me. It actually is what stopped me from buying the prior model

I did notice the donut spare in the center rear area, so assumed it wasn't RFTs. That would be a plus if standard. BMW would of course charge you extra to change them I assume, then you have to figure out where to put the spare kit. If you don't get the 3rd row there is a nice spot for it there underneath the rear floor.

Missus and I did the test drive of both the ML and the GL. The ML350 was gas, no diesels available and it was a 2013. The GL350 was a BlueTec but a 2012. Again, no MB Diesels out for 2013 yet.

The GL was very nicely equipped and after comparing the two models we really prefer the GL size. Price difference after USAA Discount and end of MY got the GL down to about $63K while the similarly equipped but not as "rugged" ML was in the $53k range. For $10k more I think it is well worth it to step up to the larger vehicle we really originally wanted.

I have to say I think MB has done a pretty good job on these newer models. Looks, function, utility, etc... Finish also looked to be quite good.

Let's see if they deal.

Flyingman
You should check out the 2013 GL even if it's the gas model to see the upgraded interior and exterior.
It's worth waiting for the new MY BlueTec and you may regret getting the out going model.
The higher HP and torque on the new diesel power train would benefit the larger GL.

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Patience is a virtue.

The 2013 Diesels won't be out till 1st Qtr 2013.

I think we'll wait. One major change is electric steering across the fleet. It is trully amazing to see all of the technology being packed into the new model vehicles now days.

Collision avoidance, lane change control, dowsiness control, heck they are even offering vibrating massage seats now!

Originally Posted by DC-IT

Flyingman
You should check out the 2013 GL even if it's the gas model to see the upgraded interior and exterior.
It's worth waiting for the new MY BlueTec and you may regret getting the out going model.
The higher HP and torque on the new diesel power train would benefit the larger GL.

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Is the GL actually getting the revised BT engine that the ML and S have? I only ask because seemed like the E class did not get it for some reason.

I think the only problem with holding out for the 2013 MY is they are not going to deal much at all on them. The 2012 they will.

I agree, they won't be dealing much, at first. Might have to wait until well into the year to see what breaks I can get.

We were really quite fond of the GL. I test drove it and the power was ample, only little hesitation.

I also think their MPG is a bit understated, certainly appears to be the case when I look at what is posted for actuals on Fuelly. Avg in the 22mpg range, city/hwy, is pretty darn good for this rather heavy vehicle.

My Tahoe got about 12mpg city and 18 hwy with RWD. Of course it had fantastic acceleration with the 5.3l V-8.

Decisions, decisions.

Reported to have an improved version of the Blue tec in the 2013. A bit more HP and Torque, with some better efficiency.

Not a lot of changes otherwise. I think I can wait!

The engine choice for 2013 is arguably the best reason owners of the first-gen GL may consider trading up. Our "new" favorite, the base GL350, has a turbocharged, 3.0-liter Bluetec diesel V6. It has more power and is more fuel-efficient than the outgoing diesel. It's rated to produce as much as 240 horsepower and 455 pound-feet of torque.

While the EPA mileage hasn't been announced, we got a startling 23.5 mpg - assuming we can believe the trip computer - over a 200-mile loop that included lots of desert and mountain driving from Santa Fe, New Mexico, to Taos and back. With a 26.4-gallon tank, Mercedes says to expect a range of 600-700 miles.

Originally Posted by Flyingman

Reported to have an improved version of the Blue tec in the 2013. A bit more HP and Torque, with some better efficiency.

Not a lot of changes otherwise. I think I can wait!

The engine choice for 2013 is arguably the best reason owners of the first-gen GL may consider trading up. Our "new" favorite, the base GL350, has a turbocharged, 3.0-liter Bluetec diesel V6. It has more power and is more fuel-efficient than the outgoing diesel. It's rated to produce as much as 240 horsepower and 455 pound-feet of torque.

While the EPA mileage hasn't been announced, we got a startling 23.5 mpg - assuming we can believe the trip computer - over a 200-mile loop that included lots of desert and mountain driving from Santa Fe, New Mexico, to Taos and back. With a 26.4-gallon tank, Mercedes says to expect a range of 600-700 miles.

From what I remember it is actually the same engine but they are using some special block coating they had just used in AMG engines. The coating being used to raise the efficiency of the engine and end result is better mpg and power.

It has been a couple years but I used to know someone with a GL BT and I remember him telling me he was getting low to mid 20s just around town. I can't recall the exact number he said but I was amazed when he said it and it was a good bit over what they are rated at. But of course I have read countless times that the way the EPA rates mpg for diesels is flawed and that is why they all seem to get better mpg ratings for owners.

Originally Posted by Flyingman

Reported to have an improved version of the Blue tec in the 2013. A bit more HP and Torque, with some better efficiency.

Not a lot of changes otherwise. I think I can wait!

The engine choice for 2013 is arguably the best reason owners of the first-gen GL may consider trading up. Our "new" favorite, the base GL350, has a turbocharged, 3.0-liter Bluetec diesel V6. It has more power and is more fuel-efficient than the outgoing diesel. It's rated to produce as much as 240 horsepower and 455 pound-feet of torque.

While the EPA mileage hasn't been announced, we got a startling 23.5 mpg - assuming we can believe the trip computer - over a 200-mile loop that included lots of desert and mountain driving from Santa Fe, New Mexico, to Taos and back. With a 26.4-gallon tank, Mercedes says to expect a range of 600-700 miles.

That's awesome. I remember the old GL BT was rather pathetically slow in such a huge beast. 240hp and that much torque should liven it up.

Originally Posted by Flyingman

Reported to have an improved version of the Blue tec in the 2013. A bit more HP and Torque, with some better efficiency.

Not a lot of changes otherwise. I think I can wait!

The engine choice for 2013 is arguably the best reason owners of the first-gen GL may consider trading up. Our "new" favorite, the base GL350, has a turbocharged, 3.0-liter Bluetec diesel V6. It has more power and is more fuel-efficient than the outgoing diesel. It's rated to produce as much as 240 horsepower and 455 pound-feet of torque.

While the EPA mileage hasn't been announced, we got a startling 23.5 mpg - assuming we can believe the trip computer - over a 200-mile loop that included lots of desert and mountain driving from Santa Fe, New Mexico, to Taos and back. With a 26.4-gallon tank, Mercedes says to expect a range of 600-700 miles.

Update, the wait is over. I'm about to pull the trigger on a new 2013 GL350 Bluetec. I've found one that is moderately loaded, as the price can skyrocket with the available options on this beast. I'm going through USAA Buyers Service so getting a decent discount, a low APR with a further reduction in APR if I set up automatic payment. It is about 2.0% for 60 months, so tough to beat that.

After much debate with the missus over the more practical and affordable X5D, she won out on the GL350. Truth is we really like the extra space the X5 just can't begin to offer. If it was going to be my car, I would have gotten the X5D, but alas, this is for the soccer mom and of course for our bi-annual treks out of Florida.

So far the GL350 has been getting great reviews and I certainly like the looks. HP is upped about 30 more plus about 55 more ft/lbs of torque. EPA is showing 17/21 but folks are reporting closer to 22 combined with up to 26 Hwy.

Last chance if anybody wants to try and talk me out of this!

Is that rate via USAA or MBZ Financial? I am assuming USAA since it seems pretty good and how you worded your post.

Have you driven one of these much? I can't get past the way they shift, bugs me to all ends but that is just me being me.

Congrats man! I've always loved the Benz diesels growing up as a kid and seeing my dad own many of them.

Only thing about the GL350 is that it's a pretty heavy truck but probably not that much more than an Xd I'd guess.

Arron, I just did a test drive of an ML and a GL. I did not like the way the turn signal was mounted on the 2012 model. They improved this in 2013.

I liked the ride but it was rather short. I didn't really notice any particular issue with the shifting. I know the turbo lag is much more than our Ds.

The interest rate is indeed from USAA. Their Car Buying Service is really nice. It is one stop shopping, pick out your car, apply for loan, get immediate approval, and also get your insurance quote, all in one fell swoop. Print out your certificate, loan approval, and instructions and go pick out your car. No haggling over the price, other than the extra options.

Right now I'm dickering with the internet sales rep over some extras. They have a vehicle that closely matches my requirements, will have to install a few at the dealer, but I'm asking for a break on those options that come with the car I really dont need, like headlight washers and few others.

I'm suffering some sticker shock right now. Definietly the most expensive car I've ever owned (soon).

The shifting issue I noticed in all the MBZ Blutecs I drove. It is more of a not shifting issue though. Get on the freeway doing around 60 or so then roll into the throttle, they will not downshift and I find that foreign behavior and it really bugs me. They accelerate but I am used to cars downshifting when apply that sort of throttle level. A sales guy will say it is because of the torque but I am not buying that reason since driven plenty of other diesels that did downshift. Now to be honest last December I decided I just need to learn to live with that and was going to buy a ML Bluetec but that one vehicle sold before I decided and if buying then I had to buy in the 2012 tax season. I really wanted to get an ML550 but only one I found on a lot had almost every option and was a good $15k more than I was willing to pay.

I'd be curious to know how much you are saving on purchase price via USAA. I have been considering setting up an account with them specifically to end up using their car buying services. I think I can setup a financial account and not have to change insurance providers but not looked hard into it yet.