Smarticus
Member Since: 26 May 2005
Location: Northumberland
Posts: 939
 
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| RRS TDv6 v new ML 320 cdi | |
A friend of mine recently took delivery of a new ML 320 Cdi (despite me trying to convince him that LR was the way to go). Took said ML out for a decent drive yesterday and was impressed by certain things. The best feature by far is the engine. That is a stonking diesel block that produces bags of very useable grunt in a no nonsense, honest kind of way. The TDv6 feels a bit anemic by comparison - and more highly strung.
Other thoughts on the ML were - poor gearbox, not nearly as smooth or sorted as the RRS. The ML didn't seem to choose the best gear and noticeably hunted around for gears. The gear lever is on the steering column, which is a good feature, but the space saved on the centre console is not used at all imaginatively. The doors feel quite light weight on the ML, not as solid or clunky on the RRS. The styling is a bit form over function (the windows look too small, especiallly the rear side window). The suspension and ride, whilst light years ahead of the old M Class, isn't quite as good as the RRS. And finally, even on a high spec model the wheels and tyres are disappointing. Totally wet road biased tyres - no pretence at all to cope with mud or snow, and the wheels are only 17 inch.
Overall, I wouldn't want one and am happier with a LR product, but I would love a diesel engine with that level of grunt. I'll put my order in for a v8 diesel as soon as the book opens 
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Sun Jan 15 2006 6:48pm |
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I have never been a fan of the ML it's just dull and costs to much to make it better. The old ML basic models had an interior no better than some South Korean cars.
