The all new 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML 350 has been thoroughly reworked in just about every aspect to make it a formidable contender in the premium SUV space

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Now in its third generation avatar, the all new 2012 ML has been transformed into a formidable package boasting of upgrades and improvements in just about every department. While its predecessor did face criticism for niggling quality related issues, Mercedes-Benz has obviously not taken the feedback lightly and the new luxury SUV is a testament to the quintessential build that one has come to expect from the three point star.

Exteriors: Striking, big and aggressive

To start with, the new ML 350 comes with higher tensile steel for added strength and reduced weight. The vehicle is longer, wider and slightly lower (ride height is electronically controlled and the suspension can be raised at a click of a button for off roading applications) than its predecessor, however the distinct design of the ML has been retained with small changes to profile lines, headlights, a flatter roofline to reduce the coefficient of drag and an all new front grille, which gives it an aggressive stance and looks that are worth drooling over. Having said that, its silhouette hasn’t changed and therefore you won’t confuse it for anything but an ML.

Interiors: Airy, plush and well appointed

The interiors on the ML 350 have been spruced up to offer a finer finish that exudes a sense of solid build quality. The cabin has been designed to pamper your senses and most materials feel expensive. The airy interiors imbibe a plush up market feel even for the second row passengers and the well contoured front seats also offer a commanding view leaving you feeling as though you command the road, not just drive on it. The only grouse I had with the interiors was the use of the faux-wood on the dash as the texture shouldn’t have been as plastic to the touch.

In terms of gizmos and gadgets, the ML 350 does come with a fair share of devices including the, ECO start/stop function, reversing camera, THERMOTRONIC Auto Climate Control, media interface, memory seats and an electric sunroof.