Check the Features wise Comparison of Mercedes Benz ML350 and BMW X5

With the all new third generation Mercedes Benz ML350 launched on 15^th May, 2012, the premium SUV segment has just got intensified. Already present in the Indian luxury auto market, BMW X5 and Audi Q7 will make life of the new Merc monster really tough. The three point star company has designed ML350’s outfit in an elegant manner along with an exhausting feature list. On the other hand the apex luxury auto company in the world, BMW has been able to draw premium crossover enthusiasts with its fabulous X series. Out of the lot BMW X5 has been selling in good numbers compared to other vehicles of similar range. Let’s checkout  2012 Mercedes Benz ML350 VS BMW X5 on the basis of following factors:-

Exteriors:-

Mercedes Benz ML350 boasts of beautiful aerodynamics. With higher tensile steel body, Merc SUV can take the worst mishaps with utmost resistance. Front fascia is broad with wide front grill having the three point star neatly tucked in and soothing powerful headlamps. Like its E-Class cousin, day time running LEDs are separately installed. The stylish 20 inch alloy wheels are able to leave a mark on the onlookers.

BMW X5 displays bold character with distinct tough body. The terrific vehicle instinctively draws gazes wherever it goes. Its long wheelbase, short overhangs and powerful contours express its elegantly sporting nature. Prominent lines and carved edges are testament to the BMW X5′s unmistakable presence and elegance. The muscular, sculpted bonnet is a clear indication of the power that lies beneath while the dynamically contoured sides and L-shape rear lights with LED technology underscore the vehicle’s elegance.

Outer sculpting of both the Pullmans is extraordinary but somehow the Bavarian beau has a slight edge over its German counterpart.

Interiors:-

Mercedes Benz ML350 body is equally adorable and comfortable from inside. With the increased dimensions, plenty of space is liberated inside the cabin which imbibes a feel of relaxation. Power bucket front seats along with new exciting features fill the interior with thrill. With an array of features you can choose from, the premium crossover is just the right vehicle for big shots wanting luxury tripper.

Every sight seems to be worth watching when you are seeing it from the exclusive cabin of BMW X5. Fine woods, premium leathers and discreet metal elements create an atmosphere of refined luxury.   Intelligently positioned storage compartments and the ergonomically designed instrument panel provide user-friendly solutions to all of your needs. The optional and innovative Head-Up Display shows relevant information, for example current speed, directly in the driver’s field of vision. Certainly, Germans are the masters when it comes to cabin styling.

In the interior section, we rate Merc ML350 one to be a little better than BMW X5.

Engine, Specifications & Performance:-

Under the sophisticated hood of Merc ML350 rests a 3.0-litre turbo V6 ‘Bluetec 4-matic’ diesel engine which belts out 258 bhp of top power at 3600 rpm along with exceptional torque of 619 Nm at 1600 rpm – 2400 rpm. The bulky powermill is mated to 7-G Tronic Plus automatic gearbox.

Mercedes Benz ML350 CDI sprints from 0-100 kmph in scary 7.4 seconds with a top speed of 224 kmph.

The all new BMW X5 is available in 3.0 litre, 2993cc, 6 cylinder, in-line diesel engine and 4395cc, BMW TwinPower Turbo V8 petrol engine. The diesel engine offers an impressive power of 245 bhp at 4000 rpm and belts out ultimate torque of 540 Nm at 1750-3000 rpm. While the petrol engine delivers maximum power of 407 bhp at 5500-6400 rpm and peak torque of 600 Nm at 1750-4500 rpm. Both the engines are mated to a Steptronic 8 speed automatic gearbox.

BMW X5 accelerates from 0-100 kmph in mere 5.5 seconds with a top speed of 250 kmph.

Clearly, Merc ML350 has more powerful engine than the X5. Hence, the three point star is the winner of this segment.

Features:-

Merc ML350 is packed with host of exotic features which include Intelligent Light System, Speed Limit Assist, Distronic Plus adaptive cruise control, Night View Assist Plus with automatic person recognition, Lane Keeping Assist, Active Park Assist, Blind Spot Assist, Electric speed-proportional power steering, AM/FM in-dash single CD/DVD with CD MP3 Playback stereo, Tilt and telescopic steering wheel, Transmission and audio controls mounted on steering, Turn signal in mirrors, Dual zone climate controls – driver and passenger, 3-Zone Automatic Climate Control (SPC), Speed sensitive volume control, Alloy and wood trim on center console, etc.

BMW X5 is packed with plenty of power outside mirrors, intermittent rain-sensing windshield wipers, rear window wiper/washer, roof rails, power windows, power door locks, and vehicle and key memory. Optional panoramic moon-roof is available in 3.0d variant with two-piece glass panels, power slide and lift control, wind deflector, and an electric interior sunshade. Power adjustable seats, adjustable upper backrest segment, adjustable backrest width and lumbar support all add to the comfort features list of BMW X5. Entertainment features include anti-theft AM/FM stereo CD radio with Radio Data System, MP3 capability and a 3-channel FM diversity antenna system. Dynamic cruise control, front and rear park distance control, automatic front climate control, automatic air-conditioning, and recirculation control also make up for a huge list of convenient features.

It’s a tie in feature list as both have sufficient features.

Mileage:-

2012 Mercedes Benz ML350 offers impressive overall mileage of 10-12 kmpl. BMW X5 returns with fuel efficiency of 6-10 kmpl in petrol version while 9-13.5 kmpl with its diesel version.

Price:-

The premium vehicle form Merc is priced at Rs 66 lakh whereas the Bavarian fantasy is tagged in the price bracket of Rs 54.09 lakh – Rs 69.50 lakh depending on variants (ex-showroom New Delhi).

Verdict:-

It’s a tough call to choose from two German crossovers. Both the cars have got enough that you won’t be disappointed on buying either. The winner of this comparison from our side is Mercedes Benz ML350 for its unmatchable comfort and power however, BMW X5 cannot be completely ruled out.

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