The 2012 Mercedes Ml Class marked a significant step in luxury SUVs, offering a blend of comfort, performance, and advanced technology. This model year presented a variety of trims and an extensive list of optional features, allowing buyers to tailor their vehicle to their specific needs and preferences. Let’s delve into the details of what made the 2012 ML Class a compelling choice in its segment.
Standard Features Across the ML350 and ML350 Bluetec
The foundation of the 2012 ML Class range was laid by the ML350 and ML350 Bluetec models, which shared a comprehensive list of standard equipment. These included 19-inch wheels that provided a confident stance and smooth ride, complemented by a sunroof to bring in natural light and a power liftgate for ease of access to the cargo area. Fog lamps enhanced visibility in adverse conditions, while dual-zone automatic climate control ensured personalized comfort for both the driver and front passenger.
Inside the cabin, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel offered adjustability for optimal driving position, and eight-way power/heated front seats wrapped in MB-Tex premium vinyl upholstery provided both support and comfort. Rear passengers benefited from reclining seats, adding to the overall passenger experience. The COMAND electronics interface served as the central hub for vehicle controls and entertainment, integrating Bluetooth connectivity, the TeleAid emergency telematics service for added safety, and an eight-speaker sound system. This audio setup included HD radio, a CD player, and USB/auxiliary jacks, catering to various audio sources.
Image alt text: Front view of a 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC (W 166) highlighting its front grille and headlights.
Upgrading to the ML550 and Available Options
Stepping up to the ML550 trim brought further enhancements, including distinctive 19-inch AMG wheels for a sportier aesthetic and running boards for easier entry and exit. A trailer hitch added towing capability, and rear seat side airbags enhanced passenger safety. Importantly, beyond the wheels, all of these upgrades were available as options on the ML350 trims, allowing buyers to customize their base models with premium features.
Mercedes-Benz offered a range of packages to streamline the customization process. The popular Premium 1 package included a rearview camera for enhanced parking and maneuvering, power-folding mirrors, and auto-dimming rearview and sideview mirrors for added convenience. Driver memory functions, a navigation system, voice controls, satellite radio, an iPod interface, and 10GB of digital music storage were also part of this package, significantly upgrading the in-car technology.
The Premium 2 package expanded upon Premium 1, adding keyless ignition/entry for seamless vehicle access, heated/cooled cupholders for temperature-controlled beverages, a high-fidelity Harman Kardon surround-sound audio system for an immersive listening experience, and ambient cabin lighting to create a refined interior atmosphere.
Image alt text: Interior view of a 2012 Mercedes-Benz M-Class W166 showcasing the dashboard, seats, and center console.
Further Customization with Dynamic Handling and Advanced Tech Packages
For those seeking enhanced driving dynamics, the Dynamic Handling package provided 20-inch alloy wheels and an advanced air suspension system. This system featured adaptive dampers and stabilizer bars, contributing to improved handling and ride comfort in various driving conditions. The Lighting package focused on visibility, incorporating adaptive bi-xenon headlights with washers for superior illumination and corner-illuminating lights that enhanced visibility during turns.
Safety-conscious buyers could opt for the Lane Tracking package, which included blind-spot warning and lane departure warning systems to help prevent accidents. The Driver Assistance package took safety a step further, adding active cruise control with active PreSafe braking to the Lane Tracking package contents. This system could automatically adjust speed to maintain a safe distance and even initiate braking in emergency situations. For those anticipating off-road adventures, an off-road package with selectable terrain modes was slated to debut later in the model year, further expanding the versatility of the 2012 ML Class.
Standalone Options for Personalized Luxury
Beyond packages, a host of individual options allowed for highly personalized configurations. A panoramic sunroof created an open and airy cabin feel, while active park assist simplified parking in tight spaces. A night vision camera enhanced visibility in low-light conditions. For passenger comfort, triple-zone climate control allowed for independent temperature settings for rear occupants, and full leather seating, ventilated front seats, and heated rear seats elevated the interior luxury. A rear seat entertainment system kept rear passengers engaged on longer journeys, and two-tone leather upholstery and various cabin accents (metallic and wood) provided further aesthetic customization.
The High-Performance ML63 AMG
At the top of the 2012 ML Class lineup sat the ML63 AMG, a performance-oriented variant. It boasted a twin-turbo V8 engine, active roll stabilization for enhanced cornering, stronger brakes for confident stopping power, and an AMG-tuned suspension and steering for a sportier driving experience. Visually, it stood out with 20-inch wheels, special leather upholstery, sport seats, and unique AMG styling elements both inside and out. Many premium features were standard on the ML63 AMG, including the Premium 2, Lighting, and Lane Tracking packages. For ultimate performance, the AMG Performance package was optional, further increasing engine output and raising the top speed. Optional 21-inch AMG wheels and most of the other trims’ extra equipment were also available, allowing for further personalization even at the top of the range.
In conclusion, the 2012 Mercedes ML Class offered a wide spectrum of features and options, from the well-equipped ML350 to the high-performance ML63 AMG, ensuring there was a configuration to meet diverse needs and preferences in the luxury SUV market.
