The 2013 Mercedes-Benz ML350 stands as a testament to luxury and versatility in the SUV market. This model is well-equipped with a range of standard features designed to enhance comfort, convenience, and driving pleasure. Let’s delve into what makes the ML350 a compelling choice for discerning drivers.
Standard Features of the 2013 ML350
The base ML350 and ML350 Bluetec models share a comprehensive list of standard equipment, starting with the exterior and moving inwards to technology and comfort.
Exterior and Wheels:
Rolling on standard 19-inch wheels, the ML350 makes a strong visual statement. A sunroof comes standard, inviting natural light into the cabin and offering an open-air feel. Practicality is addressed with a power liftgate for easy access to the cargo area and foglamps for enhanced visibility in adverse weather conditions.
Interior Comfort and Convenience:
Inside, the ML350 prioritizes comfort with dual-zone automatic climate control, ensuring both driver and passengers can set their preferred temperatures. The tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel allows drivers to find their ideal driving position. Eight-way power-adjustable and heated front seats offer personalized comfort for those in the front, while reclining rear seats add to passenger relaxation. Premium vinyl upholstery provides a durable and elegant touch to the interior.
Technology and Entertainment:
The COMAND electronics interface serves as the central hub for managing vehicle functions and entertainment. Mercedes’ mbrace2 telematics system adds a layer of connectivity and safety features. Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity enable hands-free communication and wireless music streaming. An eight-speaker sound system with HD radio, a CD player, and USB/auxiliary jacks caters to various audio sources.
Available Upgrades and Packages for the ML350
For those seeking even more features, Mercedes-Benz offered a range of packages and standalone options to customize the 2013 ML350.
Stepping Up to the ML550 and Beyond:
The ML550 trim level builds upon the ML350, adding sporty 19-inch AMG wheels and practical running boards for easier entry and exit. A trailer hitch expands the vehicle’s utility, and rear seat side airbags enhance passenger safety. Importantly, most of these upgrades available on the ML550 could also be added as options to the ML350, allowing for a tailored configuration.
Premium 1 Package:
The popular Premium 1 package significantly enhances the ML350’s features. It includes a rearview camera, greatly aiding in parking and maneuvering. Power-folding and auto-dimming mirrors add convenience and safety. A power tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel with driver memory functions elevates the driving experience, allowing multiple drivers to save their preferred settings. Double sun visors improve sun glare protection. Navigation system, a 115-volt household power outlet, satellite radio, an iPod interface, and a six-CD/DVD changer significantly upgrade the in-car technology and entertainment.
Lighting and Lane Tracking Packages:
The Lighting package enhances visibility with adaptive bi-xenon headlights that adjust to driving conditions. The Lane Tracking package focuses on safety, incorporating blind-spot warning and lane departure warning and assist systems to help prevent accidents.
Driver Assistance and On/Off-Road Packages:
Building upon the Lane Tracking package, the Driver Assistance package adds adaptive cruise control with active PreSafe braking, further enhancing safety and driver assistance features. For those planning to venture off the paved road, the On/Off-Road package provides significant capability upgrades, including an adaptive air ride suspension for adjustable ride height and comfort, a two-speed transfer case for enhanced off-road traction, a six-mode terrain selector to optimize vehicle settings for various surfaces, and underbody skid plates for protection.
Standalone Options for Personalization:
Beyond packages, a wide array of individual options allowed buyers to personalize their ML350 to a high degree. These included a panoramic sunroof for an expansive open-sky view, front and rear parking sensors to complement the rearview camera, and a night vision camera for enhanced visibility in low-light conditions. Triple-zone climate control provides customized temperature settings for rear passengers. For ultimate luxury, full leather seating, ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, and multicontour front seats with massage functions were available. A rear seat entertainment system could keep passengers entertained on long journeys. Two-tone leather upholstery and various cabin accents, including metallic and wood trims, offered further aesthetic customization.
The High-Performance ML63 AMG
For drivers prioritizing high performance, the ML63 AMG represented the pinnacle of the M-Class range. It boasts a twin-turbo V8 engine, active roll stabilization for enhanced handling, stronger brakes, and an AMG-tuned suspension and steering for a sportier driving experience. Visually, it stands out with 20-inch wheels, special leather upholstery, sport seats, and unique AMG styling elements both inside and out. Many premium features like the Premium 1, Lighting, and Lane Tracking packages came standard on the ML63 AMG. The optional AMG Performance package further boosted engine output and increased the top speed. Optional 21-inch AMG wheels and other features available on lower trims were also offered, allowing for customization even within this high-performance model.
Conclusion: The Versatile and Feature-Rich 2013 Mercedes-Benz ML350
The 2013 Mercedes-Benz ML350 offered a compelling blend of luxury, versatility, and performance. With a generous list of standard features and a wide range of available options and packages, buyers could tailor this SUV to perfectly match their needs and preferences. Whether prioritizing comfort, technology, off-road capability, or high-performance driving, the 2013 ML350 and its M-Class siblings provided a premium SUV experience.
