The 2015 Mercedes-Benz M-Class, particularly the 2015 Mercedes-Benz ML 350, stands out as a compelling luxury SUV, blending comfort, performance, and a suite of technology features. Building upon the foundation of the ML250 and extending towards the higher performance AMG models, the ML350 offers a balanced approach appealing to a broad spectrum of drivers. This article delves into the specifics of the 2015 ML350, outlining its standard equipment, available packages, and highlighting the key differentiators within the M-Class lineup.
The entry-level ML250, replacing the previous year’s ML350 Bluetec, sets a high standard with a comprehensive list of standard features. These include 18-inch wheels providing a confident stance and comfortable ride, adaptive suspension dampers that automatically adjust to road conditions for optimized handling and comfort, and distinctive LED running lights and taillights enhancing visibility and modern aesthetics. Convenience is further addressed with automatic wipers, a sunroof to brighten the cabin, practical roof rails for additional cargo solutions, and a power liftgate for ease of access to the cargo area.
Standard 18-inch wheels on the 2015 Mercedes-Benz ML-Class provide a balance of style and ride comfort.
Inside the 2015 Mercedes-Benz ML 350 and ML250, the cabin prioritizes comfort and convenience. Dual-zone automatic climate control ensures personalized temperature settings for driver and passenger, while cruise control aids in relaxed highway driving. Wood interior trim adds a touch of classic luxury, complemented by a manual tilt-and-telescoping leather-wrapped steering wheel for optimal driver positioning. Eight-way power front seats with four-way power lumbar adjustment, along with heated front seats, ensure comfortable seating for long journeys. Reclining 60/40-split folding rear seats enhance versatility for passenger and cargo configurations. MB-Tex premium vinyl upholstery provides a durable and refined feel, with optional leather available for those seeking an even more luxurious touch.
Technologically, the 2015 ML 350 incorporates the COMAND electronics interface, navigated through a 7-inch color display, serving as the central hub for vehicle functions and entertainment. Mercedes’ mbrace2 communications system adds connected features including smartphone app integration, expanding vehicle functionality beyond the cabin. Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity enables hands-free calling and wireless music streaming, paired with an eight-speaker sound system including HD radio, a USB port, and an auxiliary audio jack for diverse media options. Safety is also paramount, with numerous standard safety features detailed separately.
The 2015 Mercedes-Benz ML 350 distinguishes itself from the ML250 primarily with standard 19-inch wheels, offering a slightly more assertive stance and potentially enhanced handling characteristics.
For both the ML250 and ML 350 models, the Premium 1 package represents a significant upgrade, adding a suite of desirable features. This package includes a rearview camera, crucial for safer and easier parking maneuvers, and power-folding exterior mirrors enhancing convenience in tight spaces. Auto-dimming rearview and driver-side mirrors reduce glare for improved nighttime driving visibility. Inside, the driver benefits from a 10-way power driver seat (with four-way power lumbar), a power tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, and driver memory functions, allowing for personalized comfort settings. Double sun visors offer enhanced sun protection, while a navigation system provides integrated route guidance. Voice command functionality allows for hands-free control of various vehicle systems. Practicality is further enhanced with a rear 115-volt household-style power outlet, satellite radio for expanded entertainment, and an iPod interface for seamless Apple device integration.
The Premium 1 package for the 2015 Mercedes-Benz ML-Class enhances interior comfort and technology with features like navigation and memory seats.
The Sport package for the 2015 Mercedes-Benz ML 350 and ML250 models focuses on visual and potentially slight performance enhancements, incorporating AMG exterior trim for a sportier aesthetic and offering a choice of 19- or 20-inch AMG wheels, further enhancing the vehicle’s road presence.
Stepping up to the ML400, the model builds upon the ML 350‘s standard equipment and the features within the Premium 1 package, introducing a more powerful turbocharged engine for increased performance. Keyless ignition and entry add convenience, while a 13-speaker Harman Kardon sound system elevates the audio experience. Leather seating surfaces provide a more luxurious interior ambiance, complemented by heated and cooled cupholders for year-round comfort, and multicolor interior ambient lighting allowing for personalized cabin atmosphere. The Lane Tracking package, incorporating blind spot and lane-departure warning systems, enhances safety and driver awareness.
Further customization of the 2015 Mercedes-Benz ML 350 and other models is possible through a variety of option packages and individual options. The Lighting package enhances visibility with adaptive bi-xenon headlights featuring automatic high-beam control. The Driver Assistance package adds advanced safety and convenience features like adaptive cruise control and an enhanced Lane Tracking package. Parking becomes simpler with the Parking Assist package, including front and rear parking sensors, an automated parallel parking system, and a surround-view parking camera. For those seeking enhanced off-road capability in the ML350 or ML400, the On/Off-Road package provides an adaptive suspension with air springs (Airmatic), a two-speed transfer case, a six-mode terrain selector, and underbody skid plates. Airmatic suspension is also available as a standalone option.
The Convenience package focuses on passenger comfort with heated and cooled cupholders, second-row sunshades, and a center armrest pass-through for rear passengers. The Interior Sport package offers front sport seats, unique seat trim (simulated suede on ML250/350, Napa leather on ML400), and a sport steering wheel for a more dynamic driving environment. Audiophiles can consider the high-end 14-speaker Bang & Olufsen BeoSound audio system for an exceptional in-car listening experience.
At the top of the range, the ML 63 AMG delivers ultimate performance with a turbocharged V8 engine, an AMG-tuned Airmatic suspension with adaptive stabilizer bars, exclusive 20-inch AMG wheels, special leather upholstery, sport seats with ventilation, and unique AMG styling cues inside and out. Many previously optional packages, such as Premium 1, Lighting, Lane Tracking, and Parking Assist, are standard on the AMG model, while the Driver Assistance package remains optional. The AMG Performance package further boosts engine output and top speed, adding red-painted brake calipers and a carbon-fiber engine cover. 21-inch AMG wheels and most other trims’ optional equipment are also available.
Individual options for the 2015 Mercedes-Benz ML 350 and across the M-Class range include the “Active Curve” handling enhancement system for improved cornering, a trailer hitch for towing needs, a panoramic sunroof for an expansive open-air feel, running boards for easier entry and exit, keyless ignition and entry for added convenience, three-zone climate control for enhanced rear passenger comfort, “multicontour” front seats with adjustable bolsters and massage functions for ultimate front seat comfort, ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, a heated steering wheel, a dual-screen rear-seat entertainment system for rear passengers, enhanced iPhone connectivity controls (Drive Kit Plus), and a Splitview display for the COMAND system allowing different images for driver and passenger.
In conclusion, the 2015 Mercedes-Benz ML 350 provides a well-rounded luxury SUV experience, offering a strong foundation of standard features and a wide array of customization options through packages and individual selections, catering to diverse preferences and needs within the discerning SUV market.
