Which SUV to buy?
11-17-14, 09:35 AM
#91
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11-19-14, 05:02 AM
#92
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I wanted to get your thoughts on the MB ML350, It gets expensive pretty quickly which is with any german car actually, but I just want to make sure I haven't left anything that's worth considering.
The NX size may be good, but I have to see it in person, also don't like the styling so much, except in the F-sport appearance.
The NX size may be good, but I have to see it in person, also don't like the styling so much, except in the F-sport appearance.
11-19-14, 06:08 AM
#93
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ml350 is a very nice vehicle. 
if you get one used, get an extended warranty. 
if you get one used, get an extended warranty.
11-19-14, 07:23 AM
#94
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Check with Club Lexus poster JT4 in the RX forums. As I recall, he bought an RX350 F Sport after owning an ML350. He is a helpful poster and would be able to define the strengths and weaknesses of the ML.
11-20-14, 11:23 AM
#95
Lexus Test Driver
Tin369 in response to your PM I would be happy to provide you with my comparison. We turned in a 2012 ML350 approx 7 weeks ago for an RX F-Sport.
I see that besides the ML you were also considering the 3G MDX, so were me and my wife. So I can give you my opinion on that too being a long Acura owner, TL and two MDX’s.
My two previous (2005 and 2008) MDX’s were great vehicles, we actually had the Acura’s before giving the ML’s a try. Besides regular maintenance there were only a few minor issues so it was a no brainer to consider the 3G MDX.
After spending time on the MDX forums and reading about all the problems some were having it made me concerned. But I wasn’t going to let that discourage me so I called my dealer and set up an extended test drive.
We test drove a 2015 SH-AWD Tech with approx 500 miles on it. There was a pronounced rattle from the passenger top side of the dash. There was a vibration from the center console area and at about 50 MPH there was a lot of wind noise coming from the driver’s window. There was also a scratching type of noise whenever you turned the steering wheel. It was coming from the steering column as though the back of the steering wheel was rubbing on something.
I was shocked because my past 3 Acura’s were great solid vehicles. I know this was a demo but it only had 500 miles on it. So these issues in addition to my research told me to move on.
After owning two ML’s another wasn’t even on the list. We had a 2011 ML350 which was the worst vehicle we ever owned.. So bad in fact that 15-18 months in I finally got MBUSA to agree to a buyback but only if we agreed to go into a 2012 ML350. MB called it a substitution of collateral.
While the 2012 ML was much more refined than the 2011 ML IMO it is still no match in refinement and comfort when compared to the RX. The RX is quiet and smooth while the MB on the open road was as good as the RX, over NYC streets it creaked like crazy. Not as bad as the 2011 but certainly not what you would expect from MB. I found this to be kind of common since even the loaner ML350's and some GLK's creaked and rattled too.
And even though we have the F-Sport which of course has a stiffer suspension than a regular RX it still rides just as good as the ML did and is so much quieter and handles better.
But what really drove me nuts with both ML’s was the throttle lag. Once again the 2012 ML was better but anytime you would hit the gas there would ALWAYS be a 3 second pause as if the truck was asking you if were sure you wanted to go. Frustrating.
And lets not forget the service. Be prepared for MB to try to sell you the 2, 3 or 4 year service plans. These cover basic services and will save you some money over paying at time of service. But they don’t include brakes and in my experience with both ML’s you will be replacing brake pads starting around 16K miles +/-.
On the 2011 ML I think it was at approx 15K miles that the front and rear pads needed to be replaced, that was close to $700. When I asked why the brakes needed to be replaced so soon I was told its normal on the ML and that “These are heavy trucks that eat brakes”.
On the 2012 ML I had to replace only the rear pads at around 17K miles. Again, I was told this was normal. Plus, unless you can find a specialist shop no one wants to touch MB brakes.
By comparison since 2000 besides MB I have leased vehicles from Acura, Infiniti and Lexus. In 36 or 39 month leases, in the same type of driving the only other vehicle that needed brakes before I turned it in was the 2008 MDX (front pads @ 35K miles).. And I think part of this had to do with my oldest son just getting his license at the time so of course I’m sure he was hard on the brakes.
We have approx. 1,500 miles on the F-Sport and couldn't be happier. I know this is very early into ownership but for comparison purposes. The day after taking delivery of he 2011 ML (45 miles on it) I was back at the dealer because an electric issue was causing the headlights while set in "auto" to stay on all the time, day and night. With the 2012 a month after taking delivery the rear a/c vent broke off while I was cleaning/wiping the interior with a microfiber cloth.. Just can't make this stuff up..
Sorry for such a long post, but you asked for my feedback LOL.. Good luck with your decision.
JDR76 – thanks for the kind words.
I see that besides the ML you were also considering the 3G MDX, so were me and my wife. So I can give you my opinion on that too being a long Acura owner, TL and two MDX’s.
My two previous (2005 and 2008) MDX’s were great vehicles, we actually had the Acura’s before giving the ML’s a try. Besides regular maintenance there were only a few minor issues so it was a no brainer to consider the 3G MDX.
After spending time on the MDX forums and reading about all the problems some were having it made me concerned. But I wasn’t going to let that discourage me so I called my dealer and set up an extended test drive.
We test drove a 2015 SH-AWD Tech with approx 500 miles on it. There was a pronounced rattle from the passenger top side of the dash. There was a vibration from the center console area and at about 50 MPH there was a lot of wind noise coming from the driver’s window. There was also a scratching type of noise whenever you turned the steering wheel. It was coming from the steering column as though the back of the steering wheel was rubbing on something.
I was shocked because my past 3 Acura’s were great solid vehicles. I know this was a demo but it only had 500 miles on it. So these issues in addition to my research told me to move on.
After owning two ML’s another wasn’t even on the list. We had a 2011 ML350 which was the worst vehicle we ever owned.. So bad in fact that 15-18 months in I finally got MBUSA to agree to a buyback but only if we agreed to go into a 2012 ML350. MB called it a substitution of collateral.
While the 2012 ML was much more refined than the 2011 ML IMO it is still no match in refinement and comfort when compared to the RX. The RX is quiet and smooth while the MB on the open road was as good as the RX, over NYC streets it creaked like crazy. Not as bad as the 2011 but certainly not what you would expect from MB. I found this to be kind of common since even the loaner ML350's and some GLK's creaked and rattled too.
And even though we have the F-Sport which of course has a stiffer suspension than a regular RX it still rides just as good as the ML did and is so much quieter and handles better.
But what really drove me nuts with both ML’s was the throttle lag. Once again the 2012 ML was better but anytime you would hit the gas there would ALWAYS be a 3 second pause as if the truck was asking you if were sure you wanted to go. Frustrating.
And lets not forget the service. Be prepared for MB to try to sell you the 2, 3 or 4 year service plans. These cover basic services and will save you some money over paying at time of service. But they don’t include brakes and in my experience with both ML’s you will be replacing brake pads starting around 16K miles +/-.
On the 2011 ML I think it was at approx 15K miles that the front and rear pads needed to be replaced, that was close to $700. When I asked why the brakes needed to be replaced so soon I was told its normal on the ML and that “These are heavy trucks that eat brakes”.
On the 2012 ML I had to replace only the rear pads at around 17K miles. Again, I was told this was normal. Plus, unless you can find a specialist shop no one wants to touch MB brakes.
By comparison since 2000 besides MB I have leased vehicles from Acura, Infiniti and Lexus. In 36 or 39 month leases, in the same type of driving the only other vehicle that needed brakes before I turned it in was the 2008 MDX (front pads @ 35K miles).. And I think part of this had to do with my oldest son just getting his license at the time so of course I’m sure he was hard on the brakes.
We have approx. 1,500 miles on the F-Sport and couldn't be happier. I know this is very early into ownership but for comparison purposes. The day after taking delivery of he 2011 ML (45 miles on it) I was back at the dealer because an electric issue was causing the headlights while set in "auto" to stay on all the time, day and night. With the 2012 a month after taking delivery the rear a/c vent broke off while I was cleaning/wiping the interior with a microfiber cloth.. Just can't make this stuff up..
Sorry for such a long post, but you asked for my feedback LOL.. Good luck with your decision.
JDR76 – thanks for the kind words.
Last edited by JT4; 11-20-14 at 11:45 AM.
11-21-14, 06:03 AM
#96
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JT4 - thanks for providing a detailed view of your experience with the ML vs your current f-sport. I have still not decided which way to go, but even on the MB forum, some members suggested if reliability is of importance go with a lexus....haha
The other thing i kept hearing is that the ML350 is getting refaced next year and the RX will get a redesign, so maybe I should wait for that to come out, i am not sure yet.
One other comment that I saw in the MB forum was comparing the quietness of the MB to the lexus, someone said that the ML was much more quite than the lexus.
The other thing i kept hearing is that the ML350 is getting refaced next year and the RX will get a redesign, so maybe I should wait for that to come out, i am not sure yet.
One other comment that I saw in the MB forum was comparing the quietness of the MB to the lexus, someone said that the ML was much more quite than the lexus.
11-21-14, 06:32 AM
#97
Lexus Fanatic
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lots of redesigns coming... have you considered the coming '16 sorento, or even sedona? i went and sat in a '15 sedona and the interior is VERY nice. didn't drive it though but reviews say it's very quiet, decently responsive, etc.
11-21-14, 11:30 AM
#98
Lexus Test Driver
As crazy as you sound, I would back you up. I'm a huge fan of the Kia Optima SXL.
11-21-14, 06:43 PM
#99
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^^^ thanks. i think. 
test drove a cr-v ex-l today. very nice vehicle. wanted to test the top line touring but they don't have any locally.
i think. test drove a cr-v ex-l today. very nice vehicle.
wanted to test the top line touring but they don't have any locally.
11-22-14, 05:18 PM
#100
Lexus Test Driver
JT4 - thanks for providing a detailed view of your experience with the ML vs your current f-sport. I have still not decided which way to go, but even on the MB forum, some members suggested if reliability is of importance go with a lexus....haha
The other thing i kept hearing is that the ML350 is getting refaced next year and the RX will get a redesign, so maybe I should wait for that to come out, i am not sure yet.
One other comment that I saw in the MB forum was comparing the quietness of the MB to the lexus, someone said that the ML was much more quite than the lexus.
The other thing i kept hearing is that the ML350 is getting refaced next year and the RX will get a redesign, so maybe I should wait for that to come out, i am not sure yet.
One other comment that I saw in the MB forum was comparing the quietness of the MB to the lexus, someone said that the ML was much more quite than the lexus.
In regards to quietness I find the RX more quiet than both ML's we owned. My wife liked her ML but also thinks the RX is quieter.. She is the primary driver and is very happy with the RX..
In regards to reliability, Lexus not even close... Not sure if your planning to buy or lease, but IMO if you want to give the ML a try lease it.. If you're planning to buy, get the Lexus.
Good luck trying to decide..
11-22-14, 08:07 PM
#101
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12-02-14, 01:17 PM
#102
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I test drove the ML350 a couple days ago and found it very quiet. This time I went with an open mind and started to like the shifter in the steering column, I told myself that how often would I make seat adjustments, so the adjustments on the door is something i can live with. I liked how the steering gave feedback when crossing the yellow or white line, I liked the Blind spot monitoring and the seating position. It surely feels big when you drive this, it was a bummer that they did not let me drive it on the interstate to see how well it does in term of wind noise and just cruising.
The back seat is spacious and I would say even more than the rx350. I don't know why but i thought since i was at tend dealership I would test drive the GLK as well, what a difference although smaller engine this thing felt like it just wanted to go. The engine did make a lot of noise compared to the ML350 but it felt more peppy, whereas the ML350 felt big and lacked the peppiness. I guess its the same feeling i get when i test drove the RX350.
Within 30 minutes or so I was able to test drive the MDX, I could instantly feel the interior of the mdx inferior to the ML350 and to the RX350 as well. it has great features for the price and i would say drove pretty well, had good acceleration and turned well, but i found that there was a lot of wind noise. Both the RX350 and ML350 are getting a refresh next year, and the x350 is about $10,000 cheaper, the MDX is a great value, but i can't see myself driving it.
I don't know which one to get, then at the BMW bimmerfest forum I asked the X5 vs Ml350 question and as expected the ML350 got some bashing. The X5 would have been an option but it over my budget and there is very little to no discount from the dealers.
There are great deals to be had on the ML350 from what I have been reading and that is what is making it more appealing and never having owned a MB is another factor. But I must also be practical and think from all aspects before making the decision.
This will be our primary family car slash my daily commuter (60 miles each way). I also don't want to be driving the RX350 as to be honest is a very girly car (don't mean to offend anyone). My wife likes to drive sedans and she currently drive the 328i which next year we need to replace with another car, but don't know which one, maybe the lexus is250 or the 5 series, i think she wants to stay between these two brands.
Sorry for the long post.
The back seat is spacious and I would say even more than the rx350. I don't know why but i thought since i was at tend dealership I would test drive the GLK as well, what a difference although smaller engine this thing felt like it just wanted to go. The engine did make a lot of noise compared to the ML350 but it felt more peppy, whereas the ML350 felt big and lacked the peppiness. I guess its the same feeling i get when i test drove the RX350.
Within 30 minutes or so I was able to test drive the MDX, I could instantly feel the interior of the mdx inferior to the ML350 and to the RX350 as well. it has great features for the price and i would say drove pretty well, had good acceleration and turned well, but i found that there was a lot of wind noise. Both the RX350 and ML350 are getting a refresh next year, and the x350 is about $10,000 cheaper, the MDX is a great value, but i can't see myself driving it.
I don't know which one to get, then at the BMW bimmerfest forum I asked the X5 vs Ml350 question and as expected the ML350 got some bashing. The X5 would have been an option but it over my budget and there is very little to no discount from the dealers.
There are great deals to be had on the ML350 from what I have been reading and that is what is making it more appealing and never having owned a MB is another factor. But I must also be practical and think from all aspects before making the decision.
This will be our primary family car slash my daily commuter (60 miles each way). I also don't want to be driving the RX350 as to be honest is a very girly car (don't mean to offend anyone). My wife likes to drive sedans and she currently drive the 328i which next year we need to replace with another car, but don't know which one, maybe the lexus is250 or the 5 series, i think she wants to stay between these two brands.
Sorry for the long post.
12-02-14, 03:38 PM
#104
Lexus Fanatic
Originally Posted by tin369
I also don't want to be driving the RX350 as to be honest is a very girly car (don't mean to offend anyone).
Sorry for the long post.
12-02-14, 06:13 PM
#105
Lexus Test Driver
I for some reason feel the RX is the least manly. But the F Sport makes up for that. I am a huge fan of the RX F Sport. I don't like the ML because it's center stack looks really cheap and small. The RX has a weird center stack but it feels more refined. Keep in mind the RX isn't getting s refresh, it's a redesign. The ML is getting a refresh. I couldn't imagine the Grand Cherokee being any less reliable than the ML and it's probably the manliest of the 3. It's also getting a redesign for 2016. 2016 seems to be a big year for crossovers.
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