Good point Kuan. Even compared to 2001, the 2002 ML is 200 lbs heavier. Plus its 2.2 inches longer, has a turning radius of 39 ft as compared to 37 ft for 2001, plus has 17 inch wheels instead of 16, plus has 8.7 inches ground clearance instead of 8.4 (the Coeff of drag is still 0.39 though). Plus the 2002 model is ULEV, while 2001 and before were LEV. Could these factors put together explain the lower fuel economy? Heck, 15/19 is not good at all for a 3.2 V6. Why is this beast putting on so much weight - what are we gaining - is it just cosmetic, or something structural? And what's it doing to the pickup?

As a soon to be ML owner, these things bother me a bit!!