Perhaps not what you want to hear but for 15K I would consider the choice of buying a minivan. My ML is great for quick trips and moving 4 people in a pinch but moving a family is not a great fit for the ML regardless of seating. You can pick up a late edition minivan from Carmax with a factory warranty still active for around 15K and your passangers will thank you. I have a 2000 Pontiac Montana that has had only a fan switch failure to date. My ML has gone through $2500+ worth of warranty work to date. The ML is a nice ride but only in certain applications and for owners who can absorb some heavy repair bills.