I just drove a new ML320 at the MB Dealer's in Dallas, following up a free ride promo they mailed to Mercedes owners. It is a very impressive car, totally redesigned, more power from the V6 (268 HP I believe) and all the interior features are very well done. It has a different frame, seat push down system in the rear and many other niceties. For $45K list price, it is a very nice auto.
The V8 is still available also, but who really needs it -- with a 268HP V6, that gets much better gas mileage?!?! I would recommend that anyone considering a new SUV purchase look at this car. Also saw a Maybach for the first time at the dealer's; a very impressive car for $267K ... not planning to buy that one at this time tho'. The sales rep said they have sold three of them so far.

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Ben Harrison Carter
1999 Mercedes ML320 87K
1992 Mercedes 300CE 89K
1995 Corvette 29K -- Sold Dec 09
1989 Mercedes 420SEL 99K -- (Sold 4/08)
1968 Mercedes 230S (106K) (Sold 9/06))
1976 Mercedes 450SEL 130K (Just sold - 06)
1961 Mercedes 220Sb (sold years ago)

They have the McLaren SLR in the New York Showroom window with both gullwing doors open as well as the Maybach which is across the street from the Lambourghini and Ferrari Showroom. Very testosterone inducing walk down that block. Oh yes and a new ML which is looking a little Japanese to me.