Which is better between the BMW X5 35D and Mercedes ML 350D

Hi Paul, I am planning to buy a new SUV and I am looking at two alternatives both 2015 models: the BMW X5 35D and the Mercedes Benz M Class ML350 diesel Bluetec. Kindly advise on the pros and cons of each alternative. Sam

Hello Sam, the 2015 BMW X5 35 D and Mercedes Benz ML 350 TD are fierce competitors standing on the same podium. Their exterior design cues suggest that both brands have ventured into the future but maintain their tradition of superior luxury and performance.

Exterior: The 2015 BMW X5 looks bigger and brutish on the outside but is softer and more luxurious on the inside. The Mercedes Benz ML350 is well crafted to discreetly show a more aggressive front end looks neatly seating on sharper curves and bigger air dams.
Interior: Both SUVS have quieter cabins that provide world class luxury and comfort features coupled with modern electronic convenience features and gadgets.

Performance and fuel economy: BMW X5’s 3.0 litre twin turbo engine belts out an exciting 300 HP which mates well with its Econo pro fast upshifting 8 speed automatic transmission to provide excellent acceleration and fuel economy. Mercedes ML350’s bi turbo engine responds with 302 HP and uses its 7 speed automatic transmission with BlueTec technology to guarantee prompt AMG acceleration, excellent fuel economy and reduced exhaust emission.

On road handling, driver aids and safety: Both SUVs have good on road manners thanks to the stability control systems and array of electronic driver aids. BMW’s dynamic performance control, adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitor, automatic emergency brake, active lane control and impressive traffic jam assistant combine to give sheer driving pleasure. Mercedes Benz distronic plus adaptive radar, lane keeping assist and blind spot assist, collision prevention assist combine to make your driving safe and comfortable.

The safety ratings of BMW X5 and Mercedes ML are impressive. The 2015 BMW X5 has a five star rating from the NCAP (New Car Assessment Programme) while the Mercedes ML boasts five star rating from US NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) and good crash test ratings from IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety).

Off road capability: BMW X5 and Mercedes Benz ML are equipped with a reasonable off road capability often under utilised because motorists drive these cars on road most of the time. BMW’s all-wheel drive X Drive system apportions power to all wheels to keep you going when you are driving on wet or slippery off road terrain.

Mercedes ML’s versatile suspension works well with the 4Matic and 4ETS to distribute torque between the four wheels and allow you to drive off road on a slippery suburb or countryside farm road.

Maintenance and reliability: Mercedes has a strong after sales maintenance and parts support both with the main dealer and independents. BMW X5 aftersales dealer maintenance and parts support is readily available with a few independents providing readily available but more costly parts.