The Mercedes-Benz M-Class (W164), particularly the facelifted version introduced in 2008, represented a significant step forward for the German automaker in the burgeoning mid-size luxury SUV segment. The ML 350 CDI 4MATIC, powered by a 3.0-liter V6 turbodiesel engine producing 224 horsepower and paired with a 7G-TRONIC automatic transmission, was a key variant offered from May 2009 to February 2010. This model aimed to balance fuel efficiency, respectable performance, and the all-weather capability expected of a Mercedes-Benz SUV, primarily targeting European and increasingly, North American buyers seeking a premium diesel option.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | M-Class |
| Generation | M-Class (W164, facelift 2008) |
| Type (Engine) | ML 350 CDI V6 (224 Hp) 4MATIC 7G-TRONIC |
| Start of production | May, 2009 |
| End of production | February, 2010 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 10.8-12 l/100 km (21.8 – 19.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 7.4-8 l/100 km (31.8 – 29.4 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 8.9-9.5 l/100 km (26.4 – 24.8 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 235-250 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 215 km/h (133.59 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.4 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.1 kg/Nm |
| Power | 224 Hp @ 3800 rpm |
| Torque | 510 Nm @ 1600-2800 rpm (376.16 lb.-ft. @ 1600-2800 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | OM 642.940 |
| Engine displacement | 2987 cm3 (182.28 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 83 mm (3.27 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92 mm (3.62 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 17.7:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 8.5 l (8.98 US qt | 7.48 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 9.5 l (10.04 US qt | 8.36 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2110 kg (4651.75 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2830 kg (6239.08 lbs.) |
| Max load | 720 kg (1587.33 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 833 l (29.42 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2050 l (72.4 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 95 l (25.1 US gal | 20.9 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load (braked) | 3500 kg (7716.18 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load (unbraked) | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 4781 mm (188.23 in.) |
| Width | 1911 mm (75.24 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2124 mm (83.62 in.) |
| Height | 1815 mm (71.46 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2915 mm (114.76 in.) |
| Front track | 1627 mm (64.06 in.) |
| Rear track | 1629 mm (64.13 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 210 mm (8.27 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.34 |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.6 m (38.06 ft.) |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension, Transverse stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission G-TRONIC |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the ML 350 CDI is the OM 642.940 3.0-liter V6 diesel engine. This engine, a mainstay of Mercedes-Benz’s diesel offerings, utilizes a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. The engine features a single turbocharger with an intercooler, boosting power and torque while improving efficiency. The DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft) valvetrain, with four valves per cylinder, further enhances breathing and performance. The 7G-TRONIC automatic transmission, a seven-speed unit, was a key technological feature. It offered smooth, quick shifts and contributed to improved fuel economy compared to older automatic transmissions. The transmission was electronically controlled and adapted to driving style, providing both comfort and responsiveness.
Driving Characteristics
The ML 350 CDI 4MATIC offered a comfortable and capable driving experience. While not a sports SUV, the 224 horsepower and substantial 376 lb-ft of torque provided adequate acceleration, with a 0-60 mph time of around 8.2 seconds. The 7G-TRONIC transmission was well-matched to the engine, providing smooth upshifts and downshifts. Compared to the higher-output ML 320 CDI or the gasoline-powered ML 350, the ML 350 CDI prioritized fuel economy and relaxed cruising. The automatic transmission, while convenient, did slightly diminish the feeling of direct control offered by the available manual transmission options in other M-Class variants. The 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system provided excellent traction in various conditions, making it a suitable vehicle for inclement weather and light off-road use.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The ML 350 CDI 4MATIC typically came well-equipped as standard. Features included leather upholstery, dual-zone automatic climate control, a premium audio system, power-adjustable front seats with memory function, and a sunroof. Safety features were comprehensive, including multiple airbags, anti-lock brakes (ABS), electronic stability control (ESP), and traction control. Optional extras included navigation system, rear-seat entertainment, parking assist, and upgraded wheel designs. The interior design was typical of Mercedes-Benz, emphasizing luxury and refinement with high-quality materials and a well-laid-out dashboard.
Chassis & Braking
The W164 M-Class featured a robust chassis with a double wishbone front suspension and an independent multi-link rear suspension. Stabilizer bars were fitted front and rear to reduce body roll during cornering. The braking system consisted of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, providing ample stopping power. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and ESP (Electronic Stability Program) were standard, enhancing safety and control. The suspension was tuned for comfort, providing a smooth ride over various road surfaces.
Market Reception & Comparison
The ML 350 CDI 4MATIC was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and refined interior. However, some reviewers noted that its acceleration was not as brisk as some of its competitors, particularly the higher-performance gasoline-powered SUVs. Compared to the ML 320 CDI, the ML 350 CDI offered a slight power increase and improved refinement. Against the ML 350 gasoline variant, the CDI offered significantly better fuel economy but at the cost of some outright performance. The diesel engine’s higher initial cost was often offset by lower running costs due to its superior fuel efficiency.
Legacy
The OM 642 engine family, including the version found in the ML 350 CDI, has proven to be remarkably durable and reliable. While diesel engines generally require more diligent maintenance than their gasoline counterparts, these engines are known for their longevity when properly cared for. In the used car market, the W164 ML 350 CDI 4MATIC remains a popular choice for buyers seeking a capable, comfortable, and fuel-efficient luxury SUV. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential for diesel particulate filter (DPF) issues and ensure that the vehicle has been regularly serviced. The ML 350 CDI represents a significant step in Mercedes-Benz’s development of diesel-powered SUVs, offering a compelling blend of luxury, performance, and efficiency.
