Driver's Log.(News)(Mercedes-Benz ML500)(Product/Service Evaluation)

2004 Mercedes-Benz ML500

Date in fleet: Jan. 21-Feb. 4 As-tested price: $52,160 Powertrain: 5.0-liter V8; 4wd, five-speed automatic Output: 288 hp @ 5600 rpm, 325 lb-ft @ 2700-4250 rpm Curb weight: 4874 pounds MPG (EPA estimate/ AW observed): 15.21/14.05

HART: The gray in the old ML's beard is showing through the Grecian Formula. This thing needs a makeover, from its boxy exterior shape to its old-looking interior. Mercedes-Benz has much better interiors today-take the E-Class, for instance-and going from the E to the ML is like taking a couple of steps backward. I know a redesign is in the works for the ML, but it can't come soon enough for me.

The V8 in this is the best part of the truck. The power comes on strong whenever you need it. The seats are very supportive and quite comfortable, and that's a good thing because overall, the ride is pretty truck-like. There's a good amount of body roll, and in the gale-force winds on my drive in I was pushed all over the road. I had to leave my double latte in the cupholder (another item needing an update) and keep both hands on the wheel just to keep this thing pointed in the right direction. That's almost un-American.

While I don't always like steering wheel-mounted controls, this is a truck that really needs it. To tune the radio or adjust the volume, you need quite a reach, and because of the small controls on the radio, you need to take your eyes off the road to do it. Not the best design.

This is a competent and comfortable truck, but the playing field in the rarefied air of the $50,000 sport/ute game is pretty crowded. For that kind of cash, there's a handful of newer (nicer?) luxury sport/utility vehicles from which to choose, including the BMW X5, Infiniti QX56, Cadillac Escalade, Lincoln Navigator and Lexus GX 470, just to name a few (the last four competitors all have third-row seats, too). Until Mercedes updates the ML, whoever buys one must really need to have that three-pointed star in their garage.

MANDEL: There is some serious old-think going on at Mercedes, and it is not to this vehicle's benefit. If the company doesn't come out with a replacement for the ML soon- and have a truck-model lineup replacement strategy in its back pocket-then it is going to be ...